Breast lift worries - what causes nipple flattening after this procedure?

Question

Hi, I am not going to post pictures. My breast lift with implants is scheduled for Sept 2022. I am concered with nipple flattening. I have noticed many bresst lift with implants have nipples flattening into the areola. What causes this? My nipples and areolas now look fantastic (just my breast tissue and fullness is the issue). How is nipple flattening preventable? Im getting 350-400cc implants. Thank you!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding nipple flattening after a breast lift. This is an uncommon occurrence after breast augmentation and a breast lift. I wouldn't necessarily worry too much. Ways to minimize it might include placing a suture at the base of the nipple to ensure projection. This technique is usually done for inverted nipples and not necessarily as a preventative way to maintain nipple projection. All in all, nipple flattening is rare after breast augmentation and mastopexy. Good luck. I hope this helps answer your question regarding nipple flattening after breast augmentation. 
If you have any more questions regarding the breast lift or mastopexy, capsular contracture, or breast implants in general, please contact my office.  Since your breast surgery requires a revision, which is more difficult than an initial breast lift, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of breast lifts. Do your research.  Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 breast lifts.  Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.  Good luck! Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of  the American Society of Bariatric  Plastic Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery,  and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sking2264
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

Nipple flattening after a breast lift procedure can occur due to various factors, some of which include:1. Tissue tension: During a breast lift (mastopexy), the breast tissue is reshaped and excess skin is removed to lift and reposition the breasts. In some cases, the tension applied to the breast tissue during the procedure can cause temporary flattening or distortion of the nipple. This is usually a result of swelling and tissue manipulation and may resolve as the healing process progresses.2. Edema (swelling): Swelling is a common occurrence after breast lift surgery and can affect the appearance of the nipples. Swelling in the breast tissue can put pressure on the nipples, causing them to appear flattened or distorted. As the swelling subsides over time, the nipples typically regain their normal shape.3. Surgical technique: The surgical technique used during a breast lift can influence the risk of nipple flattening. Surgeons employ various methods to reshape the breast tissue and reposition the nipples, and some techniques may carry a higher risk of temporary nipple distortion than others.4. Nerve compression: During the healing process, nerves in the breast tissue may become temporarily compressed or stretched, affecting nipple sensation and appearance. As nerve function returns to normal and tissue healing progresses, nipple flattening may resolve.5. Scar tissue formation: The formation of scar tissue around the incision sites can affect the flexibility and mobility of the breast tissue, potentially impacting nipple shape and projection. Scar tissue may soften and remodel over time, leading to improvement in nipple appearance.6. Individual variation: Each person's body responds differently to surgery, and factors such as skin elasticity, breast shape, and tissue characteristics can influence the outcome of a breast lift procedure, including nipple appearance.It's important to discuss any concerns about nipple flattening or changes in nipple appearance with your plastic surgeon. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation and help address any issues that may arise during the healing process. In many cases, nipple flattening after a breast lift is temporary and resolves as the tissues heal and settle into their new position. However, if you have persistent concerns or if there are signs of complications such as impaired blood flow or wound healing problems, it's essential to seek prompt medical attention for further evaluation and management.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Adding implants will stretch the breast tissue, including the areolae, and they can become larger. However, the nipples usually stay the same unless a very large implant is used.

Breast lift worries - what causes nipple flattening after this procedure?

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Answer: Nipples

Answer: Nipples

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Breast lift worries - what causes nipple flattening after this procedure?

Answers (4)

Answer: Nipples

Answer: Nipples

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.