Nipple Refinement

What Are My Refinement Options?

Enlarged Nipples

One of the most common nipple conditions is known as nipple hypertrophy, or enlarged nipples. This may include long, asymmetrical or overly prominent nipples, and if this is the case, you may want to undergo a nipple reduction.

A nipple reduction can be performed alone or in conjunction with another procedure. Depending on what you choose, Dr. Terrasse will utilize either a local or general anesthetic, and begin by making a small incision at the center of your areola. After removing the right amount of excess skin and tissue, he will reshape your nipples into a smaller, more attractive shape. The process takes less than an hour, and any pain or discomfort will resolve within a few days. You will be able to see a difference immediately, but your final results won’t be visible for several months. You will have some scarring, but it will fade and is typically hidden in the border of the areola or in other skin creases.

Areolar Reduction

Sometimes, because of weight gain or pregnancy, the size of the areolae may become out of proportion to the other chest characteristics and be the source of embarrassment or concern. Whether is part of a breast lift procedure for women or in men, a gynecomastia reduction procedure, the diameter of the darker circle of skin surrounding the central nipple can be reduced. The incision (and resultant scar line) for this type of procedure is camouflaged at the junction of darker/lighter skin and generally lies hidden in an acceptable place and manner. This can be done under local anesthesia, but many, it is combined with a more extensive breast lift or removal of abnormal breast tissue in men that are performed under sedation or general anesthesia.

Nipple Reconstruction

If you undergo a mastectomy, you may be able to preserve your nipples, but that isn’t always the case. If you decide to pursue reconstruction surgery, either immediately after your mastectomy or later in a delayed situation, Dr. Terrasse can use one of several options for the creation of a nipple using a skin flap. The flaps are made using skin from your chest, and are contoured into a nipple shape and elevated from your reconstructed breast. To create an areola, you have the option of choosing a skin graft or a 3D tattoo to complete the natural look of your new breasts. In some cases, a 3D tattoo may be appropriate for the entire nipple areolar complex.

Nipple Refinement Candidates

If you are interested in nipple refinement surgery, then you are likely going to be a good candidate. There are very few preexisting conditions that would prevent you from having it performed, and luckily, they are few and far between. You should always have a positive attitude going into aesthetic surgery and only have the treatment performed to meet your own aesthetic goals, not someone else’s.

The best candidates are also those that have realistic expectations about what their nipple refinement surgery can achieve. If you come into the process with unrealistic goals, then you are going to be disappointed with your treatment no matter how successful it was. Do plenty of research beforehand so that you know exactly what you are getting into. We are happy to answer any questions you have about the process so that you are informed moving through the process.

Nipple Refinement Recovery

In most cases, the recovery for your nipple recovery will be similar regardless of what correction you undergo. The pain and discomfort will be at their peak in the first 48 hours after the procedure. Although considered to be very tolerable by most patients, over-the-counter and prescription medications may be available when necessary to help cope with the pain. By the third day, most of these side effects will subside.

You will still need to avoid strenuous activity for about two weeks after your procedure, but to be safe, always wait until cleared officially by Dr. Terrasse. This will prevent you from overdoing yourself and risking the integrity of your health or results.

The exception to this rule is if you are having 3D tattoos performed. In those cases, the recovery will be much less intense, with only mild redness and irritation developing for a few days.

Nipple Refinement Results

Your results are not only long-lasting, but they are also permanent. The tissue that is removed can never return and you will be able to enjoy your improved nipple appearance for years to come. You will not need to worry about follow-up surgery or maintenance in most cases. Sometimes, however, weight fluctuation can cause your breasts and nipples to change shape again. In those instances, you may need additional surgery to re-achieve your ideal nipple appearance.

Why Dr. Terrasse?

Dr. Terrasse has an eye for balance, proportion and style that he is able to keenly apply to his medical treatment. This is greatly to the benefit of his patients, who are happy to work with someone who understands how to approach things from the perspective of both aesthetic beauty and medical prowess.

He has been named “Top Doctor” by U.S. News and World Report and was also recognized by Make It Better Magazine, as well as features in numerous publications like ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, People Fitness, Child, Satisfaction, Crain’s Chicago Business, Chicago Social, Chicago Sun-Times and the Chicago Tribune.