A nipple correction procedure and/or reconstruction surgery can provide a solution for women with inverted nipples or for women who have lost a nipple following a mastectomy.
There are a number of techniques that can be used to correct the problem including tissue and cartilage flaps, skin grafts, and tattooing. Nipple correction and/or reconstruction surgery can be performed alone or in combination with other breast surgery procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it right for me?
As a highly qualified plastic and cosmetic surgeon, Dr Vlad Milovic will determine whether you are a good candidate for nipple correction and/or reconstruction surgery. If you have inverted nipples or you have lost a nipple following a mastectomy, you’re a non-smoker (or prepared to give up smoking at least six weeks prior to and after your surgery), you’re mentally and physically healthy, and you understand the nipple correction/reconstruction surgical procedure you should qualify. Dr Milovic will discuss all options available with you, prior to your decision on nipple correction/reconstruction surgery.
Will I need anaesthesia?
Nipple correction/reconstruction can be performed as a day surgery procedure under local or twilight sedation anaesthesia, but when combined with other cosmetic surgery such as breast augmentation, the surgery is generally done under general anaesthesia. Dr Milovic will discuss these options with you.
Modern anaesthesia is safe and effective, but it does have some risks. Ask Dr Milovic and your Anaesthetist for more information. You can be assured that Dr Milovic will engage the services of a qualified Anaesthetist who is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and NZ College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) to perform your sedation or general anaesthesia.
Dr Milovic and/or your anaesthetist will ask you about your general health, all the medications you are taking or have taken, and any allergies you may have. Please make sure you have an up-to-date list before the surgery.
Will I have scarring?
There will always be scarring after any surgical procedure, and there can be no guarantee for a perfect outcome. Your healing process will also determine the outcome of scarring after surgery, but it is Dr Milovic’s objective to minimise the scarring as much as possible. After surgery, scars are typically reddish in colour but they should fade in time to a light pink. After a few months, scars usually become barely noticeable.
If scarring is a concern for you after surgery, Dr Milovic will provide you with a scar treatment plan to expedite the healing of your scars. There are several treatment options, including silicone gel and laser treatment.
Where will the surgery take place?
Dr Milovic will only perform your nipple correction/reconstruction surgery in safe, accredited operating facilities.
What is the recovery period after Nipple Correction/Reconstruction surgery?
You may be in pain for a few days after surgery; however, these symptoms are common and pain medication will help to reduce the discomfort. Discolouration and swelling of the breasts are to be expected. You can return to work within one to three days after surgery, but Dr Milovic recommends that you avoid vigorous activities for at least two weeks post-surgery.
You will be given post-surgery instructions to follow. If you have any doubts, please speak to Dr Milovic and/or his Practice Nurse
Will I be able to breastfeed after Nipple Correction/Reconstruction?
You will be unable to breastfeed after inverted nipple correction and this is because the milk ducts have been lengthened or divided during surgery. Dr Milovic will discuss your expectations and goals with you prior to your decision to have nipple correction/reconstruction surgery.
Can my nipples lose sensitivity?
This is possible, as some breast asymmetry surgical techniques involve incisions around the nipples. Nerves should regain their function – although the process is slow, and therefore, you should expect a period of at least two years before sensitivity returns to normal or near normal. If this does not happen within that time, sensitivity will most likely not return. You should understand and discuss these limitations with Dr Milovic before electing to have nipple correction or reconstruction surgery.