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Nipple correction
A small procedure can make a visible difference. We correct inverted nipples, reduce the size of a nipple or areola and aim for a natural result that suits your chest.
Every nipple correction is different
The shape, size and position of the nipple and areola vary from person to person. During your consultation, we discuss what concerns you and which technique is most suitable.
Inverted nipple
A nipple that lies flat or turns inward may be congenital or caused by short connective-tissue bands and milk ducts. The surgeon releases the nipple so it can project further outward.
Areola reduction
A large, stretched or asymmetrical areola can be reduced. This may be performed as a standalone procedure or, where appropriate, together with a breast lift or breast reduction.
Nipple reduction
A long, wide or prominent nipple can be subtly reduced. The procedure is suitable for women and men and is tailored to the surrounding breast or chest.
Three grades
The mobility of the nipple gives the surgeon important information about the severity and the appropriate technique.
The nipple is easily brought outward and usually remains projected for some time.
The nipple can be brought outward but retracts again more quickly.
The nipple is difficult or impossible to bring outward; shortening and adhesions are usually more pronounced.
Is nipple correction right for you?
You may consider correction if the shape or position of your nipple makes you feel self-conscious, if clothing causes friction or if skin folds are difficult to keep clean and dry. A noticeable difference between both sides may also be a reason to seek advice.
The surgeon assesses not only the aesthetic concern but also its cause, your skin quality and your expectations. Complete symmetry can never be guaranteed; the aim is a natural improvement.
- Suitable for women and men
- Often a limited, local procedure
- Scars are positioned as discreetly as possible
- Can also be combined with another breast procedure
Has a nipple only recently become inverted, or do you have discharge, a lump, a sore or a skin change? Have this medically assessed first. An aesthetic consultation does not replace diagnostic evaluation.
How is nipple correction performed?
The exact technique depends on what is being corrected. Your surgeon will discuss the location of the scars, the type of anaesthesia and any potential effect on sensation and breastfeeding beforehand.
Consultation
We listen to your wishes, examine the nipple and discuss the achievable result.
Technique
The surgeon selects an approach to correct the inversion, nipple or areola.
Procedure
The correction is generally performed as day surgery. Practical details are included in your treatment plan.
Aftercare
You receive clear wound-care instructions and we monitor healing during follow-up appointments.
Releasing an inverted nipple
Shortened connective-tissue bands are released. Depending on the severity, the surgeon may create tissue support beneath the nipple to help maintain its new position.
Reducing the areola
A ring of skin is removed around the edge of the areola. The scar lies at the transition between pigmented and surrounding skin. Skin tension may cause the areola to stretch slightly again over time.
Reducing the nipple
For a long or wide nipple, a targeted amount of tissue is removed. The incision depends on the desired reduction in length, width or both.
When is areola correction alone insufficient?
If the breast itself is mainly sagging or the skin is significantly stretched, reducing the areola will not correct the underlying breast shape. A breast lift may then provide a more balanced and durable result. We discuss this openly during your consultation.
What do we discuss during your consultation?
A successful correction starts with the right diagnosis. We therefore look beyond the visible shape.
How long has the shape been this way?
Congenital inversion is different from a new change. Recent or one-sided inversion may require additional breast assessment first.
What exactly would you like to change?
We distinguish between the nipple itself, the areola and the position or shape of the entire breast. This prevents us from treating the wrong concern.
How important is breastfeeding to you?
Some techniques aim to preserve the milk ducts as much as possible; with severe inversion, this is not always possible or predictable.
Which factors affect healing?
Smoking, medication, previous breast surgery, scar formation and general health can all affect the treatment plan and recovery.
Recovery, scars and potential risks
Nipple correction is usually limited in scope, but it remains a surgical procedure. Your personal recovery advice may therefore differ from general guidelines.
Recovery
Swelling, tenderness, bruising and a tight sensation are normal at first. Protect the treated area from pressure and friction for as long as your surgeon advises.
Scars
Scars are usually located in or around the transition between the nipple and areola. They are initially visible and generally fade gradually, but never disappear completely.
Sensation
Nipple sensation may change temporarily or permanently. Both reduced and increased sensation are possible. This is discussed with you before the procedure.
Risks
Potential complications include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, asymmetry, noticeable scarring and recurrent nipple inversion.
Cost of nipple correction
After your consultation, you receive a personal quotation based on the selected technique and any combination with another procedure.
* Starting price including VAT. The final price depends on your treatment plan. Any exceptions to the VAT rule will be discussed with your doctor.
Discuss your future plans
During correction of an inverted nipple, milk ducts or surrounding structures may need to be released. This can affect the ability to breastfeed later.
Are you planning a future pregnancy or would you like to be able to breastfeed? Mention this during your consultation. The surgeon will explain which technique may be possible and what uncertainties remain.
Practical questions about nipple correction
Can an inverted nipple retract again?
This is possible. The risk depends on the severity of the inversion, the technique used and the healing process. Your surgeon will discuss your personal risk of recurrence.
Can both nipples be treated at the same time?
Often, yes. Even when one side requires more correction than the other, the surgeon can assess both sides to achieve the most balanced result possible.
Is nipple correction also suitable for men?
Yes. Men can also have a large nipple, wide areola or inverted nipple corrected. If breast tissue is present, a separate treatment for gynaecomastia may be more appropriate.
Can the procedure be combined with a breast lift or breast reduction?
In some cases, yes. During a breast lift or breast reduction, the position and shape of the areola are often adjusted already. The surgeon will assess whether combining procedures is appropriate and safe.
When will I see the final result?
The shape continues to change as swelling subsides and scars settle. During follow-up, your surgeon will assess your healing and explain when the result can be reliably evaluated.
Would you like to know what is possible for you?
During a personal consultation, we discuss your wishes, the appropriate technique and the result you can realistically expect.
Our locations
Consultations at three locations. Procedures take place at our clinic in Diest.
Not every treatment is available at every location. View available appointments.