Questions About Nipple Prominence

Irregular nipple prominence can be a major source of embarrassment for both men and women. When nipple aesthetics interfere with sexual arousal and enjoyment or cause reluctance to undress in front of a partner, it may be worthwhile to consider a surgical solution.

Below are some of the most common questions regarding nipple prominence, which will inform you about your options and aid in your decision of pursuing cosmetic surgery to change your nipple aesthetics.

What are the sources of nipple prominence?

Many factors can influence nipple development and growth, including:

· Genetics – Just like other aspects of our bodies, hereditary factors heavily influence nipple prominence.

· Breastfeeding – Occasionally breastfeeding can cause scarring of the milk ducts, which may lead to a women’s nipple retracting either before or after weaning

· Injury – Damaged scar tissue can result in nipple inversion

· Hormonal imbalance – Estrogen has a significant affect on breast tissue development

· Diseases – Breast and Mammary Duct Diseases can damage breast tissue and cause a nipple to invert

Who pursues surgical solutions for nipple prominence?

Both men and women are candidates for surgical solutions to nipple prominence. Generally, if your nipple shape is reducing your quality of life and is a source of embarrassment or self-consciousness, you should consult with a breast surgeon regarding options available to change your nipple aesthetics.

Do nipples change shape over time?

Yes. Many factors throughout our lives contribute to a change in nipple prominence. While most people only experience a mild change in nipple shape, occasionally shape change can be drastic.

What types of abnormal nipple prominence exist?

Numerous types of nipple prominence can be a source of embarrassment for men and women, including:

• Inverted nipple – When the nipple faces inward
  
• Shy nipple – Sometimes a nipple naturally turns inward, but forces can cause it to easily come out of its shell
  
• Puffy nipples
  
• Multiple nipples – Both men and women may experience multiple nipples on their breast
  

Are there non-surgical solutions I can try?

Yes. If your nipples are mildly inverted, you can try stimulating the nipple through ice in an attempt to bring it out. For women who wish to breastfeed and have inverted nipples, products, such as breast shells, exist.

What surgical solutions are available?

Experienced breast surgeons have numerous tools available to adjust your nipple prominence, including:

• Breast augmentation – Nipple prominence can be reduced or enlarged during breast augmentation surgery
  
• Liposuction – For men and women with excess breast tissue, liposuction can reduce nipple prominence