The nipple and areola are the two areas of the breast gathering the most attention
Deviations in nipples can result from hormonal or medical changes, or you can be born with them. The shape of the nipples and the areolas can be corrected surgically. Third nipples can be removed, and missing ones reconstructed. Operations done to this area can usually be done with local anesthesia.
Withdrawn nipple
One or both nipples can be naturally withdrawn, or it may happen with age. As the nipple withdraws, it “sinks”, and this often causes aesthetic and hygienic issues.
The nipple may be “pulled” outwards mechanically. However, if the situation is severe, the nipple cannot be pulled outwards as easily.
In rare cases in which the nipple has withdrawn with age, a tumor may be present in the mammary gland of the breast. If a previously normal nipple has rapidly withdrawn with age, the breasts should be imaged to overrule the possibility of a tumor – especially if the nipple leaks bodily fluid.
Treating a withdrawn nipple
A typical nipple withdrawal can be easily treated by an operation using local anesthesia. The procedure doesn’t require a lengthy sick leave.
During a consultation with a plastic surgeon, the severity of the situation is discussed and the best possible course of action to correct the withdrawn nipple is decided.
Nipple reconstruction
A nipple reconstruction is needed when the nipple has been lost, or it’s originally missing because of a developmental disorder. In most cases, a nipple reconstruction is needed after a breast reconstruction, typically after breast cancer.
The new nipple can be reconstructed in a local anesthesia procedure, in which a new nipple is built using and “rolling” the skin and tissue from the breast. The procedure leaves a small scar that is later covered when the areola is tattooed.
A nipple reconstruction doesn’t always require sick leave. However, skin-tight, suppressing clothing should be avoided for around five days after the procedure.
