Nipple correction surgery is a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure designed to address inverted, asymmetrical, or overly large nipples. For many individuals, this procedure can enhance self-confidence and comfort.
However, if you're considering nipple correction but plan to breastfeed in the future, you may have concerns about how the surgery might affect lactation.
Dr. Gordon Sasaki is the founder and director of Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center in Pasadena, California. Dr. Sasaki and his team are nationally recognized for their commitment to patient-focused services that provide highly effective solutions for numerous cosmetic concerns, including nipple size, shape, and appearance.
Read more from the Sasaki team regarding nipple correction surgery and whether it might interfere with lactation.
Nipple correction surgery primarily targets conditions such as:
When performed alone, nipple correction is typically done under local anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery time.
However, to accomplish your aesthetic goals, Dr. Sasaki may recommend combining nipple correction with other procedures, such as a breast lift or augmentation. He discusses your expectations and options in detail during your initial evaluation.
The goal is to create a more balanced, natural, and aesthetically pleasing breast profile.
One of the biggest concerns for individuals who undergo nipple correction is whether they will still be able to breastfeed.
Female breast anatomy includes three tissue types: fatty, connective, and glandular. The glandular tissue produces milk that’s carried through ducts to the nipples.
Fatty tissue determines breast size and volume. The fibrous connective tissue holds the glandular and fatty tissue in place and supports breast shape and lift.
Much of the concern about breastfeeding after nipple correction involves the position of the milk glands and ducts, which encircle the areolar and nipple. The nipple contains nine ducts that supply milk during lactation.
Thus, the answer depends on several factors, including what type of nipple correction you require and the technique used during the surgery.
You can rely on the Sasaki team for a frank discussion about expectations after any cosmetic procedure, including nipple correction or reconstruction.
For instance, some nipple correction techniques preserve the milk ducts, allowing for normal breastfeeding in the future. If your surgeon takes care to avoid severing the ducts, your ability to breastfeed may remain intact.
In cases where inverted nipples are corrected by cutting fibrous bands, the procedure may risk damaging milk ducts, which can interfere with milk flow. However, some modern techniques focus on preserving as much of the milk duct system as possible.
If the procedure involves removing excessive tissue, there’s a possibility that some milk ducts may be affected, but partial functionality may remain.
If you’re planning to breastfeed in the future, it’s crucial to communicate this to Dr. Sasaki beforehand. Nipple correction surgery can be life-changing for those struggling with nipple-related concerns, but it’s essential to weigh the benefits if you plan to breastfeed.
Schedule a visit at Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center today for a comprehensive evaluation and trustworthy discussion regarding your treatment options.
