Nipple reduction treats prominent/elongated (hypertrophic) nipples using small, targeted excisions to reduce height and/or width while maintaining natural contour. Techniques include circumferential “collar” skin excision, wedge/core reduction, amputation with secondary healing, and local flaps; choice depends on your anatomy and goals. A 2019 literature review (639 patients) found high satisfaction and low complication rates, with technique selection individualized.
Most isolated nipple reductions are short in-office procedures under local anesthesia; if combined with other breast surgery, they’re often done under general anesthesia. Typical wounds epithelialize in ~7–14 days.
After marking desired dimensions, your surgeon removes a small ring, wedge, or tip segment and reshapes the nipple with fine sutures (or lets a small tip wound contract/epithelialize in amputation techniques). Local anesthesia is typical for isolated cases; general if combined with lift/augmentation/reduction.
Adults in good health bothered by projection/size asymmetry from genetics, pregnancy, or aging. If you plan pregnancies soon, discuss timing given potential breastfeeding impact (see below).
Most patients maintain normal sensation, though temporary sensitivity changes are common; a minority report reduced sensation long-term in case series. Technique and concurrent procedures influence risk.
Evidence is limited. Reviews note few documented breastfeeding outcomes; techniques that preserve ducts (certain flaps/wedge variants) are preferred for patients who may lactate, while amputation-type reductions can disrupt ducts and may reduce milk transfer. If future breastfeeding is a priority, raise this at consult to guide technique or timing.
Generally low but include bleeding, infection, asymmetry/under- or over-correction, contour notching, widened scar, changes in sensation, and breastfeeding difficulties depending on technique. Selecting an experienced, board-certified surgeon lowers risk.
Nipple reduction changes the projecting centre; areola reduction decreases the pigmented circle’s diameter (often using a circular excision and purse-string closure). They can be done together or with a lift/augmentation.
A reasonable Canada-wide guide: ~C$1,500–$4,000+ depending on surgeon, facility, and whether it’s paired with other breast surgery. Your consultation provides an exact quote.
Yes—commonly done with areola reduction, breast lift, augmentation, gynecomastia surgery, or implant removal to balance proportions in one recovery when appropriate.
English English 
French
