Nipple Repair Surgery in Irvine, CA
Nipple repair surgery offers a discreet, highly customized solution for women and men who feel self-conscious about inverted, enlarged, puffy, or irregular nipples and areolas. By reshaping or reconstructing the nipple-areola complex, our surgeons help patients breast-feed comfortably, wear fitted clothing with confidence, and finally feel at ease with their appearance. Thousands choose this popular outpatient procedure each year for its immediate aesthetic impact, minimal downtime, and life-changing boost in confidence.
Board-certified plastic surgeons
Outpatient procedure under local anesthesia
Personalized surgical plans for every concern
Procedure Quick Facts:
Nipple repair surgery is a collection of delicate procedures that reshape, reduce, or reconstruct the nipple and areola to achieve balanced size, projection, and color. Depending on your concerns, our surgeons may remove excess tissue, tighten underlying structures, divide shortened milk ducts, or graft new tissue to restore a natural-looking nipple-areola complex. Performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, the surgery corrects concerns such as inversion, puffiness, discoloration, or absence of the nipple after mastectomy.
The procedure is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals. Techniques range from circumareolar incisions for size reduction to intricate duct release for inverted nipples and advanced flap methods for post-mastectomy reconstruction.
If you are dissatisfied with the appearance or function of your nipples, please get in touch with South Coast Plastic Surgery to set up a consultation. Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a surgical plan to deliver your desired look and feel. Imagine wearing any top without worry and breastfeeding without pain—nipple repair can transform your life experience.
Watch our videos to see real patient results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.
Outpatient procedure with local anesthesia
Customizable solutions for multiple nipple concerns
Rapid recovery—return to routine in days
Permanent enhancement of breast aesthetics and function
Areola Size Reduction
Through a circumareolar (donut) incision, excess pigmented tissue is removed and the remaining skin is tightened to create a smaller, more proportionate areola. Ideal for patients with overly large areolas often following pregnancy or weight fluctuations.
Puffy Nipple Correction
Thin areolar skin is reinforced and underlying tissue is tightened to eliminate protrusion. This quick outpatient technique restores a smooth breast contour.
Inverted Nipple Correction
Shortened milk ducts tethering the nipple inward are carefully released through a tiny incision at the nipple-areola junction, allowing natural projection. Suitable for congenital or acquired inversion grades I-III.
Nipple Reduction
Elongated or enlarged nipple tips are shortened and narrowed to better match breast proportions. Sutures are hidden along natural contours for minimal visible scarring.
Nipple Reconstruction Post-Mastectomy
Using local tissue flaps and, if desired, medical tattooing, a new nipple-areola complex is created after breast reconstruction. Brings completion to the restorative journey.
Areola Pigment Correction
Medical tattooing or skin grafting techniques address discoloration, bumps, or pock-marks for a smoother, even-toned areola.
Combination Nipple & Areola Repair
For patients with multiple concerns, a tailored blend of the above techniques is performed in one session to achieve comprehensive enhancement.
See real results from our patients
Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Ali Benyamein are recognized for their meticulous approach to nipple repair, blending artistic vision with advanced microsurgical techniques. Their compassionate care ensures every patient feels heard, respected, and thrilled with their results.
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Unmatched Specialized Experience
Our surgeons perform a high volume of nipple and areola procedures, allowing them to refine nuanced techniques that protect milk ducts, minimize scarring, and optimize projection.
Patient-Centric Planning
Every consultation begins with listening. We prioritize your lifestyle, comfort, and aesthetic ideals, then craft a plan that aligns with your vision—never a one-size-fits-all approach.
State-of-the-Art Accredited Facility
Procedures take place in our on-site AAAASF-accredited surgical suite, ensuring hospital-level safety combined with boutique privacy and personalized attention.
Comprehensive Support & Follow-Up
From same-day text access to your care team to detailed aftercare guides and scar-management protocols, we’re with you every step of your journey.
- Your aesthetic concerns and desired outcome
- Medical history and breast-feeding plans
- Examination of nipple and areola anatomy
- Surgical technique options
- Recovery timeline and activity restrictions
- Cost, financing, and scheduling
See Your Future Self
Ideal candidates are in good general health, have realistic expectations, and are bothered by inverted, enlarged, puffy, or absent nipples. Women planning future breastfeeding should discuss this with their surgeon to choose a duct-preserving technique when possible.
Non-smoker or willing to stop before surgery
Stable weight
No active breast infection or uncontrolled medical conditions
Desire for aesthetic or functional improvement
Realistic expectations about scars and healing
Completed breast development
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
Committed to following aftercare instructions
Positive outlook and specific goals
This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.
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Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation where we evaluate your nipple-areola complex, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explore all your options.
- Medical history review
- Physical breast examination
- Photographs for planning
- Discussion of anesthesia options
We utilize high-resolution imaging to map incision placement and store all information in your secure patient portal for easy access and ongoing communication.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Once you've decided to move forward, we'll prepare you for surgery day. You'll receive detailed pre-operative instructions, including:
- Medication adjustments
- Smoking cessation guidelines
- Lab work or medical clearance
- Arranging a ride home
- Comfortable clothing recommendations
- Aftercare supply checklist
The Nipple Repair Procedure
On the day of surgery, you’ll arrive at our private, accredited surgical suite. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure in our state-of-the-art, accredited operating room, where privacy, discretion, and personal care matter to us.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia with or without oral sedation is administered for your comfort
Incision
Small, strategically placed incisions are made at the nipple-areola junction
Tissue Reshaping
Excess tissue removed, ducts released, or flaps created depending on your needs
Suturing
Fine, dissolvable sutures are placed to secure the new shape
Recovery
A light dressing is applied, and you relax in recovery for brief monitoring before heading home
Our meticulous, duct-sparing techniques preserve sensation and, when possible, breastfeeding capability while ensuring virtually undetectable scars.
Nipple Repair Surgery - Immediate Recovery (First 24-72 Hours)
Expect mild swelling, bruising, or tingling that peaks within 48 hours. Most patients wear a soft, supportive bra and take prescribed oral pain relievers for comfort. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are avoided during this period.
Light drainage from incision sites
Temporary numbness or hypersensitivity
Shower permitted after 24 hours
Sleep on your back for the first week
Our team is available 24/7 for any questions and will check in with you the day after surgery.
Nipple Repair Surgery - Short-Term Recovery (Week 1-4)
You can expect to resume light activities within 2-3 days and can return to work within 1-3 days. Most patients follow this timeline:
Week 1 - 2
Resume gentle walkingWeek 2 - 3
Scar-care regimen beginsWeek 3 - 4:
Swelling starts to subsideWeek 4 - 6:
Noticeable improvement in nipple shape
Virtual or in-office follow-ups monitor healing and progression of sensation.
Nipple Repair Surgery - Long-Term Recovery & Final Results (Months 2-6+)
Complete recovery and healing take approximately 3-6 months. During this time:
Month 2 - 3
Month 3 - 6:
Long Term
We stand behind our results with an open-door policy—if you have any concerns, we’re here to help for years to come.
What kind of implants do we offer?
Potencial Risks Include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Loss of sensation
- Difficulty breast-feeding
- Poor scarring
- Asymmetry
- Recurrence of inversion
- Allergic reaction to materials
Reducing Your Risk
- Use meticulous, proven techniques
- Perform surgery in an accredited facility
- Provide detailed pre- and post-operative instructions
- Schedule multiple follow-up visits
- Remain available 24/7 for urgent concerns
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We will discuss all potential risks during your consultation and answer any questions you may have.
We offer flexible financing options to make your procedure more accessible, including:
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$3,500
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Pre-operative consultation and imaging
Surgical procedure at accredited facility
Anesthesia and monitoring
Post-operative care and follow-up visits
Surgical garments/supplies
24/7 emergency contact
Digital access to all consultation notes and medical records
Comprehensive warranty protection including 2 years medical complication coverage
Access to complete care platform with 24/7 support
Trusted by Our Community
4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County
Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.
N. Snoozzz
Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !
About the procedure
Is nipple repair surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during surgery. Most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, easily managed with oral pain medication.
Will I lose nipple sensation?
Temporary numbness is common, but sensation typically returns over several weeks to months. Our duct-sparing techniques aim to preserve nerve pathways as much as possible.
Can I breast-feed after inverted nipple correction?
Many patients can breast-feed successfully after surgery, especially when ducts are preserved. Discuss future breastfeeding plans with your surgeon during consultation.
What concerns can nipple repair address?
• Inverted nipples
• Enlarged or long nipples
• Puffy areolas
• Areola size reduction
• Discoloration or bumps
• Post-mastectomy reconstruction
Recovery & Results
How long is downtime after nipple repair?
Most patients return to normal daily activities within 1-3 days, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for about two weeks.
When will I see final results?
Initial improvements are immediate, but swelling subsides over several weeks. Final projection and scar maturation occur between three and six months.
Do I need to wear a special bra?
Yes, we recommend a soft, supportive bra for the first two weeks to minimize swelling and protect the surgical site.
When can I resume exercise?
Light walking is encouraged right away, but postpone heavy lifting or high-impact workouts for two to four weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
Safety & Risks
Can nipple inversion recur?
Recurrence is uncommon with proper technique, but severe inversions have a slightly higher risk. We provide guidance to minimize this possibility.
What are the main risks of nipple repair surgery?
Risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, sensation changes, and, rarely, difficulty breastfeeding.
How do you minimize infection risk?
We operate in a sterile, accredited facility, prescribe prophylactic antibiotics, and provide detailed wound-care instructions.
Are stitches dissolvable?
Yes, most sutures used are dissolvable and do not require removal, making recovery more comfortable.
Cost & Insurance
What if I’m unhappy with my results?
Revision surgery is rarely needed, but if concerns arise, our surgeons will discuss options and support you until you’re satisfied.
Is nipple repair surgery covered by insurance?
Most cosmetic nipple repairs are not covered, but post-mastectomy reconstruction may qualify. We can provide documentation for insurance review.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide low-monthly-payment plans.
Will I need to change my piercings?
We ask that you remove nipple piercings before surgery and avoid re-piercing until your surgeon confirms complete healing.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Care
How do I care for my scars?
Follow our scar-care protocol, which includes silicone sheets, gentle massage, and sun protection, to achieve the best cosmetic outcome.
Are results permanent?
Yes, results are long-lasting, although natural aging and weight changes can subtly alter breast appearance over time.
Still have questions?
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