Introduction
Nipple plastic surgery has gained significant popularity in New York City in recent years. Whether it's for cosmetic enhancement, reconstruction after breast surgery, or correcting various nipple - related issues, there are numerous hospitals and surgeons offering these services. In this article, we will delve into the details of nipple plastic surgery in New York City, explore some of the top facilities and surgeons, and discuss the different types of procedures available.
Importance of Nipple Plastic Surgery
The appearance and functionality of nipples play a crucial role in a person's self - image and overall well - being. For some, large, asymmetrical, or inverted nipples can cause self - consciousness and even impact their intimate relationships. In the case of breast cancer survivors who have undergone mastectomy, nipple reconstruction is an important step in the overall breast reconstruction process, helping them regain a sense of normalcy and body confidence.
Types of Nipple Plastic Surgery
Nipple Reconstruction
Nipple reconstruction is often performed as the final stage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy. It involves recreating a nipple on the reconstructed breast. Some of the common techniques used in nipple reconstruction include:
- Nipple reconstruction with surrounding skin: Surgeons raise skin flaps around the location of the new nipple on the reconstructed breast, make incisions to form the tissue into a nipple shape, and then fold and close the skin flaps to create a bump that grows into a nipple.
- Skin grafting for nipple reconstruction: A small piece of skin is harvested from another part of the body for the areola and nipple creation. This is ideal when there isn't enough tissue on the breasts to create a nipple mold.
- Medical tattooing: Three - dimensional nipple tattoos can reconstruct an areola. The tattoo artist inserts pigment into the breast skin to create a realistic image of a nipple and areola. It can be done after a nipple reconstruction or instead of the surgical procedure.
- Nipple sharing: If a mastectomy is performed on a single breast, part of the other nipple can be used to create a new one on the reconstructed breast. Medical tattooing then aids with the areola reconstruction.
Nipple Reduction
Nipple reduction can dramatically improve the appearance of large, disproportionate nipples and the surrounding areolas. The procedure involves the precise removal of tissue from the nipples, followed by a reshaping of the nipple to be less conspicuous. Areola reduction is a similar procedure, where an incision is made around the areola to remove tissue and reduce large or uneven areolas.
For example, Dr. Barry Weintraub, a top NYC breast surgeon, is expert at reducing the size of unattractive nipples and areolas to add symmetry and balance to the breasts. His nipple - reduction technique involves making a small incision to reduce nipple size in order to define the new perimeter of the nipple/areola area.
Inverted Nipple Correction
Inverted nipples may occur on one or both breasts and are the result of shortening or tightening of the ducts that run within the nipple. Plastic surgery to correct inverted nipples involves creating a small incision across the base of the nipple, releasing the duct contraction, and suturing the nipples in a normal, everted, or erect position.
Nipple inversion affects up to 10% of women and can lead to feelings of embarrassment, self - consciousness, and functional challenges such as difficulties in breastfeeding or diminished erogenous sensation.
Accessory Nipple Removal
Some people have extra nipples and areolas, known as “accessory nipples” or “supernumerary nipples”. They are usually seen on the breasts, torso, or in the underarm area. Removal of accessory breast tissue involves a skin incision around the pigmented nipple and areola, including any underlying breast tissue. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia alone and results in permanent removal of the excess tissues.
Top Surgeons and Hospitals for Nipple Plastic Surgery in New York City
Surgeons
According to Healthgrades, there are many excellent doctors who perform nipple reconstruction in New York. Here are some of them:
| Surgeon Name | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Philip Torina, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 5 E 98th St #2, New York, NY 10029 |
| Dr. David Otterburn, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 525 East 68th street starr 8, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Eloise Chapman - Davis, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 525 East 68th street suite J - 130, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 51 West 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 |
| Dr. Heather Yeo, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 1283 York avenue 9th floor, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Adam R. Kolker, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City, also offers nipple - related procedures. He is highly experienced in breast - related surgeries and has been featured in many prestigious lists such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors.
Hospitals and Clinics
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, staffed with board - certified plastic surgeons, are top experts in the highly specialized field of breast reconstruction surgery including nipple reconstruction. They work closely with patients and their insurance companies to ensure patients receive the full benefits to which they are entitled according to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998.
NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital and its affiliated medical colleges (Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and Weill Cornell Medical College) have breast centers that are fully accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Surgeons at these centers are at the forefront of breast - related surgeries, including nipple - sparing mastectomy, which helps improve the aesthetic outcome of reconstructive surgery.
Preparing for Nipple Plastic Surgery
Consultation
Before undergoing nipple plastic surgery, it is essential to have a comprehensive consultation with the surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will take your medical history, listen to your concerns and goals, and perform a physical examination. They will also discuss the different surgical options available, the expected results, and the potential risks and complications.
For example, if you are considering nipple reduction, the surgeon will check if you are a suitable candidate. The best candidates for nipple reduction surgery are well - balanced, in good general health, and possess realistic expectations. You should be highly motivated to make the change, have the ability to pause your daily responsibilities for the procedure, and have the financial means to afford the elective cosmetic surgery.
Medical Clearance
You will need to obtain medical clearance from your family physician. This helps to ensure that you are in good enough health to undergo the surgery. The doctor may also request some diagnostic tests, such as blood work or a mammogram, depending on your age and medical history.
Lifestyle Changes
Your surgeon will likely advise you to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. This may include avoiding smoking, as it can impede the healing process. You may also be asked to discontinue certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin and some herbal supplements.
The Surgery Process
Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia used for nipple plastic surgery depends on the specific procedure. For some minor procedures like accessory nipple removal or certain cases of inverted nipple correction, local anesthesia may be sufficient. This means you will be awake during the procedure but the area will be numbed. For more complex procedures, such as nipple reconstruction in combination with other breast surgeries, general anesthesia may be required, which will put you to sleep during the operation.
Surgical Procedure
The actual surgical procedure will vary depending on the type of nipple plastic surgery. For nipple reconstruction, the surgeon will use one of the techniques mentioned earlier to create or restore the nipple. In nipple reduction, the surgeon will carefully remove the excess tissue and reshape the nipple. The length of the surgery can range from as little as 15 minutes for a simple procedure to over an hour for a more complex reconstruction.
Post - Procedure Monitoring
After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area. If you had general anesthesia, you will need to rest for a while before being released. The doctor will check your vital signs and make sure there are no immediate complications. You will be given specific post - operative care instructions, which may include how to care for the surgical site, what medications to take, and when to come in for follow - up appointments.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Recovery
You can expect some pain, numbness, and soreness around the incisions on your breasts for a week or two. Your doctor can provide pain medication or anti - inflammatory drugs as needed to ease your short - term discomfort. A nipple shield or a protective dressing will be used to promote fast and effective healing. You should keep the dressing in place and clean for seven to 10 days or until you are directed to remove it.
Long - Term Recovery
The reconstructed area takes about 10 days to heal fully. During this time, you should avoid tight bras and clothing over your nipple to ensure it doesn’t change shape or get infected. You can take a shower two days after your surgery, but avoid washing the surgery area. Heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks until fully healed to avoid damaging the sutures.
Depending on the nature of your occupation, you may be able to return to work the next day, but you should avoid any strenuous tasks or heavy lifting. Your reconstructed nipples may look red and swollen with visible scarring initially, but they will gradually heal and settle into their new shape.
Cost of Nipple Plastic Surgery
The cost of nipple plastic surgery can vary widely depending on several factors. These include the type of surgery technique used, the expertise of the surgeon, the location of the surgery, and whether multiple breast procedures are being combined. For example, nipple reconstruction after mastectomy may be covered by insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm.
For non - covered procedures like cosmetic nipple reduction or accessory nipple removal, the cost will typically depend on the complexity of the procedure and the fees charged by the surgeon and the facility.
Conclusion
Nipple plastic surgery in New York City offers a range of options for those looking to improve the appearance or functionality of their nipples. Whether it's for cosmetic reasons or as part of a breast reconstruction process, there are highly skilled surgeons and well - equipped facilities available. By understanding the different types of procedures, preparing adequately for the surgery, and following the post - operative care instructions, patients can achieve the desired results and improve their self - confidence and quality of life.
If you are considering nipple plastic surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon in New York City. Take the time to research your options, ask questions, and make an informed decision. Don't let concerns about your nipples hold you back from feeling your best. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about nipple plastic surgery.
