Give Steven Teitelbaum MD a phone call at (310) 315-1121

What Is a Nipple Inversion Correction?

A nipple inversion correction is a surgical procedure that reverses an inverted or flattened nipple, restoring a more traditional everted shape. Nipple inversions are typically caused by a lack of volume or excess loose tissue along the breast. Here, the areola collapses back into an empty breast, and the nipple lacks the necessary tissue to support it.

Inverted nipples range in severity from minor flattening to severe inversions pulled back by shortened milk ducts or nerves. This is a more complex procedure and can affect both nipple sensation and your ability to breastfeed post-op. Nipple inversions are often corrected in a single procedure, but they can be incorporated into a breast augmentation or revision.

What Is Nipple Reduction Surgery?

Nipple reduction surgery is used to carefully reduce the size of the nipple, decreasing its projection from the breast. Because there’s no standard nipple length, the procedure is entirely directed by the patient’s aesthetic preferences. Many patients pursue a nipple reduction to resolve highly visible or drooping nipples when wearing certain clothing.

This procedure uses a small incision at the base of the nipple to access and remove excess tissue. Your nipple sensation will not be affected by the surgery. Most patients opt to include nipple reduction with a breast augmentation, though it can be done as a solo surgery.

woman pulling her dress strap up

Restoring a Natural-Looking Nipple

Though the nipples are small, they have a major impact on your confidence and comfort with your breasts. Many patients come to Dr. Teitelbaum seeking the following benefits:

  • Improved nipple projection and symmetry
  • Better proportion between the nipple and breast
  • Reduced nipple visibility through clothing
  • More balanced, youthful breast appearance
  • Increased confidence

Are You a Candidate for a Nipple Inversion or Reduction?

Ideal candidates for a nipple inversion or reduction are healthy, non-smoking adults who are unhappy with the direction or projection of their nipples. Because internal structures can impact the appearance and function of your nipples, a thorough examination by Dr. Teitelbaum will confirm your candidacy and ensure the procedure is safe.

Before & After Inverted Nipple

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media

Adult content

I am 18+ years old

Hub patient media
View Gallery
Banner media

Why Choose Dr. Teitelbaum?

Over the 30+ years of his career, Dr. Teitelbaum has treated hundreds, if not thousands, of patients with nipple inversions and reductions, both in individual procedures and as part of a breast augmentation or revision. As one of the leading plastic surgeons in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and beyond, his focus remains on helping patients achieve balanced, beautiful results that look natural and aligned with their features.

Academic and Clinical Excellence

Dr. Teitelbaum received his doctorate from the UCLA School of Medicine and completed his residency at Harvard University, earning him dual board certifications in General Surgery and Plastic Surgery. In addition to treating patients at his private practice, he also serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the UCLA School of Medicine. In line with his commitment to uplifting the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Teitelbaum has given lectures on five continents, sharing his advanced techniques with peers and students alike. His research has been published in peer-reviewed journals like Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and he’s earned memberships and leadership positions in the following prestigious organizations:

  • Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation, 2016-2017 President
  • California Society of Plastic Surgeons, Treasurer and Legislative Committee Chair
  • Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation, Board Member

Putting Patients First

Dr. Teitelbaum and his team lead with integrity, trust, and transparency every step of the way. Their goal is to deliver your ideal results and restore your confidence without any trendy treatments or gimmicks. Every team member is held to the highest safety and quality standards in the industry, ensuring every procedure at Dr. Teitelbaum’s exclusive, accredited surgical center is safe and satisfactory.

Schedule A Consultation

(310) 315-1121 Contact Us
Contact us media

Your Confidential Consultation

Dr. Teitelbaum understands that the appearance of the nipples can be a sensitive topic, so your one-on-one consultation will be conducted with respect and discretion. During your conversation, you’ll discuss your aesthetic concerns and goals, and Dr. Teitelbaum will examine the nipple to determine the best surgical approach for you. He may request additional imaging to evaluate the surrounding milk ducts and nerves, further tailoring your procedure to your needs.

Pricing Your Procedure

The cost of your nipple inversion or reduction will depend on the following factors:

  • Surgical complexity
  • Whether one or both nipples are being addressed
  • Whether nipple correction is done on its own or as part of a breast augmentation

After your consultation, Dr. Teitelbaum’s team will share a clear cost breakdown and extensive financing options for full transparency.

woman crossing her arms

What to Expect From Your Nipple Correction Surgery

When performed on its own, a nipple correction can be done with local anesthesia, and you’ll have the option of additional sedation for your own comfort. During the procedure, Dr. Teitelbaum will make a small incision at the base of the nipple to access the tissue and internal structures.

He’ll carefully remove excess tissue and release any shortened or scarred milk ducts to restore natural projection. All incisions will be closed with small sutures, helping camouflage scarring within the darker pigmentation of the areola. Nipple corrections are typically short procedures, and you should be done in less than an hour.

Banner media

High-Touch, Patient-Centered Recovery

Recovery after a nipple correction typically involves minor swelling or tenderness along the nipple, and you may temporarily lose sensation. Protective dressings may be worn to help reduce swelling and prevent irritation when wearing a bra or tight clothing. Most patients resume normal activities, including desk work, light movement, and social gatherings, within a few days, though you may need to avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks to allow the nipples to settle. After your procedure, Dr. Teitelbaum will share a customized recovery plan tailored to your body’s needs. This list may include the following:

  • Incision site care and cleaning protocols
  • Protective dressing guidance
  • Clothing recommendations
  • Hygiene guidelines
  • Sleep position restrictions
  • Activity limitations
  • Pain and swelling management strategies

You’ll return to Dr. Teitelbaum’s Los Angeles office several times over the coming months for follow-up appointments with his team. There, he’ll monitor your healing progress, remove any remaining sutures, and ensure your nipples have properly settled and regained sensation. Your final results should take shape within several weeks, or once residual swelling has faded.

womans neck and shoulders

Completing Your Transformation

Most patients incorporate a nipple inversion or reduction into a targeted breast enhancement plan, as directed by Dr. Teitelbaum. A nipple correction can be added to the following procedures:

Nipple Inversion Reduction FAQs

Does a nipple reduction affect sensation?

Most patients retain normal sensation after their nipple reduction, though a temporary loss of sensitivity can occur during healing.

Is a nipple correction painful?

No. Patients typically report mild, short-lived discomfort during the procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia. If you’re concerned about pain, talk to Dr. Teitelbaum about your sedation options.

Can inverted nipples come back after surgery?

Recurrence is possible, especially in cases of severe inversion or inversion caused by internal scarring or shortened milk ducts. Dr. Teitelbaum uses proven, strategic techniques to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Will my results be permanent?

The results of your nipple correction are considered permanent, though natural aging and gravity will continue to affect the breast over time. You may notice slight drooping in the future, but most patients enjoy their results for 10 years or longer without any concerns.

References

Dr. Teitelbaum Our Facility Our Staff
Logo media

Schedule a Consultation

(310) 315-1121 Contact Us
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (310) 315-1121.
Contact Us