Nipple / Areola Correction


Nipple and/or areola correction involves adjusting the position, shape, or size of the nipples and areolas. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with other surgeries, such as breast augmentation or a breast lift.

Nipple / areola correction
Brisbane

The nipple is the protruding portion in the centre of the areola that carries the lactiferous (milk) ducts. Nipple surgery is a procedure that addresses inverted, ptotic, long, or large nipples. The surgery involves manipulation or removal of excess tissue in the region to create a size, shape and orientation.

The areola, the darker pigmented circle of skin around the nipple, may become enlarged or puffy. In an areola reduction, excess pigmented skin is trimmed and removed.

Dr. Ian Chinsee brings over 7 years of experience in breast surgery and has conducted over 3,000 breast-related procedures. He is committed to providing personalised care, blending his extensive knowledge with a genuine dedication to approachability and empathy, ensuring that each patient’s individual needs are carefully considered.

Everything You Need to Know About
Nipple / Areola Correction Brisbane

In areola and nipple correction procedures, several factors must be taken into account, including the desired aesthetic results and the specific techniques used. The approach chosen will be based on your individual goals and the natural anatomy of your areolas and nipples.

  • Inverted nipples are usually a result of an underdeveloped, short or thickened lactiferous duct or milk duct. When these milk ducts are shortened they pull on the nipple and cause it to retract inwards. Inverted nipples are usually genetic.

    A nipple can be permanently inverted, or a nipple may be temporarily inverted and can reverse itself with stimulation or changes in temperature.

    • Grade 1: The nipple can be everted and easily maintain projection.

    • Grade 2: The nipple can be everted but cannot maintain projection.

    • Grade 3: The nipple cannot be everted.

  • Depending on the degree of inversion, Dr Ian Chinsee may cut around the milk ducts, or through the milk ducts. If the milk ducts are cut, it will usually have an impact on your ability to breastfeed.

    While an inverted nipple is not inherently dangerous, if you have a nipple that suddenly inverts for no reason, be sure to visit your doctor. In rare cases, this may be a sign of breast cancer.

  • Areola correction is a cosmetic procedure aimed at altering the appearance of the areolas, which are the pigmented areas surrounding the nipples. This procedure can address various concerns related to the size, shape, color, and symmetry of the areolas.

    The areola, the darker pigmented circle of skin around the nipple, may become enlarged or puffy. In an areola reduction, excess pigmented skin is trimmed and removed.

  • A nipple and/or areola correction can be performed alone or alongside other procedures including a breast augmentation and/or mastopey (breast lift)

Ideal Candidates for a

Nipple / Areola Correction

Dr Chinsee will make an assessment during your breast consultation to see if you’re a suitable candidate for a nipple and/or areola correction surgery. The ideal candidate for a nipple / areola correction surgery is someone who is looking to alter the position, shape, or size of the nipples and areolas.. A suitable candidate for nipple/areola correction must be:

  • Aged 18 to 80 years

  • In good overall mental and physical health

  • Finished breastfeeding at least 6 months

  • Realistic in goals and expectations

  • Within approximately five kilograms of their ideal weight

Objectives of a

Nipple / Areola Correction

The objectives of nipple / areola correction surgeries may include:

  • Size Adjustment: Modify the size of the areolas or nipples to achieve a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

  • Shape Enhancement: Reshape the areolas or nipples to correct irregularities, asymmetries, or deformities,

  • Symmetry Improvement: Address differences between the two sides to ensure that the areolas and nipples are symmetrical and align with the overall breast contour.

Meet Your Doctor

Dr. Ian Chinsee

Dr. Ian Chinsee has experience in both nipple and areola correction surgery in Brisbane, performing over 3000 breast-related surgeries to date.

Following the completion of his medical degree at the University of Queensland, he completed four years of surgical rotations within QLD Health as well as two years of advanced surgical training with the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (ACCSM), earning the esteemed Colin Moore Gold Medal Award for Excellence.

  • Dr Ian Chinsee (MED0000975196)

  • Registered Medical Practitioner, General Registration

  • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

  • Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery & Medicine [FACCSM (SURG)]

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR
NIPPLE / AREOLA CORRECTION CONSULT


A consultation is a crucial step in preparing for nipple / areola correction surgery, offering more than just a procedural formality. It provides an opportunity to meet the doctor and surgical team, gain in-depth information about the procedure, understand potential risks and complications, and discuss your goals. This meeting helps clarify achievable results and address any unrealistic expectations based on your specific circumstances.

Before proceeding with cosmetic surgery, patients need to obtain a referral from their GP, complete a body dysmorphic disorder screening questionnaire, and attend at least two pre-operative consultations

  • Upon arrival, a receptionist will assist you with the necessary forms and conduct your 2D and 3D imaging before seeing Dr. Chinsee.

    During your initial consultation, Dr. Chinsee will review your medical history and discuss your aesthetic goals. He will provide comprehensive information about nipple / areola correction surgery, including both surgical & non-surgical techniques, recovery times, and potential risks and complications.

    Dr. Chinsee will then work with you to develop a personalised surgical plan tailored to your objectives.


  • Your second consultation can be scheduled at least seven days following your initial visit. During your second consultation, Dr. Chinsee will review your detailed surgical plan, provide information on pre- and post-operative procedures, and address any questions related to your consent forms. This is also a good time to ask any additional questions.

    After the second consultation, a one-week cooling-off period is required before you can schedule surgery or make any payments. Surgery can only be booked once you have had your second consultation and once the consent forms have been signed.

    Not sure where to start? Request an obligation-free quote from one of our doctors.

Recovery & care from a

Nipple / Areola Correction

While recovery varies from patient to patient, most patients describe the sensation as mild aches and pressure rather than pain. We endeavour to ensure your post-operative comfort with oral pain medication prescribed after the procedure.

Following the operation, patients will require dressing changes at weekly intervals. We provide Out of Town Patients with a letter containing detailed dressing change instructions to give to their GP if dressing change appointments cannot be attended at the Brisbane clinic. 

Most patients should expect to take around one to two weeks off work. Patients with office jobs can usually return to work after one week; however, more physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period. You can usually resume normal activities, including gym exercises, by six weeks. 

Patients will experience swelling, and there may be bruising after the procedure. Major swelling usually subsides by three months, and the results are noticeable at around the one-year mark. A compression bra will need to be worn continuously for six weeks following surgery. 

We will schedule post-operative appointments throughout the following year. These appointments can be conducted virtually or in person at our rooms in Brisbane.

SURGERY TIME

0.5 – 1 hours

HOSPITAL STAY

Day surgery

ANAESTHETIC

General or Local

DRESSING CHANGE

Required at weeks 1, 2, & 3 with an Inigo Cosmetic nurse or your GP. You may need additional dressing changes depending on recovery.

TIME OFF WORK

1 weeks

EXERCISE

None for 6 weeks. Slow return to exercise

GARMENT

Required for 6 weeks

FULL RECOVERY

6 weeks

FAQs

  • With the aim to minimise scarring as much as possible, the incisions are placed discreetly around the outer edge of the areola or nipple to help blend in with the pigmented skin and natural skin of the breast.

    While Dr Chinsee will use surgical techniques to reduce scarring, the appearance of your scars ultimately comes down to how your body heals, genetics and post care. Your surgical scars should fade over time with appropriate postoperative care and can be further minimised with post-procedure treatment. There is always a risk of further stretching, pigmentation and hypertrophic scarring.

    Please visit Scarring After Surgery for more information.

  • Depending on the degree of inversion (usually Grade 1 or 2), the implant may be sufficient to support the nipple in an everted position.

  • Breastfeeding may be more difficult because the baby might have difficulty latching on to the nipple despite the milk ducts working properly.

    However, pregnancy may also result in nipple eversion in Grades 1 or 2 due to overall swelling of the breast.

  • Although an inverted nipple isn’t inherently dangerous, if you have a nipple that suddenly inverts for no reason be sure to visit your doctor – in rare cases this may be a sign of breast cancer.


  • Getting your nipple pierced can sometimes correct an inverted nipple – the jewellery may help stretch the ducts and may keep your nipple in an everted position. This isn’t always permanent, and the nipples will usually retract once the piercing is removed. Additionally, the trauma of the piercing may create additional scar tissue that which may make the inversion worse.

    If you also have breast implants, please keep in mind that piercings and breast implants are not a recommended combination. Read our blog post on Nipple Piercings and Breast Implants.

  • The cost of your areola/nipple surgery can be broken down into three main components:

    The operating doctor’s fee, anaesthetist fees and hospital/clinic fees. All quotes are customised to each patient. To receive a detailed cost breakdown, please book a consultation with Dr Chinsee.

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