# Nipple Surgery (Nipple Correction) > A **nipple reconstruction surgery** is done to correct defective nipples. Patients who suffer from inverted, protruding or large areola are candidates for having this procedure. - Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/nipple-surgery - Category: [Breast Augmentation](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/breast-augmentation) - Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md - Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer ## Overview A **nipple reconstruction surgery** is done to correct defective nipples. Patients who suffer from inverted, protruding or large areola are candidates for having this procedure. ## The procedure Nipple reconstruction surgery entails creating skin flaps that will be placed underneath the nipple to better contour the nipple mound depending on the defect. There are various flap techniques used during this procedure, the surgeon will determine the best course of action for the patient's individual issues. ## Candidate information - **Description:** The ideal candidate would be in generally good health and have realistic expectations with the outcome. Most nipple reconstruction patients have undergone a mastectomy, however, women who suffer from damaged breast skin are not good candidates for this procedure. ### Criteria - Patients who have undergone mastectomy - Patients with inverted nipples - Patients with protruding nipples - Patients with large areolas ## Preparation - **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery ### Medical tests - **Complete blood count (CBC)** - **ECG if over 40 years old** - **Chest X-ray if indicated** - **COVID-19 test if required** ### Medications #### Medications to discuss stopping - **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior - **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior #### Medications to continue - **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky** - **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation ### Lifestyle - **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications - **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery - **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**) ### Arrangements - **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive - **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours** - **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials - **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies - **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure) - **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery ## Recovery and aftercare Nipple reconstruction surgery is a generally safe and simple procedure, with great care taken to maximize healing. In some cases a nipple flap delay procedure is recommended, this means a few weeks prior to the reconstruction surgery a nipple skin flap will be placed under local anesthesia. Depending on the anesthesia, patients generally leave a few hours after the procedure and will require a few days downtime. The first few days the patient will wear a nipple shield, once the shield comes off they are allowed to shower. Stitches are removed around **2 weeks** post surgery. The nipple shape will be protruded and swollen but after a few weeks, it should start to resemble the results the patient discussed with the surgeon. ## Expected results Most patients see immediate improvement in nipple appearance, with final results becoming apparent as swelling subsides over **2-4 weeks**. ## Techniques - **C-V Flap** - **Star Flap** - **Skate Flap** ## Frequently asked questions ### Will I have sensation in my reconstructed nipple? Reconstructed nipples typically have little to no sensation, as the nerves are not reconnected during reconstruction. However, some patients may regain limited sensation over time. ### How long does nipple reconstruction surgery take? The procedure typically takes about **30-60 minutes** and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. ### What are the normal side effects after nipple surgery? Normal side effects include soreness, bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. These typically subside within a few weeks. ### What types of nipple problems can be corrected? Nipple surgery can correct inverted nipples, protruding nipples, large areolas, asymmetrical nipples, and reconstruct nipples after mastectomy. ### Can inverted nipple surgery affect breastfeeding? Depending on the technique used, some inverted nipple corrections may preserve breastfeeding ability, while others may not. Discuss this with **Dr Maresky** during consultation. ### How much does nipple surgery cost in Cape Town? Pricing varies based on individual needs and the type of correction required. A consultation is required to assess your specific requirements and provide accurate pricing. Please book a consultation or **Contact for Pricing** at gideonmaresky@gmail.com for personalized pricing information. ### Will nipple surgery leave visible scars? Incisions are carefully placed to minimize visible scarring, often around the areola border or within natural skin creases. ### How long is the recovery for nipple surgery? Recovery is typically quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days and full healing within **2-4 weeks**. ## Indicative pricing - Estimate: R25,000 ZAR - Cost factor: Inverted nipple correction vs reduction - Cost factor: One side vs both - Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/nipple-surgery - Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation. ## Consultation and contact - Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation - Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact