Can nipple or areola shape be changed? Different procedures address excess nipple projection, inversion, areola size or a low position on the breast. Darren M. Smith, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, explains why identifying the specific concern matters and why sensation and future breastfeeding should be part of the conversation.

Originally published August 20, 2020. Surgical techniques and anesthesia examples in the recording reflect Dr. Smith's practice at that time.

Key takeaways

🧬 Nipple and areola anatomy

The nipple is the projecting central structure; the areola is the surrounding pigmented skin. Their size, shape and position are separate features.

🩺 Nipple procedure options

Nipple reduction and inverted nipple correction address different concerns. Dr. Smith notes that inversion can recur and may require further treatment.

💬 Sensation and breastfeeding

Nipple procedures can affect sensation and breastfeeding ability. These tradeoffs deserve discussion before surgery.

📍 Areola and breast position

Areola reduction or reshaping concerns the pigmented skin, while a low nipple-areola position associated with breast drooping may require a breast lift.

🩺 Anesthesia planning

Some isolated procedures may use local anesthesia. A breast lift is a more extensive operation, and anesthesia planning depends on the procedure and patient.

🎧 Episode guide

00:00 — Introduction

00:45 — Nipple and areola anatomy

02:17 — Projection and inverted nipples

03:39 — Recurrence, sensation and breastfeeding

04:33 — Areola size, shape and position

07:55 — Anesthesia and procedure scope

💬 Common questions

Can inverted nipple correction affect breastfeeding?

Yes. The recording specifically identifies possible effects on breastfeeding and nipple sensation as issues to discuss with the surgeon. The technique, anatomy and future feeding goals matter.

Is reducing the areola the same as lifting the breast?

No. Dr. Smith distinguishes making the areola smaller or more regular in shape from addressing a low position on the breast mound. He discusses breast lift surgery for the latter when breast drooping is the underlying concern.

Can men have nipple or areola procedures?

Yes. The episode notes that these concerns occur in men as well as women, although the appropriate plan depends on individual anatomy and goals.

ℹ️ Current health context

A new nipple or breast change should be medically assessed before assuming it is only cosmetic. Many breast changes are benign; the National Cancer Institute explains changes to discuss with a clinician. This context is separate from the cosmetic discussion in the recording.

🔗 Related information

Read about inverted nipple correction and breast lift surgery, or schedule a consultation.

About the host — current biography

Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS specializes in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring in Manhattan. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.

Educational information, not individualized medical advice. Risks, recovery and results vary. Show notes updated September 30, 2026.

Full transcript and related resources