What Is Nipple Reduction Surgery?
Posted on August 10, 2025Nipple reduction surgery is a straightforward cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the size or length of the nipples. Some people naturally have nipples that are larger, longer, or more prominent than they’d like, or that have changed in size due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or aging. Nipple reduction helps create a more balanced, proportionate appearance that many find more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.
How Does Nipple Reduction Work?
During nipple reduction surgery, a plastic surgeon carefully removes excess tissue from the nipple to make it smaller in diameter, shorter in projection, or both. There are a few different techniques, but the goal is always to maintain natural nipple sensation and function.
Nipple reduction is usually performed under local anesthesia with light sedation and takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It can be done as a stand-alone procedure or combined with other breast surgeries such as a breast lift, breast augmentation, areola reduction, or breast reduction for more comprehensive reshaping.

Nipple Reduction Surgery Before & After
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nipple Reduction Surgery?
You may be a good candidate for nipple reduction if you:
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Feel your nipples are too large, long, or prominent for your comfort or desired look
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Have nipples that droop or stretch due to breastfeeding or aging
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Experience discomfort or irritation when wearing tight clothing or during physical activity
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Have realistic expectations and are in good overall health
Your surgeon will discuss your goals and recommend the best approach during a personal consultation.
What Is Recovery Like?
Recovery after nipple reduction surgery is typically quick and simple. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a day or two. Some mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness is common but generally resolves within a week.
Stitches may be removed in about a week, or they may dissolve on their own. To help ensure proper healing and minimize any visible scarring, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-care instructions.
Will There Be a Scar?
Nipple reduction surgery does create a small scar on the nipple, but skilled surgeons place incisions so that scars are minimal and often blend well with the natural color and texture of the nipple. With time and good care, the scar typically becomes barely noticeable.
Does Insurance Cover Nipple Reduction?
Nipple reduction surgery is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it is usually not covered by insurance. If it is performed as part of a medically necessary breast reduction or reconstruction, insurance may help cover part of the total surgery cost.
Should I Consider Nipple Reduction?
If overly large or prominent nipples affect your confidence, comfort, or the way clothes fit, nipple reduction surgery may be a simple, effective option to achieve a more balanced, natural breast appearance. Many people feel more confident and comfortable after making this small yet impactful change.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re curious about nipple reduction and want to learn more, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll answer your questions, discuss your goals, and create a customized plan to help you feel your best.
For More Information on the Treatments and Procedures offered, contact award-winning Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Thomas Fiala at Fiala Aesthetics in Greater Orlando to Schedule Your Consultation:
Voted the #1 Best Plastic Surgeon in Orlando, Florida by the readers of Orlando Magazine.
Serving patients in and around Greater Central Florida: Orlando, Altamonte, Lake Mary, Maitland, Winter Park, Clermont, Casselberry, Lake Mary, Longwood, Celebration, Heathrow, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Sanford, Deltona, Deland, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Ocala, The Villages and more.

