• Nipple Reduction Surgery with renowned Plastic Surgeons based in the UK
  • Regain a new sense of confidence regarding the appearance of your breasts or chest
  • Minimal discreet scarring
  • 0% Finance Available
What’s on this page

Medically reviewed by Lorcan Sheppard BSc MBBS FRCA, Chief Medical Officer for The Private Clinic of Harley Street, London.
Last Reviewed January 16th 2025

Nipple Reduction

Nipple size or appearance can often change through weight gain, weight loss or pregnancy but conditions such as gynecomastia can also cause nipples to appear oversized in proportion to the rest of the chest.

Overly large nipples can affect men and women. It can cause concern to some patients either due to discomfort or increased visibility when wearing certain types of clothing.

Nipple Reduction in Women

It has been reported that 1 in 10 women in the UK suffer from nipple-related conditions where the nipples stick out and are often seen through clothing causing them to feel self-conscious. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are two common reasons why women may experience enlarged nipples. Nipple reduction surgery is a safe and effective procedure to help reduce the size of nipples making them more in proportion to the rest of the breast.

Nipple Reduction in Men

Men can suffer from the appearance of puffy or enlarged nipples due to gynecomastia. This is a condition which causes an excess in breast tissue developing within the chest which causes the nipple to be pushed outwards.

This can cause men to feel uncomfortable when wearing tight-fitting clothing or doing activities that require a bare chest like swimming. In some cases, weight gain and/or loss can also cause the nipple to appear more prominent. Nipple reduction surgery can be performed on nipples that are large in proportion to the rest of the chest.

Choosing Nipple Reduction Surgery

Whatever your reason for choosing nipple reduction surgery. You can rest assured that our expert consultant plastic surgeons will work with you to understand the cause of your enlarged nipple and the best possible treatment method which is going to achieve your expected results.

It can be performed as a stand-alone procedure usually under local anaesthetic, or in combination with other surgical procedures such as a breast augmentation, breast uplift or a male chest reduction.

Where can I have nipple reduction surgery?

Nipple Reduction Surgery consultations are available at our London Harley Street, Birmingham, and Northampton clinics.

We also offer treatment for flat and inverted nipples.

Nipple Reduction Consultation

The best option is to come and have a discreet no-obligation consultation with our Consultant Plastic Surgeons who can discuss the procedure and your aims.

We believe information is important when you start your journey ensuring peace of mind when making that important decision. We provide expert Cosmetic surgeons and a dedicated medical team in our state-of-the-art boutique hospital.

Nipple Reduction Surgery UK at a glance

Procedure Time
1 hour

Anaesthetic Type
Local anaesthetic

Hospital Stay
Day case

Support Garments
Bandages

Washing
1 day

Driving
24 – 48 hours

Up & Mobile
Immediately

Sexual Activity
4 – 6 weeks

Back to work
1 – 2 days

Exercise
2 – 3 weeks

Travel
6 weeks

Full Recovery Time
6 weeks

Sleeping
Sleeping elevated on back for 2 weeks

Final Results
6 – 12 months

For more information on FAQs, before and after photos and expert Plastic surgeons see below.

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Nipple Reduction Surgery Before & After Photos

Our expert surgeons provide specialist nipple correction procedures.
Take a look at the Before and After photos to see how we have helped patients.

What to Expect

The Private Clinic has been treating patients for over 40 years with thousands of patients placing their trust in us each year. We pride ourselves on being able to offer a personalised service. We have a team of expert plastic surgeons who specialise in nipple correction procedures and understand the importance of this decision. We will support you throughout your journey with us.

The Consultation

Nipple reduction consultations will take place with one of our expert plastic surgeons.

During this consultation, your surgeon will be able to assess your suitability for nipple reduction surgery and discuss the options available.

Your surgeon will then also:
• Review your medical history
• Discuss your expectations from nipple reduction surgery
• Detail the risks and complications of nipple reduction surgery
• Go through the aftercare and recovery process

You will then be allocated a dedicated patient coordinator who will be your point of contact should you wish to go ahead with the procedure.

Pre-Operative Appointment

In the interests of patient safety, all our patients are assessed against our patient selection criteria.

Following your nipple reduction consultation your medical history will be reviewed and the pre-operative nurse will advise on pre-operative tests.

They will advise you of any precautions you need to take in the days or weeks leading up to your nipple reduction procedure and advise on any medication that you should stop taking before your procedure.

The Procedure

Nipple reduction surgery is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure often taking around 20 minutes to treat each nipple. The procedure entails removing part of the nipple tissue to reduce its size.

Day of the procedure
You will be given an admission time to arrive at the hospital, this is usually an hour before your surgery start time.

Once admitted:

  • The nursing team will record your blood pressure and prep you for surgery.
  • You will meet with the surgeon who will go through the procedure again and answer any questions.
  • Pre-operative photos will be taken.

The Procedure:

  • Local anaesthetic will be administered to the areas being treated.
  • An incision will be made around the base of the nipple.
  • The extra tissue is cut away and the rest of the nipple is pulled in towards the chest or breast.
  • Stitches will be used to secure the nipple into its new position and close the incision.
  • A dressing will be applied to the area.

Once your procedure is complete, you will be taken to one of the recovery rooms. The surgeon and nursing team will ensure you are feeling well following your procedure. You will then be discharged from the clinic and allowed to leave accompanied by a family member or friend.

After your nipple reduction procedure

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week should you have any worries or concerns during your recovery time.

We recommend that patients allow 2-3 days before returning to work following a nipple reduction procedure to allow any initial discomfort to subside. You will need to avoid exercise and strenuous activities for 2 weeks.

You will be required to attend a series of follow-up appointments at The Private Clinic which includes a 1-week check-up appointment with a nurse and then your 6-week post-operative appointment with your surgeon.

At this stage, you should be fully healed and back to your everyday activities and your surgeon will be able to advise you on anything that you are unsure of or have questions about.

The scars post-surgery will be minimal and virtually undetectable as they are well hidden on the underside of the nipple where it meets the areola.

The Private Clinic have collaborated with Chrysalis Finance to offer 0% finance for our patients.*

*Acceptance is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes enlarged nipples?
There is no real cause for enlarged nipples and they generally start to appear as your breast develops although in some cases it can be caused by breast feeding. Other causes for enlarged, protruding or puffy nipples can be weight loss, weight gain or gynaecomastia.
What is the ideal nipple size?

The average nipple size is a projection of 6 to 10 mm however to work out your ideal shape or size it will be based on your unique breast or chest measurements. Your surgeon will determine nipple size that is proportionate to you.

Do enlarged nipples need to be treated?

There are no real health concerns associated with large nipples unless they have suddenly changed in appearance without any other obvious causes. Patients mainly seek correction purely down to the aesthetic concern that it causes them. A consultation with one of our expert surgeons will be able to tell you more about the treatment before you make a decision to go ahead or not.

Click here to book a consultation.

What happens at a nipple reduction consultation?

A consultation with your surgeon is a great way to get an idea of what the best treatment plan is going to be for you. Your surgeon will be able to assess you and discuss what to realistically expect from surgery. It is also your chance to ask them questions about the procedure and what to expect post-op.

Click here to book a consultation.

Is it possible for the consultation and procedure to be carried out on the same day?

In the majority of cases it is possible to be treated on a ‘see and treat’ purpose. This would often require you to send a photo to the surgeon for assessment prior to your appointment. You will then be given an appointment date where your procedure will be carried out on the same day.

Nipple Reduction is Available in these Clinics

Things to Consider

Our advice on what to consider when deciding to have a nipple reduction procedure:

1. When choosing a clinic, you should always do your research, and only go to an established, reputable clinic.

The Private Clinic has been in the cosmetic surgery industry for over 40 years. We are here to answer all of your questions and give you peace of mind.

2. When choosing a surgeon, make sure you know who you’ll be seeing. Their expertise, qualifications and patient satisfaction rate are important factors to take into consideration.

At The Private Clinic, we only source the most experienced and specialised surgeons. Find out more about our plastic surgeons here.

3. Price should never be the deciding factor when choosing where to have your treatment. Safety should be your number one priority and feeling confident that they will look after you – not only before, but also after your procedure

4. When it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Always find out what your clinic’s reputation is.

Our excellent reputation for patient safety and satisfaction, honest advice and outstanding care means your journey with The Private Clinic will be an exciting experience to a newfound shape.

Why Choose The Private Clinic

  • Over 40 years’ experience in medical cosmetic procedures and advanced non surgical non invasive treatments.
  • Consultations with expert consultant plastic surgeons who have years of experience.
  • 24 hour patient helpline to ensure you are always in the best of hands.
  • Outstanding hospital facilities.
  • Our experience and medical expertise makes your journey a reassuring one.

Meet our Surgeons

We have a dedicated Plastic Surgeon and medical team who will be with you throughout your journey.

At The Private Clinic nipple reduction surgery is performed by some of the UK’s top consultant plastic surgeons who have decades of experience.

Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive, Cosmetic Surgeon

Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon