Can Prominent Nipples In Men Be Reduced?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a man who is 37 years old. I am bothered by nipples which stick out too far. It is not just that they stick out too far when I am cold but they protrude all the time. It is embarrassing and has been so for years. I wear shirts to try and hide it but it is difficult particularly in the summer. They are often sore and raw from being rubbed on by clothes because they stick out. I just have to do something about it. How is nipple reduction surgery done in men?

A: Management of the excessively protruding nipple is usually done the same whether it is a man or a woman. The outer aspect of the nipple is reduced by a wedge excision, How much is removed depends on the patient’s preference. Most men want the nipples to be coimpletely flat while women prefer a small raised nipple that stands out above the surrounding areola. When done alone, this is an office procedure done under local anesthesia. Small dissolveable sutures are used and only bandaids are used as a dressing. One can shower the very next day and there are no activity or work retrictions. The scars on the nipples heal so well that they can not be found later in most cases.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana