How breast augmentation may affect the size, shape, or position of a woman’s nipples is one of the most frequently asked questions regarding breast augmentation. As part of their breast augmentation procedure, some women hope to address a cosmetic concern related to their nipples, while others seek the least amount of change possible. Regardless of your situation, these four facts about nipples and breast augmentation should give you a better idea of what to expect.

A breast lift can alter the form of your areolae.
The areolae are the darker pigmented areas surrounding your nipples in the center of each breast. Large or asymmetrical areolae are a cosmetic concern that some women wish to address as part of their breast augmentation procedure.

Adding a breast lift to your breast augmentation can alter the size and/or shape of your areola and nipple if you so desire. Women who wish to breastfeed may wish to delay scheduling this procedure until they have completed their families.

Breast enhancement can correct inverted nips.
Inverted or retracted nipples are frequently inherited and present at birth, but can also be the result of trauma or injury. During your breast augmentation procedure, a board-certified plastic surgeon can correct inverted nipples using a specific surgical technique.

Typically, your plastic surgeon will make a small, simple incision through which he or she will turn your nipple outward to improve its appearance. If you are not interested in breast augmentation, you can undergo this simple procedure without breast implants.

Inform your plastic surgeon if you intend to breastfeed after surgery, so he or she can plan your procedure accordingly.

Most women can continue breastfeeding despite having implants.
If breastfeeding after breast augmentation is important to you, be sure to mention this to your plastic surgeon during your consultation. When this is the case, the peri-areolar incision is typically avoided to reduce the risk of interfering with nipple and duct function.

Instead, your plastic surgeon will likely recommend an inframammary incision, which should not interfere with your ability to breastfeed in the future.

As the implants settle, the position of the nose will soften.
Do not be alarmed if your nipples appear to be perched a bit too high on your chest wall immediately after breast augmentation, as this is a normal occurrence. It may take some time for breast implants to “drop and fluff,” or soften into a lower, more natural position. Implants that are “riding high” on the chest wall can temporarily alter the position of the nipple until this point. The good news is that this is only temporary, and as your breast implants settle into place, the position of your nipples should become much more natural.