Excess nipples: how to get rid of them
Excess nipples are due to incomplete regression of the milk line in the unborn child in the womb. They are detected in two to three percent of newborns and can run in families. A connection with renal malformation is controversially discussed. Supernumerary (accessory) nipples usually occur on one side, occasionally with an areola and individual hairs. The technical term for this is polythely. Supernumerary nipples usually occur in the immediate vicinity of the breast above the pectoral muscle or near the armpit, less frequently on the abdomen. After removal, the tissue is examined histologically to obtain certainty about the benign findings.
How are accessory nipples removed?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and on an outpatient basis. The tissue is gently removed with a scalpel and you will only feel movements on the surface of the skin. In order to leave an inconspicuous scar, the surrounding soft skin tissue is detached. The wound is then closed with fine stitches without any tension and a dressing is applied. The duration of the outpatient procedure is approximately 15 minutes. Follow-up appointments are then arranged. In the follow-up consultation, you will learn everything about aftercare and receive a comprehensive written report. To be on the safe side, you will also be given an emergency telephone number which you can use to contact the surgeon 24 hours a day in an emergency.
During the entire surgical process, i.e. during preparation as well as during the procedure and in the follow-up, you have the opportunity to watch entertaining movies or your favorite series with virtual reality glasses. This distraction has been shown to reduce sensitivity to pain.
How can you prepare for the removal of accessory nipples?
- All your questions about possible complications and alternative treatments should be answered before the operation.
- Shower with a disinfectant soap (e.g. HiBiScrub® Plus, Octenisan® Wash Lotion, Prontoderm® Shower Gel) on the day of the operation.
- Keep nicotine and alcohol consumption to a minimum.
- You may need to temporarily stop taking hormone-containing medication (the pill).
- Blood-thinning medication (e.g. ASA, Thomapyrin®) must be discontinued at least ten days before the operation after consultation with your doctor.
- Vitamin preparations (A, E) and dietary supplements (omega-3 fatty acids, St. John’s wort preparations, etc.) must be discontinued at least four weeks before the operation.
What do you need to consider after the removal of accessory nipples?
- This is followed by regular checks on your well-being and the results of the operation.
- Showering is possible from the 3rd postoperative day immediately before the wound check.
- From the third postoperative week, massaging several times a day for a few minutes in a circular pattern and along and across the course of the scar with greasy creams (e.g. Bepanthen® ointment or Linola® fat) helps to make the scars less noticeable.
- Bending over, lifting heavy loads, swimming, saunas, sexual intercourse and sporting activities should be avoided for two weeks, possibly longer if swelling persists.
