Understanding and Treating Accessory Nipples: Removing the “Nubbin”

Accessory nipples, also known as third nipples, are a fairly common congenital condition that can affect people of any gender. While these extra nipples are usually harmless, they can cause discomfort and self-esteem issues in some people. In popular culture, Chandler Bing jokingly referred to his third nipple as a “nubbin” during a conversation with Joey on the TV show “Friends.” While this may have made viewers laugh, it is a real concern for those who have an accessory nipple.

What Are Third Nipples?

Accessory nipples, also known as supernumerary nipples, are nipple-like structures that can form anywhere along the “milk line.” The milk line is a developmental feature found in mammals, including humans, that occurs during early embryonic development and forms breast tissue. Normally, two nipples are found on the chest, but extra nipples can appear along this line in some cases.

These extra nipples can vary in size, shape, and appearance, and they can occur alone or in groups. While accessory nipples rarely cause physical harm, they can cause emotional and psychological distress for those who have them, especially if they are visible or cause embarrassment.

Treatment Options for Third Nipples

Surgical removal of accessory nipples, also known as nipple excision or nipple revision surgery, is the most definitive way to address them. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Solomon Azouz will make precise markings and incisions around the accessory nipple before carefully removing the nipple and closing the incision with fine sutures. Dr. Azouz places an emphasis on aesthetics, strategically placing incisions to minimize scarring and achieve a cosmetically pleasing outcome.

You may experience some temporary discomfort, swelling, and bruising following the procedure.
Dr. Azouz will give you postoperative instructions on how to care for your incisions and how to manage discomfort. The incisions will heal, and the scarring will fade with time. Dr. Azouz will recommend scar management techniques, such as silicone gel or sheets, to reduce the visibility of scars.

Accessory nipple removal surgery is generally regarded as safe and effective, with a short recovery period. Depending on the extent of the surgery and individual healing processes, most people can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week.

Third nipple removal surgery is a relatively simple procedure that is usually performed as a stand-alone procedure. However, if you have additional cosmetic or medical concerns, certain procedures can be combined with accessory nipple removal. Here are some common procedures that can be combined with accessory nipple removal surgery:

• Breast Augmentation or Reduction
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
• Areola Reduction
• Breast Reconstruction
• Liposuction
• Body Contouring
• Gynecomastia Surgery

During your consultation, it is critical that you discuss your specific goals and concerns with Dr. Azouz. Dr. Azouz will evaluate your overall health, individual anatomy, and desired outcomes to determine the best combination of procedures, if any. Keep in mind that combining surgeries can have benefits such as reducing overall recovery time and cost, but it also requires more extensive planning and potentially increased surgical risks, so it should be carefully considered and discussed with Dr. Azouz.

While third nipples are usually harmless, they can have an effect on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. If you have an accessory nipple that causes you physical or emotional pain, you should know that there are treatment options available, including surgical removal. Dr. Solomon Azouz, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Dallas, can assist you in achieving the desired aesthetic results.

Don’t let an extra nipple, or “nubbin,” prevent you from feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. Call Dr. Azouz’s office at (972) 702-8888 to schedule a consultation to discuss your options and take the first step toward a happier, more confident you.