OBJECTIVETo explore an ideal surgical method for nipple hypertrophy correction.

METHODSFrom July 2008 to June 2011, 44 nipple reductions were performed for 22 women (44 sides) by using the modified Z-shaped incision technique. The incision consists of two circles, one quadrangle and one triangle located on the top, body and base of the nipple. The nipple's height was decreased and the nipple diameter and base area were reduced. Bilateral nipples were designed symmetrically.

RESULTS22 cases(44 sides) were treated with primary healing. The mean diameter of the nipple was reduced to (9.8 +/- 1.6) mm from (17.6 +/- 3.4) mm, the average height from (18.8 +/- 3.6) mm to (8.2 +/- 1.4) mm, with the patient supine. All the patients were followed up for 14 months to 4 years with satisfactory results. No nipple necrosis, infection and numb happened. 20 patients completed the self-designed survey scale 1 year after operation, of which 4 cases achieved normal lactation, and the remaining patients didn't have childbirth and breastfeeding yet.

CONCLUSIONSThe modified Z-shaped incision technique could reduce the height, diameter, and most importantly, reduce the basal shape of all types of hypertrophic nipple to create a desired new cylindrical nipple without affection of nipple sensation and function.