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Puffy nipples are one of the most common symptoms of gynecomastia, although this is not a medical term. Puffy nipples can be treated along with excess breast tissue and excess skin during gynecomastia surgery.
What are Puffy Nipples?
Puffy nipples usually develop during adolescence, and they are caused by the accumulation of swollen breast tissue and/or excess fat underneath the nipple-areolar complex. The growth of glandular breast tissue around the areola causes the nipple and areola to push outward and form a cone shape which makes the nipples appear puffy. Certain medications like anti-anxiety drugs, herbal supplements, and anabolic steroids could worsen breast tissue growth and the resulting puffy nipples.
Patients with excess body fat could be more at risk for the development of these protruding nipples. You may be able to reduce puffy nipples or improve their appearance with chest exercises, but surgical methods may be required if your enlarged breasts and puffy nipples persist. Men and boys may have difficulty wearing tighter-fitting shirts since their puffy nipples are noticeable and often cause embarrassment.
Meet World-Renowned Gynecomastia Surgeon Dr. Delgado

Dr. Delgado is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon and gynecomastia specialist in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Over the course of more than 30 years, he has performed over 5,000 cases of gynecomastia surgery and transformed the lives of thousands of patients by creating a more masculine aesthetic and boosting confidence. Dr. Delgado is the owner and operator of Gynecomastia.org, the world’s largest gynecomastia forum that focuses on educating, supporting, and providing guidance to men and families affected by gynecomastia
Dr. Delgado’s Awards & Accomplishments
VIEW FULL BIOTreatment Options for Puffy Nipples
Male breast reduction or gynecomastia surgery is usually required to treat puffy nipples, and each case will be treated individually depending on the severity of your condition. Sometimes the pull-through technique is sufficient. This is the least invasive option that can benefit young men with mild to moderate skin laxity. Since puffy nipples usually develop during adolescence, the success rate of these surgeries is very high since the skin is still young and has a good contraction.
More significant amounts of enlarged breast tissue accompanied by puffy nipples may require a two-stage gynecomastia surgery or mastectomy with a free nipple graft. These surgical methods are reserved for patients with severely enlarged breasts. The ultimate goal is to remove excess glandular tissue beneath the affected puffy nipples to create flatter nipples, and an overall flatter chest so that young men can have a toned, masculine chest.

The Story of Three Men

“Puffy Nipples” are Gynecomastia
San Francisco, California-“Puffy Nipples” are true Gynecomastia, states Dr. Miguel Delgado . When the nipple areola has a protuberance and fullness causing a dome shape, it is because of the dense Gynecomastia breast tissue under the nipple. This is the original placement of the breast bud during development in puberty;…
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Dr. Delgado is highly experienced with all forms of gynecomastia treatment and he works with comprehensive, compassionate care to improve breast enlargement and puffy nipples in men. Schedule a consultation using our online form or give our office a call to determine whether you are a candidate for gynecomastia surgery.
