What is an Accessory Nipple?
The breast develops along a “milk line’ that extends from the axilla (arm pit area) to the groin. This milk line is present as the embryo develops into a fetus and then into a new born. A breast and or nipple can develop anywhere along this milk line.
In the vast majority of women and men, the breast and nipple develop normally in their correct location.
An aberrant nipple can occur along the milk line. It may appear as a small mole like projection called an accessory nipple or it may appear as a full nipple.
The most common location for an accessory nipple is along the upper rib cage or the lower pole of the breast.
This can be treated by removing the accessory nipple under local anaesthesia.
The nipple and underlying breast tissue is removed and sent to pathology for analysis.
The incision is sutured with a dissolving stitch.
A small scar will be left where the accessory nipple was removed.
Will AHS (Alberta Health Services) cover nipple surgery?
Nipple cosmesis surgery is not covered by Alberta Health Services.