A third nipple, known medically as polythelia or a supernumerary nipple, is an extra nipple that forms during development in the womb. It is common, affects both men and women, and is usually harmless. Many are small and mistaken for a mole or birthmark. If one bothers you, it can usually be removed with a minor procedure under local anaesthetic.
Why do extra nipples develop?
Early in development, two ridges of tissue called the milk lines run down the front of the body, from the armpits to the groin. Normally, breast tissue and nipples develop only at one point on each side, on the chest, and the rest of the ridge disappears. If a small area of the milk line remains, an extra nipple can form. This is why third nipples are usually found along this line, most often just below the breast, but sometimes in the armpit, on the abdomen or, rarely, elsewhere.
What does a third nipple look like?
- Size: usually small, from a tiny raised spot to something resembling a normal nipple.
- Appearance: a small pink or brown bump, sometimes with a ring of darker skin like an areola.
- Position: usually along the milk line, often on the chest or upper abdomen.
- Tissue beneath: some have a little breast tissue underneath (sometimes called polymastia when there is breast tissue), which may swell or feel tender with periods, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
They are often confused with moles. A dermatologist, GP or surgeon can usually tell the difference on examination.
Is a third nipple harmful?
On its own, a third nipple is a normal variation and is usually harmless. Any breast tissue beneath it responds to hormones in the same way as normal breast tissue, so it can become tender or swollen during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, and, like any breast tissue, can occasionally develop the same conditions as the breast itself.
When to see a GP
See your GP if a third nipple, or a spot you think might be one:
- Changes in size, shape or colour, or develops irregular edges.
- Bleeds, itches, crusts or becomes sore without an obvious reason.
- Develops a lump beneath it or produces discharge.
These changes need assessment to rule out a skin problem, such as an abnormal mole, or a breast problem. A new lump anywhere along the milk line should be checked promptly.
Do I need to have it removed?
No. Treatment is not medically necessary for a harmless third nipple. Some people choose removal because they are self-conscious about it, because it rubs on clothing or a bra, or because underlying tissue becomes uncomfortable. Where there is doubt about what the lesion is, removal also allows it to be examined under a microscope.
Removal surgery
Removing a third nipple is minor surgery, and a minor excision can be discussed at your consultation with Mr Nassab. It is usually done as a day procedure under local anaesthetic. The nipple and any small amount of tissue beneath it are removed through an elliptical (almond-shaped) incision, which is closed with fine stitches to leave a thin line scar. If there is more breast tissue beneath, a slightly larger procedure or liposuction may be needed. The removed tissue is usually sent for routine analysis. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Recovery, risks and cost
Most people go home straight afterwards and return to work within a day or two, avoiding strenuous exercise or friction on the area for a week or two. Stitches, if not dissolvable, are removed at around a week to ten days. Risks include infection, bleeding, a visible, stretched or raised scar, altered skin sensation and, rarely, the need for further surgery. The cost of third nipple removal is quoted at consultation. The consultation fee of £150 is separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is a third nipple?
Extra nipples are common and occur in both men and women. Many people do not realise they have one because it looks like a mole.
Can a third nipple produce milk?
If there is breast tissue beneath it, it may swell and occasionally produce a small amount of milk during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Is a third nipple a mole?
It can look like one. A doctor can usually tell the difference by examining it, and any changing mole or spot should be checked.
Is third nipple removal painful?
It is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel only the initial injection. Mild soreness afterwards is usually controlled with simple painkillers.
