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Supernumerary nipples
     
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Supernumerary nipples

Polymastia; Polythelia; Accessory nipples

 

Supernumerary nipples are the presence of extra nipples.

Considerations

 

Extra nipples are fairly common. They are generally unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. The extra nipples usually occur in a line below the normal nipples. They are usually not recognized as extra nipples because they tend to be small and not well-formed.

 

Causes

 

Common causes of supernumerary nipples are:

  • Variation of normal development
  • Some rare genetic syndromes may be associated with supernumerary nipples

 

Home Care

 

Most people do not need treatment. The extra nipples do NOT develop into breasts at puberty. If you want them removed, the nipples can be removed by surgery.

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Talk to your child's health care provider if there are extra nipples on an infant. Tell the provider if there are other symptoms.

 

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

 

The provider will do a physical exam. The provider may ask questions about the person's medical history. The number and location of extra nipples will be noted.

 

 

References

Antaya RJ, Schaffer JV. Developmental anomalies. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 64.

Cugno S, Azzi AJ. Congenital breast anomalies. In: Farhadieh RD, Bulstrode NW, Mehrara BJ, Cugno S, eds. Plastic Surgery: Principles and Practice. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 37.

McVay-Gillam MR, DiVasta AD. Breast health. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 588.

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  • Supernumerary nipple

    Supernumerary nipple

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  • Supernumerary nipples

    Supernumerary nipples

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    • Supernumerary nipple

      Supernumerary nipple

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    • Supernumerary nipples

      Supernumerary nipples

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    Self Care

     
       

      Review Date: 1/2/2026

      Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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