Inverted Nipple Correction in 2023

Inverted Nipple Correction

Inverted nipples are a common condition where the nipples do not project outwards. There are different grades of severity; some inverted nipples are able to protrude with stimulation or pressure while in other cases, the nipples remain inverted regardless of stimulation or pressure. Mild nipple inversion may be improved with Niplette, whereas severe nipple inversion requires surgical correction.

Inverted nipples that develop later in life must be checked by a medical professional as they can be a symptom of more serious underlying breast problem.

Surgical correction of inverted nipples is performed under local anaesthetic as a daycase procedure. During the procedure, Mr Karri will make a small incision at the base of the nipple and through this incision, divide any tethering bands that are keeping the nipple inverted. Once the tethering bands are divided, Mr Karri will pass a suture through the base of the nipple to prevent the tethering bands reforming.

At the end of the procedure a sponge dressing is placed over the nipple to prevent compression and can be removed after one week. There is minimal pain or discomfort following inverted nipple correction and patients can usually return to work the following day.As with all surgical procedures, inverted nipple correction has risks that should be considered before a decision on treatment is made. Risks include;

Infection

Nipple necrosis

Recurrence of nipple inversion

Asymmetry

Change in nipple sensation - It is difficult to predict how nipple sensation will change after surgery. In the majority of cases, nipple sensation will remain unchanged. However, in some cases the nipple may become more or less sensitive.

    Medically reviewed by

Mr Vasu Karri

BSc(Hons), MBBS, MRCS, MSc, FRCS(Plast)
Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Last updated 4th September 2023

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