INVERTED NIPPLE CORRECTION

Nipple Enhancement

Model. Not actual patient.

The Benefits of Inverted Nipple Correction

The typical breast shape features a point in the middle of the breast mound, created by a nipple. If you have breasts that have inverted and flat nipples that don't resemble this typical shape, you may find it aesthetically displeasing.

Inverted nipple correction releases the tissue that causes the nipples to retract, so they can project outward. That means you'll finally have the typical breast shape that you've always wanted, or may have lost over the years. You may experience these benefits:

an improved sense of self because your breasts look more "regular"
less hesitation and embarrassment in intimate situations
the ability to wear what you want to wear without worrying about how you look

Inverted nipples can affect one or both breasts. If you have just one breast affected, the procedure may also achieve better symmetry.

Get It Checked Out First, Just In Case

Typically, nipple inversion is considered normal and not a health concern. It may be genetic, or developed with weight gain, pregnancy or breastfeeding. It can also be caused by breast surgery. In the overwhelming majority of cases, people with inverted nipples do not have an underlying health condition.

However, it's still a good idea to get it checked out by your primary care physician first just to make sure that you're okay. Inverted nipples have been linked to inflammation, mastitis (mammary gland infection), abscess and cancer.

Inverted Nipple Correction Risks

Inverted nipple correction surgery is a safe procedure with a high satisfaction rate. Like any surgery, it has its own set of risks. These include the following:

Infection
Excessive bleeding and bruising
Excessive swelling (seroma)
Changes in nipple sensation
Abnormal scarring
Negative impact on breastfeeding (our surgeons are extremely careful to reduce this risk)
Re-inversion
Nipple asymmetry

These risks are considered rare. In the event a complication occurs, revision surgery may be necessary to rectify the issue.

Model. Not actual patient.

Nipple Inversion Grades

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You can get a general idea of what grade of nipple inversion you have with this information:

Grade 1
The nipple can be easily pulled out and its projection can be maintained.
Grade 2
The nipple can be pulled out with a little more difficulty, but the nipple retracts so the projection cannot be maintained.
Grade 3
The nipple cannot be pulled out, or it immediately retracts with the attempt. This makes breastfeeding extremely difficult or impossible.

With examination, a medical doctor can make an accurate assessment.

The Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery

Inverted nipple correction is a plastic surgical procedure that relatively straightforward and requires no overnight stay. After administering local or general anesthesia, small incisions are made in the areola to release the tissues that are causing the nipple to permanently retract. By releasing these tissues, the nipple is able to protrude. Sutures are placed to maintain projection and then incisions are closed.

You'll be able to see the results immediately, although the optimal results appear in a few weeks, after swelling and bruising disappear.

Our surgeons are extremely careful when releasing the constricted tissues to reduce the risk of damaging the milk ducts. While patients should understand that there is a risk of not being able to breastfeed after surgery, most of our patients are able to do so without issue.

Inverted Nipple Correction FAQ

Can you correct inverted nipples without surgery?

There may be some ways to correct inverted nipples without surgery, however they typically aren't effective and can't achieve permanent results. Surgery is designed to achieve results that are permanent.

Is inverted nipple surgery permanent?

Inverted nipple surgery is designed to achieve permanent results. It is rare that revision surgery is performed.

How long does it take for inverted nipple surgery to heal?

It depends on how much correction is involved. However, generally speaking patients can expect to complete the initial part of their recovery in about 1-2 weeks. While swelling and bruising may last a few weeks, the final result may be seen in a few months.

How much does it cost to fix inverted nipples?

It is usually in the thousands of dollars, depending on whether one or both nipples are treated, as well as the extent of correction.

How do they fix inverted nipples?

Inverted nipple correction typically involves incisions to release the tissues that keep the nipple from protruding properly. Sutures may be placed to hold the projected nipple in place.

Is it normal to have an inverted nipple?

Inverted nipples are quite common and are usually not a sign of an underlying health issue. A woman may have one or both nipples affected.

What should I do if I have inverted nipples?

If your inverted nipples aren't causing you any issues, then there is nothing you need to do to correct them. However, if you are experiencing embarrassment, discomfort or other issue, then please speak with your primary care physician for an assessment. This is to first rule out an underlying health concern that may be causing nipple inversion. If there is no issue but are only concerned about their appearance, then talk to us to find out if plastic surgery can correct them.