Inverted Nipple Treatment
Nipple correction surgery before and after videos
What is an Inverted Nipple?
If a nipple is inverted, it lies flat against the areola or goes inward instead of sticking out. The areola is the circular area of pigmented skin around the nipple.
Another name for inverted nipples is retracted nipples. Some people are born with them, and others develop them later in life.
Both males and females can have them. Sometimes, only one nipple is inverted.
Inverted nipples are not a cause for concern. Also, they do not necessarily make breastfeeding difficult, as the baby can latch over the entire areola.
However, depending on the degree of inversion, a person may face challenges with breastfeeding or be unable to do so.
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Before Inverted Nipple Treatment
What causes an inverted nipple?
A person may have inverted nipples from birth, which doctors call congenital inversion. Or, a person may develop inverted nipples later in life, which is an acquired inversion.
Acquired inversion can indicate an underlying medical issue, such as inflammation of the breast tissue. People should see a doctor if one or both nipples invert in a short period.
Medical conditions that can cause nipple inversion include:
. Mastitis, which is an infection of the mammary gland
. Duct ectasia, which is an abnormal dilation of a duct in the breast tissue
. An abscess under the areola
. Complications of breast surgery
. Breast cancer
Breast cancer also causes other breast changes. If a person notices any of these changes, such as a scaly, swollen nipple, or nipple discharge, they should see a doctor.
How do inverted nipples affect sensitivity?
Nipple sensitivity varies from one person to the next, but a person with inverted nipples often experiences the same degree of sensation as a person with protruding nipples.
For most people, inversion does not affect nipple sensitivity.
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When to see a doctor
Nipple inversion typically isn’t cause for concern if it:
. Has been present since childhood or puberty
. Happens gradually, over several years
. Is associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding, or surgery
If you develop inverted nipples for no known reason, see your doctor. In some rare cases, a nipple that begins to turn inward may be a sign of breast cancer. Breast cancer is more treatable when caught in the early stages.
Risk and Complications of inverted nipple surgery
Particular risks and complications related to inverted nipple surgery can include:
. Infection
. Bruising and bleeding
. Formation of hematoma (blood clots)
. Scarring
. Problems related to general anesthetic
. Postoperative pain
. Milk duct damage which may impact on your future ability to breastfeed
. Loss of nipple sensation
. The nipple re-inverting after surgery
. Nipple necrosis (death of tissue). This complication is very rare and is more likely to occur in smokers.
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Do inverted nipples require treatment?
Inverted nipples indent more than they protrude. They can occur on one or both breasts. It’s estimated that 9 to 10 percent of women have at least one inverted nipple. Men can have them, too.
Some nipples only invert sometimes, and can reverse after changes in temperature or stimulation. Others nipples can be permanently inverted. This means that they’ll remain inverted unless you try to reverse them through one of the methods described below.
In most cases, having an inverted nipple won’t affect you. This natural occurrence doesn’t increase your risk for any health complications. And it shouldn’t affect your nipple sensitivity.
During Inverted Nipple Treatment
Inverted nipple treatment
Inverted nipple treatment at home
If you’re looking for a temporary solution, you may want to consider:
. Hoffman technique
The Hoffman technique for drawing out inverted nipples has been in use since the 1950s. To try it:
. Place your thumbs on either side of your nipple. Be sure to place them at the base of the nipple, not the outside of the areola.
. Press firmly into your breast tissue.
. While still pressing down, gently pull your thumbs away from each other.
. Move your thumbs all around the nipple and repeat.
You can do this whenever you’d like for your nipples to protrude, but it isn’t clear how long this effect will last. For best results, practice this technique at least once a day. Regular stimulation may help your nipples protrude more often.
There haven’t been any studies proving whether it’s effective. Everyone’s breasts are different, so try not to get discouraged if this method doesn’t work for you.
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. Suction devices
There are some suction devices promoted for reversing inverted nipples. Most are worn under clothing for extended periods of time.
These products are sold under a variety of names, including:
. Nipple retractors
. Nipple extractors
. Shells
. Cups
These devices usually work by pulling the nipple into a small cup. This stimulates the nipple and makes it protrude.
When used over time, these devices can help loosen the nipple tissue. This can help your nipples remain erect for longer periods of time.
Popular options include:
. Avent Niplette
. Pippetop Inverted Nipple Protractor
. Medela SoftShells for Inverted Nipples
. Supple cups
There hasn’t been any research on the effectiveness of suction devices. Some people may experience nipple protrusion and others may not. Most devices are inexpensive and may be worth a try.
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. Piercings
Nipple piercing is sometimes done to draw out inverted nipples. This is because jewelry worn in the piercing can help keep your nipple in an erect position.
If you’re interested in getting your nipples pierced, do your research. You’ll want to be sure any piercer you choose has a license and experience piercing inverted nipples.
At your appointment, remind your piercer that you have inverted nipples. They’ll likely want to make the room colder to help draw out the nipple. Your piercer may also use nipple clamps to help pull the nipple out.
During this time, your nipples may turn red or feel achy. In most cases, this happens because the nipple is being forced out. This may also make the actual piercing more painful.
It’s important that your nipples are completely drawn out before piercing. If they aren’t, your nipples may invert even after the jewelry is in place.
Once your nipples are completely out, your piercer will use a gauged needle to thread a piece of jewelry through the nipple.
Often, the jewelry used is a stainless steel ring or a barbell. A barbell is held in place with screw-in balls on both ends. This prevents the nipple from sinking back into the breast. You should keep the ring in place for four to six months before switching jewelry.
Men are typically pierced with a 14-gauge needle, and women are typically pierced with a smaller 16-gauge needle. This can vary from person to person, though. Be sure to talk with your piercer about the right size for you.
Not everyone finds piercing effective. It’s important that you weigh your options before getting pierced. Talk to your doctor and potential piercer about the benefits and risks.
If you do decide to get your nipples pierced, note that taking the jewelry out may cause your nipples to invert. To prevent this, avoid leaving the jewelry out for extended periods of time.
Surgery
If you’re looking for something permanent, your only option is surgery.
There are two different types of surgeries: surgery that preserves the milk ducts and surgery that doesn’t.
. Surgery with partial preservation of milk ducts
This is also known as the “parachute flap” technique. Women undergoing this procedure should still be able to breastfeed because some of the milk duct system remains attached. You shouldn’t experience a change in nipple sensation.
Here’s how it works:
. After applying local anesthesia, your doctor will make an incision around the base of your nipple.
. While still attached, the nipple and areola are both lifted from the breast and sewn into a protruding shape.
. Your doctor will then close the incision and apply medicated gauze.
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. Surgery with detached milk ducts
This procedure is more common. Women undergoing this procedure won’t be able to breastfeed because of the removal of the milk ducts. You shouldn’t experience a change in nipple sensation.
Here’s how it works:
. Your doctor will apply local anesthesia before making an incision at the base of the nipple.
. Your milk ducts are then detached. This will allow the nipple to protrude.
. Your doctor will then close the incision and apply medicated gauze.
Each surgical option typically takes one to two hours. You should be able to return home within a few hours of the surgery.
Talk to your doctor about which option is right for you.
Grades of nipple inversion
There are three grades of inverted nipples. The grades determine or describe:
. The degree of inversion
. The likely effect of the inversion on breastfeeding
. The best solution if you want the inversion altered
. Grade 1: Placing your thumb and index finger on the areola and pushing or squeezing gently can pull out the nipple. The nipple will often stay out for some period of time. Stimulation or breastfeeding can also draw the nipple out.
. Grade 2: This grade means it may be more difficult to pull out the nipple than a grade 1 inversion. When released, the nipple retracts inward.
. Grade 3: It’s difficult or impossible to pull the inverted nipple out.
Both the Hoffman technique and suction cups may be more successful for people with grade 1 or 2 inversion. Surgery can typically remove any grade of inversion.
How to determine your grade of nipple inversion
Many people know that they have inverted nipples, but aren’t clear on how inverted their nipples are.
Here’s how to figure it out:
- Take off your shirt and any undergarments you have on.
- While standing in front of a mirror, hold the areola on each breast between your thumb and forefinger.
- Gently press inward. You should firmly press about an inch or so into the breast.
- Take note of how your nipples respond and use this to assess their grade.
You may only experience inversion in one nipple, or even different grades of inversion in each nipple.
After Inverted Nipple Treatment
What is the recovery for nipple inversion surgery?
Directly after surgery you may feel effects from the anesthesia. Most commonly this is expressed as a groggy feeling, which passes relatively quickly, usually within a day. Make sure you have somebody to drive you home.
After the surgery, a protective device and bandage will be placed over the nipple. It is advisable to wear these over the protruding nipple for approximately six weeks to prevent external pressure from causing the nipple to retract.
Most patients experience moderate to mild discomfort, bruising or swelling after surgery. This can be managed with prescribed oral medication. These effects usually peak two to three days after the procedure. In most instances, sutures can be removed after four days. Most patients report all discomfort, swelling and bruising to have subsided after three weeks.
It is likely that you will be able to return to your normal activities, such as work, within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after surgery. However, it is advised that you avoid any strenuous activities for up to one week, although this is usually only a precautionary measure.
Results will be visible immediately, although nipple protrusion may appear to be excessive directly after surgery. In most cases the nipple returns to its usual shape and size after two to four weeks. Most surgeons will offer to take before and after photos for you so you can fully appreciate the results of your surgery.
In the long term, the nipple projection will be permanent and scarring minimal as incisions will have been made around the nipple only. Sensitivity of the nipple is usually not negatively impacted by the surgical procedure. However, it is not possible to guarantee the ability to breastfeed, regardless of the chosen technique of inverted nipple correction.
Scar Care
There are a number of techniques that surgeons may recommend that can aid the healing of the scars following surgery:
. Scar massage – gentle massage of the scar area may benefit healing. This should only be done once the incision has fully healed and the scab has completely disappeared on its own.
. Silicone sheets/gels/creams – using silicone-based products on the scars for six months to one year can help reduce the appearance of scars. Patients may use these products only after the glue or tape from surgery has been taken off, and the incisions have fully healed.
. Avoid exposing the scars to sunlight or sunbeds. Use sunscreen to protect the healing skin and avoid colour differences.
The surgeon will give specific advice regarding the healing and care of your scars.
Can you breastfeed with inverted nipples?
For some women, inverted nipples can make breastfeeding more difficult. Some women find that their baby has a hard time latching onto the nipple to feed. This may be because, due to inversion, the nipple doesn’t become erect.
If you plan to become pregnant or are already breastfeeding, talk with your doctor.
There are some techniques that you can use to help bring the nipple out, including:
. Nipple shields to help the baby latch on
. Breast shields to apply pressure to the nipple, helping it protrude
. Manual nipple stimulation with your hands
You may also find that milk flows better when using a breast pump.
Are inverted nipples less sensitive?
The only difference between inverted and erect nipples is in the contract nerves — not the sensory nerves. Inverted nipples can experience the same sensations as erect nipples. Nipple sensitivity can also vary from person to person.
You may find that you feel more, or less sensation depending on the situation. For example, you may feel more sensation during manual stimulation than when the nipple brushes against the fabric of your bra or shirt.
Are inverted nipples permanent?
Some people may only experience inversion some of the time, and others will experience inversion all the time. Others may find that nipples that once seemed permanently inverted now fluctuate between inverted and erect.
Many women experience inverted nipples during pregnancy, even if their nipples weren’t inverted before becoming pregnant. This is especially true of women who are pregnant for the first time.
Are inverted nipples a sign of cancer?
If you have inverted nipples the possibility that the underlying cause is cancer is very low. Normally inverted nipples are a cosmetic problem that can be resolved with nonsurgical or surgical correction, leaving minimal scar tissue. However, if nipple retraction has occurred recently it is recommended that you arrange for an examination from a breast or plastic surgeon.
You should arrange to see a physician if you have any concerns. In any case it is advisable to have your breasts and nipples examined by a medical professional on a regular basis, especially if you have noted any changes.
10 common question about nipple surgery
Can you surgically change your nipples?: Areola reduction surgery is a relatively simple procedure that can reduce the diameter of one or both of your areolas. It can be performed on its own, or together with a breast lift, a breast reduction, or breast augmentation
What is nipple correction surgery?: An inverted nipple correction is a type of breast surgery that aims to correct nipple inversion. It is important to have a good understanding of the procedure before you have your surgery. This nipple correction overview page will give you a general introduction to the surgery.
How do I get my Inverted nipples to stick out?: Although your nipples may be flat or inverted a lot of the time, when the erectile tissue is stimulated, they stick out. You can encourage them to be more permanently erect by rolling the nipples between thumb and forefinger frequently, perhaps several times a day over a period of time.
How can I lengthen my nipples?: Here are 10 tips to help you breastfeed if your nipples are flat or inverted.
Test yourself. Many nipples will stiffen and protrude when stimulated. …
Use a breast pump. …
Other suction devices. …
Hand express. …
Pull back. …
Try a nipple shield or breast shells. …
Stimulate the nipple. …
Hold your breast.
Will my areola shrink if I lose weight female?: When you lose weight, you may notice they shrink. … These women may not notice as large a shift in breast size when they gain and lose weight as a woman who has a greater proportion of fatty tissue would.
Can Inverted nipples be fixed?: In more severe cases, the nipple cannot be made to protrude manually. If you\’ve had them all your life, inverted nipples are usually harmless, though they can sometimes make breastfeeding more difficult. … Plastic surgery can be done to reverse inverted nipples. A number of different procedures have been used.
Can you pull out inverted nipples?: Only part of the nipple protrudes. The nipple can be pulled out but does not stay that way. Inverted: There are different possible degrees of nipple inversion.
Why are my nipples peeling?: Peeling, scaling, or flaking skin
This is a symptom of breast cancer, but it can also be a symptom of atopic dermatitis, eczema, or another skin condition. After an exam, your doctor may run tests to rule out Paget\’s disease, which is a type of breast cancer affecting the nipples. It can also cause these symptoms.
Can Inverted nipples be corrected without surgery?: Inverted and non-protractile nipples are a common problem which cause psychological distress and interfere with a woman\’s ability to breast feed. A new instrument, the \”Niplette\”, readily corrects the defect without the need for surgery. … The device should replace surgery in medical practice for this common condition.
Why do my nipples get hard when im cold?: \”No one knows, but it\’s probably for the same reason that cold gives you goose bumps. Low temperatures stimulate the tiny muscles attached to your hair follicles, which cause the hairs to stand on end. In other, hairier mammals, this process, known as the pilomotor reflex, can produce a layer of insulation.