Nipple inversion, inverted nipples, or retracted nipples are present where the nipple does not protrude from the breast as it would normally do, giving it some sort of projection from the areolar skin. There are various forms and grades of nipple inversion, it may be on e nipple only, or both nipples. Sometimes the nipple will protrude in certain situations but is usually inverted, other times it will always be inverted. Whatever your particular nipple inversion situation is, Dr Stasch can provide his expertise to correct inverted or other problems with your nipple.
How does an inverted nipple occur?
Some women are born with inverted nipples. In others, changes in the breast after breast feeding can cause nipple inversion. Sometimes, surgery can lead to inverted nipples, if there were problems with the technique or the wound healing. In uncommon instances, the nipple inversion or retraction may be caused by an underlying breast cancer – usually this would happen on one side only.
The operation to correct an inverted nipple is done as an outpatient procedure:
Usually, correcting nipple irregularities can be done under local anaesthetic. Often we correct nipples as part of another surgical procedure, such as tummy tuck, mummy makeover, or other breast surgery.
As soon as the nipple area is numb from the anesthetic, we release the underlying tissues that may pull the nipple inwards. Dr Stasch achieves this by making a small incision underneath the retracted nipple. This releases the tension from the fibrous bands and ducts in the breast that may be causing the problem. The nipple then can be pulled into the everted state, and be secured with dressings to prevent retraction at a later stage during healing.
Results are almost immediate and our patient satisfaction is very high.
Whats the downtime after a nipple inversion correction procedure?
Since it is a minor procedure, recovery after Nipple inversion correction should not take longer than two or three days. Going back to work and performing other activities is usually possible immediately. Some discomfort and redness around the bandaged area for a few days are common, but we will perform regular dressing changes in order to watch the healing closely.
The procedure may require transection of milk ducts, which could possibly impede future breastfeeding. This is however only necessary in severe cases of nipple inversion.
Other Nipple correction procedures like changing the size, shape or location of the nipples on the breast would require an additional procedure or procedures.
