Inverted nipples are fairly common, affecting maybe as many as 1 in 10 women. The problem of inverted nipples is purely cosmetic, but it can cause functional problems for women and emotional concerns. An inverted nipple can look flat or a slit like depression or hole at the normal nipple location.

 

 

 

There are different degrees or grades of nipple inversion. Correction of inverted nipples depends on the problem but can usually be done with a simple 20 minute procedure.

 

Inverted Nipple Grade 1:
The inverted nipple is easily pulled out, maintains its projection fairly well without traction. Gentle finger pressure around the areola or gently pinching the skin causes the nipple to pop back out.

Inverted Nipple Grade 2:
The inverted nipple can be pulled out, but not as easily as in Grade I. After releasing traction, the nipple tends to fall back and invert again.

Inverted Nipple Grade 3:
The nipple is severely retracted and inverted. It is difficult to physically force this nipple out and hold it there.

The Surgery: This surgery can usually be done in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Dr. Benchetrit uses different surgical techniques to fix inverted nipples but the most common one involves a small incision at the inverted nipple areola junction gives access to the tethered “bands” to be released.

 

Dr. Benchetrit typically performs this inverted nipple tissue release below the surface so that the nipple gains a good degree of projection and the scar remains inconspicuous. Dissolving sutures complete the nipple sculpture.  Do expect some swelling and bruising after nipple inversion.

 

After Surgery: Nipple protrusion is permanent after the surgery, i.e. the nipples do not go “in or out” depending on stimulation, temperature etc. If nipple inversion recurs or asymmetry is significant, a second procedure may be needed.

 

Getting back to Normal:  The temporary effects of inverted nipple surgery can include loss of breast sensation or numbness. Some permanent loss of nipple sensation is possible. The ability to breast feed after any surgery for inverted nipples cannot be guaranteed. All operations have some risk. During your consultation, Dr.Benchetrit will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery.