Inverted nipples can cause embarrassment or self-consciousness, as well as functional difficulties with breast-feeding or erogenous sensations. As part of a Mommy Makeover, women can also have their nipples corrected if they notice they are becoming increasingly inverted after having children. The inverted nipple correction is able to improve the projection and aesthetics of the nipples.
An inverted nipple (occasionally invaginated nipple) is a condition where the nipple, instead of pointing outward, is retracted into the breast. In some cases, the nipple will be temporarily protruded if stimulated. Many patients are born with inverted nipples. These may get worse with advancing age. Inverted nipples may cause cosmetic concerns and can interfere with breastfeeding.
The sudden appearance of inverted nipples can be a sign of possible breast cancer. You should consult your doctor if this applies to you.
For patients who wish to address what may have been a lifelong concern, inverted nipple correction offers a wide range of benefits. By projecting the nipples outward, the shape and appearance of the nipples can be improved significantly.
There are many operations described for inverted nipples. One of the most conservative and effective operations is the use of nipple piercing. This can be performed under local or general anesthetic.
A 'barbell' device is passed from 3 to 9 o’ clock. This stretches the contracted nipple ducts. The piercing has to be left in continuously for 6 months. Once removed the ducts remain in their stretched state, so correcting the inverted nipples.
Mild degrees of inverted nipples can also be corrected with breast augmentation. The correction is produced by the implant pushing the breast tissue forward, effectively increasing the length of the tethered and shortened ducts.
Other techniques rely on cutting the ducts and are therefore more likely to impair breastfeeding. These techniques are used usually only after the piercing technique has failed. As the piercing technique is the least destructive to the ducts, it is also less likely to result in permanent or excessive scarring. There is also a lower incidence of sensory loss.
Furthermore, this technique is less likely to permanently damage or divide the milk ducts. It is therefore, the technique that is least likely to interfere with breastfeeding. It should be noted that even with surgery, some patients may not be able to breastfeed successfully. This is especially so, if they have the more severe grades of an inverted nipple and this may be the case with or without surgery.
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