Inverted Nipple

Posted Tuesday, May 13, 2008 to PROCEDURES > Body

Posted by Tom Pousti, M.D.

Correction of inverted nipples

·         Grade 1. Nipples are inverted but can become everted manually (through stimulation) or in response to cold temperature. They can remain everted for some time. Milk ducts are usually not compromised and breast feeding is possible. These are "shy nipples".

·         Grade 2. Nipples are inverted and are more difficult to evert. The eversion almost never lasts - the nipple returns to the inverted state immediately. Breast feeding could be possible, but this is not a sure thing.

·         Grade 3. Nipples are severely inverted and never evert. Milk ducts are often constricted and breast feeding is impossible. Women with Grade 3 inverted nipples may also struggle with infections, rashes, or problems with nipple hygiene.

Patient’s are happy to hear that inverted nipple procedures are minimally invasive and can be performed in conjunction with other procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lifting or breast reduction surgery (for both men and women). This procedure is performed in our outpatient surgery center under either local or general anesthesia. 

The surgery consists of a small incision at the base of the nipple.   Milk ducts are identified and divided – this allows the nipple to remain spontaneously everted. A suture is used to support the eversion and closure of the suture line is accomplished. Usually, only dissolving sutures are necessary.

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