Non-Surgical Inverted Nipple Correction

What is an Inverted Nipple and why does it need to be corrected?

An inverted nipple is an irregularity in which a woman’s nipples point more inwards than outwards. The constriction may be caused by shortened milk ducts, a reduction in breast tissue, or a combination of the two. Inverted nipples are not typically considered a health issue, but they can be cosmetically embarrassing, reducing a woman’s self-confidence and quality of life. However, if the inverted nipple(s) appear slowly over a short period or suddenly, this could indicate a pathological change, such as breast cancer.

Correction of inverted nipples aims to improve the appearance of the breasts by increasing the projection of one or both nipples to make them more symmetrical and normal in appearance.

There are 3 grades of nipple inversion, depending on its severity:

• Grade 1: The nipple is inverted under the areola but can be manipulated to protrude. Breastfeeding is usually possible.
• Grade 2: The nipple is inverted under the areola but can only be forcefully manipulated to temporarily protrude. Breastfeeding may be possible.
• Grade 3: Even with vigorous stimulation, the nipple remains inverted. Here, the nipple remains buried in the areola and surgery is required to rebalance the muscle pull.

How is an Non-surgical Inverted Nipple Correction performed?

Note:
Non-Surgical Inverted Nipple Correction is only suitable for GADE 1 and Grade 2 nipple inversion.
Grade 3 nipple inversion need to be surgical correction as it is required to rebalance the muscle pull.

The procedure is always performed under local anaesthesia. A needle-punched hole (1-2mm) is placed at the base of the nipple so that no much visible scarring after the treatment. Through the punched hole, the fibres of the milk duct will be stretched with a blunt needle to release the nipple and create an outward protrusion. Absorbable sutures will be strategically placed around the base of the nipple underneath the skin to ensure the nipple continues to protrude after the procedure. No stitches are applied to the skin for the small needle hole. A special padding dressing is placed over the nipple area. You can go home half an hour after the procedure.

What happens in the Postoperative Period?

Immediate results can be seen after the procedure. You can see your nipples protrude straight away. The recovery process takes 5-7 days. Some minor swelling and bruising may occur, and mild pain can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication for the first day or two. Patients usually feel like resuming their regular daily activities 1-2 days following the operation. Your doctor will see you 3-4 days after your procedure to ensure your healing process is going well and to avert any possible complications before they become a problem.

Are there any Risks associated with this Procedure?

Cosmetic procedures carry formal risks; they are not “simple beauty treatments.”

Like any other procedure, inverted nipple correction has risks and complications:

Common Risks and Complications:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Visible scarring/keloid
• Pain
• Treatment area hard/firm/lumpy/numbness/tightness
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Hematoma

Rare Risks and Complications:

• Deformation
• Asymmetry
• Muscle or nerve injury
• Anaesthetic anaphylaxis reaction