Both males and females can be born with inverted nipples, but the condition is most prevalent in women. One or both nipples can be affected. Inverted nipples can result from an abnormal structure of the nipple, surrounding skin, or the underlying tissue. Sometimes the condition is resolved during pregnancy or puberty. For other women, pregnancy or puberty is when inverted nipples appear.

How do inverted nipples develop?

Young women with short breast ducts are more prone to inverted nipples because the nipple hasn’t sufficient room to fully extend. In some cases, the nipple remains bound inside the breast tissue. Inverted nipples can also develop when breast tissue is extracted near the nipple for a biopsy, and scar tissue forms, causing a permanent obstruction.

Can breastfeeding cause inverted nipples?

Extreme fluctuation in breast size and increased laxity can make nipples look inverted. However, many women who breastfeed claim that their nipples are more pronounced.

Are inverted nipples the sign of an underlying medical problem?

Typically a cosmetic issue, on rare occasions, inverted nipples have been linked to breast cancer. In addition, mastitis appears to be more frequent in breasts with inverted nipples. If you notice your nipples becoming inverted for no apparent reason, if it appears at an older age, or if you experience bleeding or discharge, contact Dr. Philip Richardson to schedule a consultation.

Inverted nipple correction in Brisbane is a minor surgical procedure that can be performed in the office under local anesthesia with a short recovery time. It can also be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as breast mastopexy, breast augmentation mammoplasty, or breast reduction mammoplasty.

What is inverted nipple correction in Brisbane?

There are different levels of inverted nipples and a variety of methods used for inverted nipple correction in Brisbane. At Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Richardson uses the least invasive technique possible to correct the problem. It is common for inverted nipples to recur after being repaired. This is why multiple treatment methods have been developed.

What should I expect during nipple repair surgery?

Inverted nipple repair usually involves stretching or releasing of the breast ducts and assisting the nipple forward to prohibit scar tissue from drawing the nipple back inward. A small incision is made just below the nipple to access the breast ducts. The constraining tissue is released and sutures are often used to rearrange breast tissues beneath the skin and stabilize the nipple while healing takes place. A steel nipple bar is then inserted and worn for six weeks.

Is it possible to breastfeed with inverted nipples?

Breast milk is drawn to the nipple through the short ducts that bind the nipple and cause inversion. If you want to breastfeed, the best course of action is to wait until after you have achieved inverted nipple correction in Brisbane. But keep in mind, the process of releasing the inverted nipple might require cutting through your milk ducts. This procedure may make it difficult for you to breast feed in the future. Inverted nipples can be challenging for an infant to latch on to, but not impossible. In addition, you may be able to use a breast pump properly with inverted nipples.

If you are interested in learning more about Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery and the benefits of inverted nipple correction surgery, please contact us online or call 1300 789 240 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Richardson.