What is an inverted nipple?
This is a condition where the nipple, instead of pointing outward, is retracted toward the breast. This can occur in both men and women and affects 10 – 20% of the population. There are a number of potential causes for this condition; some people are born this way and some people can develop inverted nipples as a result of an underlying condition. If you haven’t had inverted nipples since childhood or puberty, you should speak with a health care professional. If you are over 50 and your areola appears distorted and your nipple appears flatter than normal, or has become inverted, get screened for breast cancer immediately.
Plastic surgery is one way of protracting inverted nipples; if someone elects to have cosmetic surgery to help correct this condition this would be a short outpatient procedure involving a local anesthetic. A tiny incision would be made to release the fibrous tissue to allow the nipple to protract more easily. A medicated gauze would be used following the surgical procedure to cover the nipples and would be removed prior to your first shower. You would be able to go home the same day and because it is a minimally invasive procedure you would probably be able to return to work the following day. You would then follow up with your physician one week after the procedure to have the suture removed.
If you would like to learn more about this procedure or have any questions answered please give Dr. Richard Lee’s office a call at (949)548-9312.
