Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery
While inverted nipples don’t pose any medical problems besides difficulty with breastfeeding, they can be a source of insecurity for some individuals who have them. They are usually hereditary, and they occur when abnormally short or tight milk ducts are connected to the inside of the nipple's skin, pulling the skin inward. This problem can occur on one or both sides, and can have levels of severity.
Dr. Robert Cohen performs inverted nipple correction surgery at his Beverly Hills plastic surgery practice for those who want to change their inverted nipples to protrude outward.
If you’re interested in an inverted nipple correction surgery, Dr. Cohen would be very happy to speak with you and answer any questions about the procedure you may have. Request a consultation or call (310) 288-0641 to schedule an appointment.
Types of Inverted Nipples
When you see Dr. Cohen for your consultation, he will determine which level of nipple inversion you are. The level of inversion goes between 1-3:
Level 1:
This is the most minor level of nipple inversion, and is determined when the nipple responds to stimulation. Generally, the nipple is everted, but it can be inverted on occasion.
Level 2:
This is when the nipple remains inverted most of the time——but can be pulled out with some pressure.
Level 3:
This is the most “severe” nipple inversion. This is when the nipple remains inverted no matter how much pressure is applied.
Beverly Hills Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery
With inverted nipple correction surgery, there are two different types of procedures. One preserves the milk ducts, and one does not.
The type of procedure that partially preserves the milk ducts is referred to as the “duct sparing” technique. This helps women to still be able to breastfeed even after the surgery but is associated with a higher risk of re-inversion after surgery.
The type of procedure that does not leave the milk ducts intact is called the “detached duct” technique. Because the abnormal mild ducts are detached with this technique, patients will not be able to breastfeed afterward, however the results are almost always permanent and successful.
Dr. Cohen will take the time to discuss your personal goals and options, and will be sure to explain everything carefully so that you fully understand your options when it comes to your Beverly Hills inverted nipple correction surgery.
Surgical details about Inverted Nipple Correction
If you’re having inverted nipple correction surgery with a nipple sparing technique, Dr. Cohen will make a tiny incision at the base of your nipple. Some of the ducts are divided and some are simply stretched. An internal purse string suture is then placed to stabilize the nipple position. The incision will then be closed with a single suture.
With the more commonly performed procedure where the abnormal ducts are completely divided, the surgery is essentially the same except since all the ducts are cut, there is less internal pull on the nipple so it is less likely to re-invert.
Inverted Nipple Surgery Recovery
The recovery process from inverted nipple correction is fairly quick, lasting around 1-3 days. Patients typically feel up to continuing their regular daily activities 1-2 days following their procedure, however, you should avoid more strenuous activities for up to one week. This surgery can be combined with another breast surgery such as breast augmentation when desired.
Patients may experience some minor swelling and bruising; however, any pain can be easily controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
What to expect with Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery
Results from inverted nipple correction surgery are visible immediately, although keep in mind that the nipple protrusion may appear to be excessive right after the procedure. Nipples should look normal within 2-4 weeks.
The results will generally last a lifetime if performed by a skilled, experienced surgeon such as Dr. Cohen. Individuals who have this procedure done tend to gain more and more confidence as their bodies recover and they see the outcome they desired.