Inverted nipple correction is a minor surgical procedure used to turn out inverted nipples to their normal protruded appearance. It is a much sought-after operation for women who suffer from inverted nipples, especially where it precludes them from being able to breast-feed properly. Inverted nipples are also a cause of emotional distress for some women. While it is a common procedure for women to undertake, men too have been known to undergo surgery in order to correct their inverted nipple problem.

How does it work?
Surgery to correct the nipple involves a surgeon making a small incision in the areola around the base of the nipple. The nipple and underlying tissue is then raised and stitched into a pinched or protruded position, while preserving or partially preserving the milk ducts. If breast-feeding is of no concern, a surgeon may simply detach the milk ducts from the inverted nipple during surgery, making normal nipple protrusion much easier to achieve. Dressing is applied to the area once the operation has taken place.

How long does surgery take?
Inverted nipple correction surgery is a swift procedure to perform. It normally takes about half an hour to complete under a local anaesthetic as a day patient.

What is the recovery time?
Full recovery is achieved within approximately 2 weeks, although scarring make take many months to fade. Dressing can normally be removed within 7 - 10days.

How long will it last?
Inverted nipple surgery produces permanent results.

Are there any side effects?
Bruising and swelling of the nipple and breast area is likely after surgery. Breasts may remain sore for several days before the pain gradually subsides. Importantly, while the surgeon makes every effort to preserve milk ducts where required during the procedure, some or all of the ducts may not survive surgery.