What is Nipple Inversion?
Nipple inversion is a condition where the nipple does not protrude from the breast as it is supposed to. Nipple inversion may occur in different grades, sometimes affecting only one nipple and sometimes both. Sometimes the nipple will protrude in certain situations but is primarily inverted, other times it will always be inverted.
Inverted nipples are very common. They occur when the nipple does not project normally because the ducts leading to the nipple are overly tight. This causes the nipple to be pulled into the surrounding areola.
Inverted nipples can be corrected with a minor surgical procedure. This minor procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic, although some patients prefer to be totally asleep under a general anesthetic. In either case there is no pain during the procedure. In this operation a very small incision is placed along the edge of the nipple. The overly tight ducts, which are the cause of the inversion, are then gently released. This allows the nipple to immediately project normally.
After undergoing inverted nipple correction, patients can see the improvement right away. Small absorbable suture is then placed along the edge of the incision.
