Let’s face it, when we experience an inverted nipple, it’s only natural to freak out and presume the worst, and if you’re reading this blog, you might currently have an inverted nipple that is causing you worry. First things first, inverted nipples are far more common than most people realise, and some people even have them from birth, and they are rarely a cause for concern, but we understand that you may be worried or simply want to fix the situation.
At New Birkdale Clinic, we have helped surgically correct inverted nipples, and we know just how much of an impact correction can have in restoring an individual’s confidence.
In this guide, we will give more information on what an inverted nipple is, when to be concerned and how to fix inverted nipples.
What is an Inverted Nipple?
An inverted nipple is where the nipple points inwards towards the breast instead of protruding outwards. Many people are born with inverted nipples, known as congenital inversion, due to their milk ducts naturally being too short or tight, while others may develop the condition due to infection or even something as simple as hormonal changes.
How Common Are Inverted Nipples?
Inverted nipples are more common than you might think, and it is estimated that around 10-20% of the general population has them. In most cases, the condition is completely harmless, but inverted nipples can also be a sign of a more serious medical condition.
The Three Grades of Nipple Inversion
Nipple inversion can be classified into three grades based on severity:
Grade 1
Grade 1 is a mild, easily everted inversion; it typically refers to temporary inversions that resolve on their own or can be easily corrected without medical intervention.
Grade 2
Also known as a moderate inversion, Grade 2 inverted nipples have come with more challenges than Grade 1 inversions. An inverted nipple suction cup is often the solution for correcting Grade 2 inversions, but unfortunately, they tend to retract into the breast tissue once the manipulation stops. These inversions are often due to shortened milk ducts and moderate fibrosis of the underlying connective tissue, leading to recurring issues.
Permanent treatment for Grade 2 inversion usually requires surgical intervention, but it can be temporarily eased with non-surgical solutions.
Grade 3
Grade 3 inversion is the most severe form of nipple inversion and represents nipples with significant retraction that cannot be manually corrected with simple manipulation. Grade 3 inversions are often caused by severely shortened milk ducts and dense fibrous tissue within the breast, which can create discomfort for the sufferer.
Grade 3 inversions can cause hygiene issues, irritation and breastfeeding problems down the line, so it is recommended that you fix it surgically.
When Should You Seek Advice?
If you were not born with inverted nipples and they suddenly appear, it’s understandable that it might be a cause for concern, especially given the fact that inverted nipples can be a sign of cancer. Some instances where you should seek advice concerning your inverted nipples include:
Changes That May Need Medical Attention
Though for the most part inverted nipples are harmless, there are some changes that you should pay attention to, and if you notice them, seek medical support.
Sudden Inversion
If you have never experienced inversion before and you suddenly experience it without explanation, and it doesn’t fix itself, that may be a cause for concern, and you should seek medical advice.
Lump, Pain or Skin Dimpling
If an inversion occurs, feel the breast and look for any lumps, skin dimpling or pain. Lumps in your breast should never be overlooked, and if you notice one, you should seek immediate help.
Discharge
It is unusual for discharge to occur, especially if you have not recently experienced a pregnancy. Discharge is a point for concern, especially if it is clear, brown or bloody. If you notice discharge, seek medical advice as soon as you can.
Skin Change
The texture of your breast or areola can be a clear indication of any possible medical issue. If an inversion happens, keep a close eye on the texture surrounding your nipple, as significant changes may require immediate attention.
When It’s Affecting Your Confidence or Quality of Life
As well as causing medical concerns, inverted nipples can be uncomfortable, both physically and emotionally. If inverted nipples are causing discomfort or are drastically affecting your confidence, don’t be afraid to seek help. Our breast surgery team is experienced in all aspects of nipple and breast correction and can advise on the most appropriate route for you.
Non-Surgical Solutions
If you have Grade 1 nipple inversions and would like a solution that does not require surgery, you can use the following techniques. For a more detailed breakdown of non-surgical options, our blog on how to get inverted nipples to stay out covers each method in full.
Hoffman’s Technique:
For manual relief, you can use Hoffman’s technique. This is a daily exercise where you place your thumbs at the base of the nipple and gently press outward into the areola to stretch the tissue. Eventually, this should help with the inversion.
Suction Devices:
If manual techniques do not suffice, you can use specialised silicone cups to create gentle negative pressure to draw the nipple out over several weeks. Depending on the severity of your inversion, suction devices can be incredibly effective.
Nipple Shells:
Nipple shells are plastic discs worn inside a bra that apply light pressure to the areola, pushing the nipple outward. The gradual pressure of the nipple shell helps the nipples protrude.
Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery
If non-surgical techniques do not work and your inverted nipples are causing discomfort, then inverted nipple correction surgery may be the solution for you, as the results of surgery are often permanent, meaning that you won’t have to constantly manually fix the problem.
When you undergo nipple correction surgery, you can expect the following steps after speaking to a surgeon and being cleared for the procedure:
Anaesthesia
Before the procedure begins, you will be put under local anaesthesia to ensure you don’t experience pain during the operation.
Incision
A slight incision is made around the base of the nipple to carefully release it from the surrounding connective tissues, freeing the inverted nipple and allowing for further surgical procedures or correction as needed.
Closing Up
A stitch or sutures are positioned around the nipple, and a small splint is added to keep the nipple in place while healing and to reduce the chance of future inversion. The splint stays there for approximately 1 week.
Alternatively, the incision may be made inside the breast to split the milk ducts and fibres that are causing the nipple to retract/be inverted. It is important to note that if you choose to split the milk ducts, breastfeeding will not be possible in the future.
Nipple correction can also be carried out alongside other breast surgery procedures such as a breast uplift or breast reduction, and many patients choose to combine treatments to achieve their desired results in a single procedure. If you’d like to understand what results look like, take a look at our areola reduction before and after pictures for examples of nipple correction outcomes.
Find Your Confidence at New Birkdale Clinic
If you are worried about your inverted nipples and you are in need of advice or a surgical solution, you’re in the right place. At New Birkdale Clinic, we can provide the surgical solution you need to escape discomfort and find your confidence.
It is important to remember that if you have noticed any of the warning signs we listed above, you should seek professional medical advice from your GP. However, if the inversion isn’t concerning, we’re here to help.
Contact New Birkdale Clinic today to find out how we can help.
FAQs
Can inverted nipples correct themselves?
In mild cases (Grade 1), inverted nipples can sometimes correct on their own, particularly with stimulation or non-surgical methods such as suction devices or Hoffman’s technique. However, Grade 2 and Grade 3 inversions are unlikely to resolve without intervention and will typically require either ongoing manual correction or permanent surgical treatment.
Does inverted nipple surgery affect breastfeeding?
It depends on the technique used. If the surgeon divides the milk ducts to release the nipple, breastfeeding will not be possible after surgery. However, less invasive approaches can leave the ducts intact. This is an important conversation to have with your surgeon before proceeding, particularly if you plan to have children in the future.
How much does inverted nipple correction cost in the UK?
The cost varies depending on whether one or both nipples are being treated and whether the procedure is performed alongside another surgery, such as a breast enlargement or reduction. At New Birkdale Clinic, prices start from £1,495 for a single nipple correction, but this may change in the future
Is inverted nipple surgery painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery itself. Afterwards, some mild bruising and swelling are normal, but most patients return to work within 3 to 5 days and find the discomfort very manageable.
Are the results of nipple correction surgery permanent?
For the majority of patients, yes. Surgical correction provides a long-lasting result, and in most cases, the nipple will remain everted permanently. There is a small chance of partial recurrence over time, particularly with Grade 2 inversions, but this is uncommon. Your surgeon will discuss realistic expectations with you during your consultation.
