I had a breast reduction and I’m happy with the results except for my inverted nipples, can they be corrected? (Photos)

Hi CGwife

It is estimated around 10% of women have at least one inverted nipple. There are varying degrees of this condition, as some inverted nipples can be reversible with stimulation, changes in temperature, or suction cups while others cannot. The most common underlying causes of inverted nipples are short ducts and other tethering tissues that pull the nipple inward. To learn more about this procedure, please visit our website.

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  This can be treated with a small in-office procedure under local anesthesia and I would advocate seeing an ASPS board certified plastic surgeon in consultation to discuss.  Best wishes!

Inverted nipples are very common and can be easily corrected as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. It is a painless procedure with a very small incision. In the process the breast ducts to the nipple are detached, therefore breast feeding would not be possible after correction.

Hi and thanks for your photos-Its great that you're happy with your breast reduction- it's such a high satisfaction procedure. Inverted nipples do sometimes get worse after reduction and i would not consider that a complication. It would be a simple office procedure under local anesthesia to finish your breast makeover and correct your inverted nipples. There are various different techniques, but all can be done under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort, tiny scars, and good results. Your reduction surgeon should be able to advise you- i would start there.Best wishes-

You may like to try a suction device called a 'Niplette'. These can be purchased over the internet. Use it carefully and do not over do it to start with as I have seen people maker the nipples bleed by using it too long too quickly. Some people have success with this although you will need to persevere and may need to do 'top-ups' in the future. However if it works for you it is simpler and cheaper than an operation. 

There is also a suction device that you can try if you want to try and avoid surgery.  It does not always work and if surgery is chosen it is a relatively simple procedure that can be done under a local anaesthetic.  The scars from the surgery are usually of good quality.  Best wishes.

That is a great question.  Inverted nipples are due to shortening of the nipple ducts.  These can be treated with a relatively simple procedure in the office by an experienced plastic surgeon,  I like a microincision technique. .The procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes about an hour.  I have my patients wear a stent or support for 1 weeks and then protect the nipple correction with a gauze pad for 6 more weeks.  The nipple retraction was probably present in your photos before your reduction but not as bothersome.  It may be most helpful for you to call a few offices of board certified plastic surgeons nearby and ask to see some photos of before and after patients. We are on the other side of the coast in Boston.  I do have patients that have flown in for this procedure but I would guess that you can find someone closer to wear you live.  Good luck, and I hope this helps.