Inverted nipples @19?

Question

hello! so to start off. I have always found my nipples to be strange. It’s because they never pop out like other normal people’s nipples. So I just keep that fact to myself and it keeps bugging me and stressing me. Every time I try to google it the first thing that pops up is BREAST CANCER! However, the only thing that makes me feel less anxious is that my nipples have always been that way since the beginning but I thought they would change after puberty.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

That is similar to when people bump their elbow and google elbow pain and it comes back as elbow cancer! At 19 it would be very uncommon to have breast cancer. It is true that breast cancer can appear as blood coming from your nipple or a change in your nipple but your nipples don't sound like they have changed very much from the onset so cancer would be extremely unlikely.

Your best option is to go see your primary care doctor and get an exam and make sure all is fine and then it might be prudent to see a plastic surgeon who has some experience with correction of inverted nipples which may be your case. It is hard to say without photos but from your description that may be your issue. If it is then depending on the degree of inversion you might be a candidate to have some of the tissue that is keeping your nipple from popping out removed or cut--like cutting guitar strings--and allow your nipple to 'pop' out.

Phillip Chang, MD · Answer

Hi jessicaannabele2001

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.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  It is certainly possible to have inverted nipples at 19 and this can often be treated with a small in-office procedure.  Be sure to seek out a specialist for this, however.

Steven Mapula, MD · Answer

If your nipples are inverted on both sides , its unlikely to be cancer. However, its always prudent to get checked out if there is ANY concern. The surgery for inverted nipple repair is relatively simple and can be done by most board certified plastic surgeons

Inverted nipples @19?

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Answer: Inverted Nipples

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Everything you need to know about Inverted Nipple Surgery

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Inverted nipples @19?

Answers (4)

Answer: Inverted Nipples

Answer: Inverted Nipples

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Inverted Nipple Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.