Is it possible for nipples to be put back upside down? I think my left is upside down. Is this normal? Common?

Question

I had my nipples peirced. And there was marks from where barbells were, that's how I am able to tell my nipple was placed upside. Is this normal?

John Paletta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Yes, this definitely happens. It depends on where the blood supply to the nipple is maintained. If the blood supply that is preserved is directly above or below the nipple then there is little or no rotation. However, if the blood supply is from the side then it must be rotated into the new, higher position. Hope this helps.

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is a good question and I believe you will help other patients with nipple piercings to ask the question to their surgeons.It is usually not an issue but since you had a horizontal piercing in the past, now the tract has likely been rotated.  When performing a breast lift and/or reduction, the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is incised and moved up.  The NAC rests on a pedicle of tissue where the blood vessels are located to bring oxygen to your NAC.  There are various pedicles your plastic surgeon can choose and there are also rules that we follow.  A straight superior pedicle would not change your nipple-areola orientation but we cannot always use the superior pedicle (if too long for example).  So likely your surgeon used a medial or lateral or combination pedicle, hence your nipple has rotated.To turn the areola back to their original orientation is somewhat a not-so-safe procedure now (has to do with blood vessels and the possibility your NAC necroses) so repiercing them is likely a better alternative now.Again, for anyone with no piercing, it is never an issue.Hope this helps.Kind regards,Dr. Marc DuPere, aesthetic plastic surgeon.

Is it possible for nipples to be put back upside down? I think my left is upside down. Is this normal? Common?

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Is it possible for nipples to be put back upside down? I think my left is upside down. Is this normal? Common?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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