I have inverted nipples. Would I be able to breastfeed if I have surgery to bring them out? (Photo)

Question

Would my nipple still be sexually sensitive to the touch after the procedure? Looking at also getting a breast lift with very minimal scarring.

Phillip Chang, MD · Answer

Hi Exuberant913124

As with any surgery, there are associated risks.  Only you can decide whether a nipple inversion correction can achieve your goals and whether the recovery and risks are acceptable to you.  Because of the nature of the skin of the nipple, the scars are essentially invisible. The milk ducts, are partially spared.  Some but not all  women can still breastfeed after the procedure. For more information about this procedure, please visit our website.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. 
Breastfeeding potential can be affected by inverted nipples correction surgery since the milk ducts are divided in order to correct the tethered nipple deformity. Nipple sensation typically remains intact but may change as well. 
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to further discuss your options, concerns and expectations.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. Although sensation is preserved with an inverted nipple correction, there is no certainty with either a breast lift, or breastfeeding potential as there is a small risk with the former of losing partial or full sensation while a certain percentage of women are unable to breastfeed for the latter.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Exuberant913124,
Numbness is very common. It depends on the operation but often times sensation can return in a couple of weeks, a year, or not at all.  Nipple sensation itself is very important and can sometimes be lost with breast surgery. This is often mentioned in the risks of the consent process. The same goes for breastfeeding ability.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Exuberant,It does not appear that you have significant nipple inversion.  There is a possibility that both breast feeding and nipple sensation can be affected with correction of inverted nipples.  Good luck!

I have inverted nipples. Would I be able to breastfeed if I have surgery to bring them out? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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