Can the deep hole in the middle of my nipple be corrected? (photos)

Question

I am a 23 year old female, who had an inverted nipple all my life up until I got it pierced about 3-4 years ago. It helped Keep it protruded until I got pregnant and my nipple started rejecting the piercing. Which led it to causing a literal hole in the middle of my nipple. Mind you it’s been close to 2 and half years since I’ve taken out the piercing. I also breastfed so I don’t know if that’s what caused the hole to worsen.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

The infection of your piercing (not a rejection process) created scar tissue that contracted and shortened your already tight milk ducts. This type 1 inverted nipple can be easily corrected in the office with a minor surgery.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Changes during pregnancy and breast feeding may affect piercing holes. It should not be a big problem to address once breast feeding is completed. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon is recommended.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.   Yes, this can be corrected.  The most common reason for an inverted nipple is that the ducts to your nipple are too short.  This can be corrected with a very minor procedure that I do in my office with a small incision at the border of the areola.  The ducts which are too short are cut and sutures are placed to keep the nipple everted.  The obvious downside to this procedure is potentially not being able to breast feed any longer.   Another possible side effect is numbness of the nipple as some of the nerves to the nipple run alongside of the ducts.   So, I always recommend waiting until you are finished breast feeding before undergoing this procedure.

Can the deep hole in the middle of my nipple be corrected? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Nipple Surgery

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

Can the deep hole in the middle of my nipple be corrected? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Nipple Surgery

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