Inverted nipples can be a source of concern for some people, while for others they may not cause any issues at all.
This is because the experience of nipple inversion varies widely. Some individuals have a more pronounced form, known as grade 3 nipple inversion, while others may only have a very mild inversion, referred to as grade 1.
Those with more severe inversion are often more inclined to consider nipple correction surgery. This is not only because the appearance of their nipples may affect their confidence, but also because severe inversion can sometimes interfere with breastfeeding.
On the other hand, people with mild nipple inversion may feel less need to pursue treatment. Their nipples are usually not noticeable to others, and their ability to breastfeed is often unaffected.
So, what can be done if someone wishes to correct inverted nipples? From surgical to non-surgical options, there are several ways to encourage the nipples to evert. Keep reading to explore the available treatments.
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If your nipple inversion is mild, there are several non-surgical options that may help improve their appearance.
One of the simplest methods is stimulation. Gently rolling the nipple between your fingers or applying light pressure to the areola can sometimes encourage the nipple to protrude temporarily.
Another option is suction, which can be achieved using a breast pump or a specialised suction device. The gentle vacuum created can help draw the nipple outward, and you don’t need to be breastfeeding to try this technique.
If you’d prefer to avoid surgery, there are several alternative approaches that may help correct inverted nipples. These methods are generally more effective for mild to moderate cases:
If you’re considering any of these options, it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or surgeon to determine the most suitable and safe approach for your individual situation.
Inverted nipple correctors are specialised devices designed to help draw out inverted nipples without the need for surgery. You may see them referred to as nipple extractors, nipple cups, or nipple retractors.
These devices work by creating gentle suction around the areola, usually for a longer period of time than what a breast pump would provide. Some correctors are discreet enough to be worn under clothing, allowing you to continue your daily activities while using them.
It’s important to note that nipple correctors are generally most effective for mild cases of inversion (grade 1). Even then, the results may be temporary rather than permanent.
For individuals with mild nipple inversion, piercing can sometimes be used as an unconventional method to help keep the nipple everted. The process involves stimulating the nipple so that it protrudes, then placing a piercing to hold it in position.
While this may seem like a simple solution, it is not a guaranteed or permanent fix. Once the jewellery is removed, the nipple may return to its inverted position, and in some cases, scar tissue could make the inversion more pronounced.
It’s also important to weigh the potential risks associated with body piercings, including infection, pain, delayed healing, and possible interference with breastfeeding.
Most clinics recommend waiting until you are at least 18 years old before seeking treatment for inverted nipples. This is because during the teenage years, the breasts are still developing, and changes in shape and structure are ongoing.
By waiting until breast development is complete, you give any treatment—whether surgical or non-surgical—a better chance of being effective and achieving longer-lasting results.
At Kat & Co, inverted nipple correction is a straightforward procedure designed to release the nipple so it can project outward. During surgery, a small incision is made at the base of the nipple to free it from the surrounding tissue, before carefully re-stitching it into a more natural position.
The procedure is typically carried out under local anaesthesia (so the area is numb but you remain awake) or twilight sedation (a light form of general anaesthetic). It is performed as a day case, meaning you can return home the same day and resume most normal activities almost immediately.
Scarring is usually minimal, but it’s important to understand that breastfeeding cannot be guaranteed afterwards. This is because the procedure often involves cutting the milk ducts, which means they may no longer remain intact.
As with all cosmetic surgery, it’s essential to have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the potential risks, such as infection, scarring, or reinversion. At Kat & Co, our specialist surgeons will guide you through the process, explaining the likely results, alternatives, and risks so that you can make an informed decision about whether nipple correction surgery is right for you.
