Did you know that about 20% of all women have inverted nipples? There are various causes of inverted nipples:
- Genetics
- Injury or trauma
- Infection
- Weight loss
- Breast cancer
- Pregnancy or a breast feeding complication
Most women are too self-conscious to discuss this issue but at Advanced Liposuction Center we want our clients to know that inverted nipples can be corrected with a safe and simple surgical procedure.
The Procedure
One of our highly trained cosmetic surgeons will first meet with you (the initial consultation is free) to examine your breasts and discuss treatment options. Typically, during the surgery the connective tissue that holds the nipple in place is released and then small, self-dissolving sutures are used to keep the nipple forward. The procedure requires only one small incision. Scarring is very minimal and in most cases the natural color and texture of the areolas will hide the scar.
Recovery
Nipple correction is done with local anesthesia and patients report that they experience only slight discomfort for a few days following the surgery. Most patients find that they are able to return to work in 2-3 days. Jobs that require heavy physical labor and exercise routines require a 2-3 week wait.
The Results
The biggest concern most women who have inverted nipples face is the ability to breastfeed their babies. In most cases, nipple correction surgery allows this to happen naturally and comfortably. Nipple correction can also benefit women who have undergone a mastectomy and have then had reconstructive breast surgery. Nipple reconstruction can give reconstructed breasts a more natural look and feel. Fat transfer or grafting can be used for this procedure to rebuild the nipple using your own tissue.
What Are Side Effects Of Inverted Nipple Surgery?
Surgery for inverted nipples is extremely safe, and the only side effects patients commonly report are edoema and sensitivity.
The procedure carries some risks, but they are uncommon. These include infection, poor scarring, sensation changes, and recurrence.
What are the potential long-term effects and benefits of inverted nipple correction?
Potential long-term effects and benefits of inverted nipple correction surgery may include:
- Improved Aesthetic Appearance: One of the primary benefits is the improvement in the aesthetic appearance of the nipples. Inverted nipple correction can result in nipples that project outward, creating a more symmetrical and natural look.
- Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem: Many individuals with inverted nipples may experience self-consciousness or concerns about their appearance. Correcting inverted nipples can boost self-esteem and confidence.
- Enhanced Clothing Options: After surgery, individuals may feel more comfortable and confident wearing certain types of clothing that they may have avoided before the correction.
- Positive Impact on Intimacy: For some individuals, inverted nipple correction can positively impact intimate relationships by reducing self-consciousness and enhancing body image.
- Potential for Improved Breastfeeding: While not guaranteed, some individuals may find that inverted nipple correction improves the ability to breastfeed. However, this varies depending on individual factors and the specific surgical technique used.
How long does the surgery usually take, and is it performed as an outpatient procedure?
The duration of inverted nipple correction surgery can vary based on the complexity of the case and the specific surgical technique used. Generally, the procedure typically takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Inverted nipple correction is often performed as an outpatient procedure. This means that the patient can go home on the same day as the surgery. The use of local anesthesia, sedation, or a combination of both is common for this type of surgery, contributing to the feasibility of performing it on an outpatient basis.
Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure, as they may experience some postoperative effects of anesthesia. Recovery time and the ability to resume normal activities will depend on individual factors, and the surgeon will provide specific postoperative care instructions to optimize healing.
Who Are A Good Candidate For Inverted Nipple Surgery?
The inverted nipple procedure can help women who have somewhat or completely inverted nipples.
Occasionally, nipple inversion may be linked to breast disease or another health problem; in this instance, your doctor will advise you to schedule an appointment.
Because the milk ducts are often released during the treatment, the ability to breastfeed may be significantly reduced after having the inverted nipple surgery.
This is often not a problem, though, as the majority of women with inverted nipples are unable to nurse.
Inverted nipples are nothing to be embarrassed about. If you are over 18, in good overall health and are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding, a nipple correction procedure can help improve appearance and help your breasts to be better able to breastfeed when the time comes. To learn more, contact any of our conveniently located Pittsburgh area offices by calling: 724-683-7581 today.