An inverted nipple is a nipple that is retracted into the breast instead of protruding. This feature is most often present since puberty. It is due to milk ducts that are too short and to fibrous bands that hold the nipple back. It can affect one breast or both. It can be a concern for aesthetic reasons, for hygiene or for breastfeeding. Surgery releases the nipple and holds it in position.
How the procedure unfolds
In practice
- In consultation, I analyse your request.
- I examine your nipples: the degree of inversion and whether they can be brought out by hand.
- I also collect information about your state of health and your breast history.
- An inversion that appeared recently, on one breast only, requires breast imaging before any procedure.
- We take photographs for your medical record.
- I give you all the information about the surgery and give you an estimate.
A second consultation is mandatory before any procedure. You must stop smoking at least one month before the procedure.
Surgery
The procedure is most often performed under local anaesthesia, at the Clinique Pasteur in Toulouse, on an outpatient basis. General anaesthesia can be proposed if the procedure is combined with another breast surgery.
- I make a small incision at the base of the nipple.
- I release the fibrous bands that hold it back.
- I then place stitches to hold the nipple in position.
The scar measures a few millimetres and generally becomes barely visible. The procedure generally lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour. A protective dressing prevents any compression of the nipple during the first weeks.
Postoperative effects
Pain is generally mild.
- Swelling and small bruises may appear around the nipple. They fade within a few days to two weeks.
- You can return to normal activity the next day.
- Sport can be resumed after two to three weeks.
- The sensitivity of the nipple may be changed for several months.
- A recurrence of the inversion is possible.
The final result can be assessed after a few months. I see you again at a follow-up consultation.
Breastfeeding
Depending on the technique used, the milk ducts may be cut. Breastfeeding may then become difficult or impossible. We discuss this in consultation, especially if you plan a pregnancy. In some cases, it is preferable to wait until pregnancies are over.
What to do to optimize the result?
- Do not smoke: tobacco slows healing.
- Keep the protective dressing as recommended.
- Avoid any pressure on the nipples during the first weeks: soft bra, without underwire.
- Protect the scar from the sun during the first year.
Social security coverage
Correction of inverted nipples is generally not covered by social security. Coverage may exist in some cases. We discuss this in consultation.
Pricing
From 600 euros, on estimate given at the end of the consultation.
The SOFCPRE information sheet for your procedure is given to you during the consultation.