What is inverted nipple surgery?
An inverted nipple retracts into the breast instead of pointing outwards, away from the breast. Inverted nipple surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to correct the projection and to improve the overall appearance of the nipples.
There are various factors that may be responsible for inverted nipples, with the most common causes being:
- Congenital (genetics)
- Scars around the nipples from trauma or previous surgery
- Breast hypertrophy (large breasts)
- Recurrent breast infections (mastitis)
- Other diseases/conditions of the breast may also lead to inverted nipples
There are varying degrees of severity of inverted nipples:
- Mild (grade 1): The nipple can be easily pulled out and tends to maintain projection.
- Moderate (grade 2): The nipple can be pulled out but retracts immediately after letting go. Projection is not maintained easily.
- Severe (grade 3): The nipple is severely retracted (inverted) and can’t be pulled out.
The surgery is generally a minor procedure that lasts under an hour and is completed under local anesthesia.
Who is the ideal candidate for inverted nipple surgery?
All women with inverted nipples can consider inverted nipple surgery.
Patients often seek correction if they are self-conscious about their inverted nipples, or if it has affected the erogenous sensation of their nipples.
Breastfeeding may also be challenging with inverted nipples. Improvement may occur after inverted nipple surgery, however, in severe cases (grade 3), cutting the milk ducts may be necessary to protect the nipple. Breastfeeding will not be possible in such cases.
What does the procedure consist of?
Inverted nipple surgery in Montreal, can last as little as half an hour, and the specific technique used depends on the patient, the severity and the surgeon’s preference.
In most cases, small incisions are made at the junction of the areola and the inverted nipple. Through these incisions, Dr. Azzi will places sutures to reshape the nipple and pull it out. A nipple piercing is sometimes required to maintain projection after surgery (temporary).
It is worth noting that this procedure can be combined with certain breast-related procedures, such as a breast augmentation.
How much does the procedure cost?
The cost of an inverted nipple surgery generally depends on the treatment plan that is developed for you. Dr. Alain Azzi will be able to provide a personalized and accurate cost estimate after consultation where your unique needs and concerns will be evaluated.
During the consultation, Dr. Alain Azzi will perform a physical exam and will discuss your specific needs. A member from our patient care coordination department will subsequently provide you with the details regarding the cost of an inverted nipple surgery in Montreal
We offer both in-person and virtual plastic surgery consultations.