Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery/Inverted Nipple Correction

Procedure to reposition the nipple, returning them to their natural position

Inverted nipples can lead to a variety of functional and aesthetic concerns. Instead of pointing outwards, those with inverted nipples have inward-facing nipples. The condition affects a significant proportion of men and women, and in addition to being aesthetically undesirable, inverted nipples can also lead to discomfort. Therefore, inverted nipple correction works to alter the position of the nipple and return it to the natural position.

Inverted nipples can occur on both nipples or just affect one, leading some patients to opt for corrective surgery to achieve chest symmetry. Additionally, for some women, inverted nipples restrict their ability to breastfeed.

Why do inverted nipples occur?

There are several reasons why inverted nipples occur: as we begin to age, the changes within the body can lead to changes in the breasts. With age, the milk ducts in the body shorten, which can cause the nipple position to move, leading to inversion.

It is also important to remember that as women age, the chances of breast cancer increase. Breast cancer can also impact the size and shape of the breast and the nipple position. If a change like this is noted, it is important to contact a doctor to ensure this movement is not dangerous.

Some people are born with inverted nipples as a result of underdeveloped milk ducts or a small nipple base at birth, both causing the nipples to be pulled inwards.

Inverted nipples can also result from breastfeeding due to the intensive use of milk ducts.

Shot of a young woman having a therapeutic session with a psychologist

Inverted nipple correction surgery is a very effective procedure to fix and reposition the nipples. Inverted nipples can lead to a variety of issues, such as problems with self-confidence and psychological health and also functional issues, such as breastfeeding and discomfort. Therefore, inverted nipple correction is advised for anyone experiencing aesthetic concern or discomfort as a result.

Procedure Overview

  • Cosmetic and functional procedure to correct the position of inverted nipples
  • Multiple different reasons lead to the inversion of the nipples, which can cause aesthetic and functional concerns
  • Incisions are made under the nipple to access tight fibres and pull the nipple into the protruding position
  • Some pain and discomfort may be experienced as the area begins to heal during the first two weeks post-surgery
  • Typical procedure takes 1 hour to complete
  • Results from inverted nipple correction procedure are permanent
  • Typical procedure costs £2,150
  • You will have an initial consultation with an expert specialist in this area
Woman examining her breast on white background.

During the inverted nipple correction procedure, a small incision is made below the nipple. Through this, your surgeon will release the tight fibres which are responsible for pulling the nipple in. By doing so, the nipple should return to the usual protruded position. Stitches are then used to hold the nipple into the new protruding position while the scar tissue continues to grow and hold the new position. The incisions are then closed using dissolvable sutures.

For around two weeks following surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort in the area. During this time, it will be important to keep activity light in order to allow the area to heal properly and ensure the nipples take the correct position. Intense physical activity and sports should be avoided for six weeks post-surgery to allow the area to heal completely. Wearing a protective dressing over the area during the first two weeks will also be important.

During inverted nipple correction, you will receive a local anaesthetic so no pain or discomfort will be felt during the procedure. Following the surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort around the area, but it should last only two weeks approximately.

A typical inverted nipple correction procedure takes around an hour to complete.

Usually, the results from inverted nipple correction are permanent.

The price for an inverted nipple correction starts from approximately £2,150 which includes both consultant and facility fees. The total cost will be confirmed following the initial consultation.

"Mr Young has provided an excellent all-through service. From confirmatory diagnosis, through arranging hasty intervention and excellent after care, his care for my welfare and attention to detail has been exemplary. He has provided clear information and advice, at an appropriate level of detail, answering my questions attentively. He coached me to self-care for the later stages of my healing process. My experience has also benefited from an excellent support (both administrative and nursing) team at 152 Harley Street."

Accreditations

EAFPS - The European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
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