Surgical correction of inverted nipples, usually under local anaesthetic.
About the procedure
What this procedure involves
Inverted nipple correction is a procedure that releases the tissue drawing a nipple inward so that it can sit outward. Nipple inversion is commonly graded from one to three depending on how readily the nipple can be drawn out and stays out, and the grade influences the approach, which may involve dividing the tight bands or ducts beneath the nipple. Dr Jassim Daood performs inverted nipple correction at the Bankstown clinic, usually as a day procedure under local anaesthetic. Whether it is appropriate, and whether milk ducts may be affected, is discussed at a consultation.
Recovery
Recovery varies between patients. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, with mild discomfort managed by simple pain relief. Dressings are worn for a short period, most people return to everyday activities quickly, and the final result settles over the following weeks.
In depth
More about this procedure
Detailed information about this procedure. Select a section to read more.
Correction may be considered for one or both nipples that turn inward, whether long-standing or affecting confidence, comfort or breast-feeding. Because a change in the nipple can occasionally have an underlying cause, any new or recent inversion should be assessed by a doctor first.
Suitability, and the degree of correction likely to be achievable, is assessed individually at your consultation.
The procedure releases the tight bands of tissue behind the nipple that pull it inward, and reshapes the nipple to sit outward. It is generally carried out through a small incision at the base of the nipple and is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day procedure.
The approach depends on the degree of inversion and whether preserving the milk ducts is a priority, which is discussed at your consultation.
The area is usually tender for a short period, and a light dressing may be worn. Specific aftercare instructions are provided to protect the nipple as it heals.
Many people return to everyday activities within a few days, though this depends on the individual.
Correction can produce a nipple that sits outward rather than turning in, which many people find improves comfort and confidence.
The result settles over the following weeks, and outcomes vary between individuals. Realistic expectations are discussed at your consultation.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Nipples can be drawn inward by tight bands of tissue or shortened ducts beneath the nipple. This can be present from development or follow changes over time. The cause and grade are assessed at your consultation.
Inversion is commonly described as grade one to three, based on how easily the nipple can be drawn out and whether it stays out. The grade helps guide the approach and is determined during your assessment.
Through a small incision at the base of the nipple, the tight tissue holding it inward is released, and in some cases the ducts are divided. The specific technique is planned around your circumstances and explained at your consultation.
Where the milk ducts are divided as part of the correction, breastfeeding may be affected. This possibility is discussed in detail before any decision, particularly if you may wish to breastfeed in future.
Recurrence of inversion is possible after surgery. How likely this is depends on the grade and technique, and it is discussed as part of the risks at your consultation.
The procedure is usually a day case under local anaesthetic. Mild discomfort is managed with simple pain relief, dressings are worn for a short period, and most people return to everyday activities quickly.
Cost depends on your individual procedure and is provided in writing after your consultation. Any quote reflects the total cost, covering the surgeon, anaesthesia, facility fees, aftercare and any garments required.
Yes. Under Australian regulations a GP referral is required before a cosmetic surgery consultation, and the referring practitioner must not perform cosmetic procedures themselves.
