Surgery for inverted nipples – correction of shape and function

Surgery to correct inverted nipples helps restore their natural shape, symmetry, and function. The procedure improves the appearance of the breasts and enhances the patient’s psychological well-being, and in some cases also restores the ability to breastfeed.

What does the procedure for correcting inverted nipples involve?

Nipple reconstruction is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia; in some cases, when performed in conjunction with other breast surgeries, general anesthesia is used. The goal of the procedure is to release fibrous adhesions and shortened ducts that cause the nipples to be pulled inward toward the breast.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes precise, small incisions at the base of the nipple, then gently elevates it and stabilizes it in the correct position. Depending on the degree of deformity, the doctor may use sutures to support the nipple or employ special microsurgical techniques to prevent it from retracting again. Sometimes a minor correction of the areola is also necessary to achieve an aesthetic, symmetrical result.

The procedure usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, is minimally invasive, and does not require a long stay at the clinic. After the procedure, a sterile dressing is applied, and the patient can go home the same day.

Preparation for the procedure

Before proceeding with the surgery, it is essential to consult with a surgeon, who will thoroughly assess the patient’s health, the degree of nipple deformity, and the expected outcome. Standard preoperative tests must be performed, such as:

• complete blood count,
• coagulation parameters (APTT, INR),
• ECG,
• Chest X-ray,
• blood type determination.

About a week before the procedure, you should stop taking any medications that affect blood clotting (such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and avoid alcohol. On the day of the procedure, you should fast and avoid applying cosmetics to your chest area.

Recovery after nipple reconstruction

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience mild pain, swelling, or bruising in the breast area—these are typical symptoms that subside within a few days. If necessary, your doctor may recommend oral pain relievers. For the first two weeks after surgery, you should avoid physical exertion, bending over, and raising your arms above chest level.

During the initial recovery period, it is essential to wear a specialized post-surgical bra, which keeps the breasts in a stable position and supports the healing process. The stitches are usually removed after 7–10 days, while full healing and the final results become apparent within 3–6 months.

During this time, you should protect the treated areas from injury and avoid saunas, tanning beds, and sun exposure. After a few weeks, you can gradually resume light physical activity.

Effects of the treatment

The result of inverted nipple correction surgery is a natural, symmetrical appearance of the nipples, which are restored to their proper position. In addition to improving the aesthetic appearance of the breasts, the procedure often provides functional benefits as well, particularly in terms of breastfeeding.

The results are long-lasting, but require adherence to postoperative instructions and regular follow-up visits. In most cases, scarring is minimal and virtually invisible.

Contraindications

The treatment is not recommended for:

• pregnancy and breastfeeding,
• active skin infections in the breast area,
• uncontrolled diabetes,
• blood clotting disorders,
• autoimmune diseases,
• breast cancer or other types of cancer,
• uncontrolled hypertension.
  
  

The decision regarding eligibility for the procedure is always made by the surgeon based on a detailed consultation and laboratory test results.