It is a fact that on average 2% of the female population has at least one inverted nipple. Very often it’s congenital. This can easily be mended with a nipple correction under local anaesthetic.
The surgery
Inverted nipples have different forms.
The first type of inverted nipple is the “normal shaped” nipple that occasionally retracts. In this case it takes a simple procedure to correct the inversion. A small ring is placed around the nipple to prevent it from turning inwards. The procedure leaves no scars. Neither will breastfeeding pose any problems: the milk ducks remain intact.
The second one is a more persistent form of inversion that occurs when the nipple ducts inside the breast are shorter than normal, causes a pulling inward of the nipple. Although this is a harmless medical condition that usually starts during puberty, it is more difficult to correct. A scar has to be formed through the nipple to loosen the milk ducks that cause the inversion of the nipple. Discharge may occur during the first few weeks that follow the surgery. After correcting this type of inverted nipple, breastfeeding may no longer be possible.
Both nipple corrections are done under local anaesthetic.
