Both men and women can be born with inverted nipples, but it is more prevalent in women. This malformation is usually caused by abnormal nipple structure, created by deformed underlying tissue or surrounding skin. The condition can also develop gradually over time. Sometimes milk ducts and other fibrous tissues in the nipple become inflamed and shorten in length.

Another issue that can occur is when scar tissue develops following a breast biopsy. This procedure involves the removal of cells near the nipple. If scar tissue forms after the tissue is extracted a permanent blockage can result.

Dr. Erik Miles is a highly trained expert in the most innovative and effective techniques used to perform breast reconstructive surgery in Charlotte. He is highly skilled in breast surgery procedures and will offer you the best solution to properly repair your inverted nipples.

Can inverted nipples indicate a serious medical condition?

Drastic changes in breast size, volume, and the amount of skin laxity may make nipples appear inverted. However, many women who have breastfed notice more pronounced nipples. On rare occasion, inverted nipples have indicated the presence of breast cancer. If you haven’t always had inverted nipples and the condition just appeared for no explainable reason, contact the office of Dr. Erik Miles at North Charlotte Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, to schedule an examination.

Is Inverted nipple correction in Charlotte a difficult procedure?

Inverted nipple correction in Charlotte is a minor surgical procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia with a relatively short recovery period. Nipple correction can be combined with other breast procedures such as breast augmentation, lift, or reduction. This simple cosmetic procedure can repair the inverted nipple, create symmetry and provide a more aesthetically appealing look.

What are the benefits of inverted nipple repair in Charlotte?

There are essentially two types of inverted nipple repair, some methods will involve severing the milk ducts, others will leave them intact for women planning to breastfeed in the future. Both types have the objective to correct and reshape the nipple and surrounding areola, creating a nipple that projects outward, while preserving sensitivity.

How can inverted nipples be repaired without damaging milk ducts?

Dr. Miles will first administer a local anesthetic and a sedative to make you feel comfortable. An incision is then made on the areola around the base of the nipple. While still connected to the breast, the nipple and areola are lifted and stitched into a projecting shape with a purse-string-style of suturing. The circular scar surrounding the nipple will enhance nipple projection through the process of scar contracture. Therapeutic gauze will be applied to the incision site.

What should I expect during inverted nipple correction surgery with detached ducts?

This procedure is performed most frequently and is often necessary in difficult cases. Dr. Miles will also use both a local anesthetic and a mild sedative. Below the base of the nipple, an incision is made to access the ducts. The shortened milk ducts are surgically detached to allow the nipple to project outward. Lastly, the incision is sutured and medicated gauze is placed on the site.

Inverted nipple correction typically takes about one to two hours, depending on the surgery technique used and the patient’s anatomy. Most all surgeries can be performed as outpatient procedures. Patients are able to return home within a few hours after surgery, and can resume reasonable physical activity within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are interested in learning more about the types of inverted nipple correction procedures that are available, please contact Dr. Erik Miles at North Charlotte Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery today online or at (704) 896-5556.