Inverted Nipple repair

Inverted nipple repair is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring nipple pertness for women with inverted nipples. The surgical procedure involves reshaping the nipple and areola which enhances the appearance of the breast while preserving nipple sensitivity, though this may be reduced after surgery.

When considering inverted nipple repair it is important to understand the procedure and the implications associated with this. Depending on the choice of procedure undertaken or any unforeseen circumstances, breast feeding may no longer possible for women who have undergone surgery. In most cases nipple sensitivity will not be impaired whilst scarring is unlikely to be intrusive.

There are two procedures available for this surgery and which option is best for you must be discussed with your consultant prior to surgery. The first procedure is inverted nipple repair which maintains partial preservation of the milk ducts. This involves repositioning the nipple and areola from the breast and stitching into the desired shape and contours. The second procedure is more common in the UK and may be the only choice in certain cases. Firstly an incision is made at the middle of the nipple after which the milk ducts are detached, this causes the nipples to project before the incision is sutured.

Preparation

Before undergoing inverted nipple repair consideration and preparation are vital. Those who are considering the procedure should clearly outline their target and openly discuss this with their consultant.

Those who are considering the procedure should be aware of the risks and complications that can arise as well as the practical changes that are needed prior to surgery. Those who are considering undergoing either procedure should be aware that they may be unable to breast feed and may also lose nipple sensitivity. In preparation for surgery itself patients should not smoke or be exposed to passive smoking for a period of two weeks. Prior to surgery patients are also required to stop taking medication which alters blood viscosity including aspirin, birth control and hormone correction.

After the operation

Following surgery medicated gauze, and protective foam is applied. It can be expected that a patients nipples will be sore for a period of five days after which any bruising and swelling should subside and the sutures will be removed. It is generally OK for patients to return to work after a period of one to two days however strenuous activity should be avoided. Any discomfort can be relieved through oral pain medication however patients should still expect to feel groggy and tired.

Those undergoing inverted nipple repair surgery should also arrange a family member or friend to drive them home after surgery and refrain from showering until the day after operation.

Recovering from inverted nipple repair

• Patients should avoid smoking as well as any exposure to passive smoking prior to and after the procedure.
• Showering should be avoided for a period of 24 hours after surgery.
• All strenuous labour should be avoided following surgery

Risks and complications

For the large majority of women who undergo inverted nipple repair the results will be a success with no unforeseen consequences. Despite this the capacity for risks and complications remain as is the case for almost all surgical procedures.

• There may be some loss of nipple tissue
• Inverted nipple repair may result in a loss of sensitivity in the nipple.
• The surgical procedure could result in a women being unable to breast feed.
• Patients who under go inverted nipple repair may be under risk of intrusive scaring.
• Recurrence can occur

By nature all medical procedures carry an element of risk. While the majority of patients do not experience any complication during our inverted nipple repair procedures, before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the McLean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose.