INVERTED NIPPLES

WHAT IS AN INVERTED NIPPLE?

A nipple is referred to as inverted if it is retracted into the areola of the breast. It looks as though it is inverted. The inverted appearance can be permanent or temporary. In temporary forms, the nipples protract (pop out) upon stimulus, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF INVERTED NIPPLES?

Inverted nipples are due to short or retracted milk ducts:

• usually, no cause is identified: inverted nipples from birth
• sometimes a cause can be identified: mammary ptosis, trauma, breastfeeding, breast infection, breast cancer

INVERTED NIPPLES AND BREASTFEEDING

INVERTED NIPPLES WITHOUT SURGERY

Sometime, with an increase in breast volume during pregnancy and breastfeeding, nipples may pop out temporarily and intermittently, under the mechanical pressure of the increased breast volume.

However, inverted nipples can make breastfeeding difficult. It is sometimes possible if the baby sucks directly on the areola.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO BREASTFEED AFTER SURGERY FOR INVERTED NIPPLES?

Depending on how far the milk ducts are retracted, they may be released to a greater or lesser extent. If they are totally released, breastfeeding is no longer possible.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

The treatment of inverted nipples involves surgery and consists of the partial or total release of the milk ducts in order to protract the nipples, using a small 1 cm incision under the nipple.

POST-OPERATIVE EFFECTS

No stitches to remove
Niplettes to be worn for 15 days
Scar usually invisible
No time away from social activities

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