NIPPLE INVERSION

Normally the nipple on a breast is protuberant. The size varies between individuals. Abnormally, the nipple can be retracted into the areola giving the appearance of a flat nipple. This may be as a result of development, trauma, breast feeding or disease and is known as nipple inversion.

The correction may be performed surgically under local or general anaesthesia.

The shortened bands that tether the inverted nipples are gently released to allow the nipple to evert. Care is taken not to damage the milk ducts. Recurrence is a possibility in a small percentage of patients.