| INC | Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Inverted nipples can cause aesthetic concerns and discomfort. Breast feeding or devices such as the Niplette can sometimes be successful. Surgical correction involves a small cut below the nipple through which the tight fibres are released which pull the nipple in. Stitches are used to keep the nipple protruded until the scar tissue takes over. The wounds are repaired with sutures which dissolve within four months. A protective dressing is recommended for 1-2 weeks afterwards. |
| Scars | 3mm |
| Operation time | 1 hour |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological, Functional, Symptomatic |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Wound separation, Slough, Nipple necrosis, Pain, Numbness, Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Recurrent retraction, Inability to breastfeed, Aesthetic imperfections, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction. N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Breastfeeding over last 6 months, Asymmetry cannot be entirely corrected, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, scar massage, sun protection, silicone sheets / gel, protective dressings |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities 2 weeks, Physical work & sports & sex 6 weeks |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 - 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Nipple forming devices, Breast feeding, Piercing |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
