INTRODUCTION TO INVERTED NIPPLE REPAIR AND NIPPLE CORRECTION PROCEDURES
Inverted nipples are those that collapse inward instead of projecting outward away from the areolas. Inverted nipples can occur in just one or both breasts. Since a woman’s nipples are an important aspect of her appearance, as they are the most prominent attribute of her breasts, nipples that are inverted, protruding or puffy can cause a woman to feel self-conscious and sexually embarrassed. Inverted nipples can also contribute to problems breastfeeding and they can be caused by breastfeeding due to scarring around the milk ducts, which pulls the nipple(s) back into an inverted position.

Conversely, large, protruding nipples can also be an embarrassment, as they are easily visible through clothing.

For women with areolas that are overly large, asymmetrical or puffy, a reduction in the size of the areola can be performed to eliminate this concern.

APPROPRIATE CANDIDATES FOR NIPPLE SURGERY
Adult women who are otherwise healthy and have reasonable expectations are likely to be good candidates for nipple and/or areolar surgery. Occasionally, the procedure is performed on teenaged girls if they are distressed about the appearance of overly large nipples or inverted nipples. Generally, however, these procedures are performed on adult women whose breasts, areolas and nipples have reached their maximum adult size prior to the procedure.

Traverse City board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. F. Matthew Smith routinely performs nipple surgery both for inverted nipples, nipples that are overly large and/or areolas that are too large for the patient’s comfort. He has an excellent reputation in treating this problem.

As with all cosmetic procedures, it is important that Dr. Smith carefully evaluate your breasts, body frame and the general condition of your skin and muscle tone and to understand your goals and concerns before scheduling your breast revision procedure. This is accomplished during your private consultation at Dr. Smith’s Traverse City plastic surgery office.

HOW NIPPLE SURGERY IS PERFORMED
Dr. Smith performs most of his cosmetic surgery, including nipple procedures, in an accredited surgery suite at the Munson Medical Center. With the latest, cutting-edge equipment and a fully trained staff, the Munson Medical Center is an ideal place for his patients. Depending on the repair needed, a nipple procedure is typically scheduled for 60-90 minutes, possibly longer if extensive removal of areolar tissue is necessary to obtain the desired results. General anesthesia is used because Dr. Smith wants to ensure a well-controlled and safe surgical experience that is comfortable for his patient, although occasionally a minor nipple repair can be performed in the office under local anesthesia with or without sedation.

Once general anesthesia has been induced, Dr. Smith will proceed with the procedure, using tiny sutures to ensure the best possible result.

RECOVERY FROM NIPPLE SURGERY
Patients undergoing nipple surgery are placed in a dressing after the procedure to assist in keeping the area stable and to reduce swelling. Most women experience very little discomfort so long as the nipples are not exposed to rough fabric such as clothing, bras, washcloths and the like before healing has taken place.

It’s wise to listen to your body and respect the fact that you are healing, as everyone heals at a different rate. Within the first week you can expect that your recovery will follow this general progression: you will be permitted to shower within 48 hours, you will have a follow-up visit, you may return to non-strenuous work and sexual relations may be resumed.

Dr. Matthew Smith’s patients are quite satisfied following the healing process when they are able to see the results of their nipple and/or areola surgery. Please call us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns with Dr. F. Matthew Smith at his Traverse City plastic surgery office.