Inverted nipples - a problem or not? Review of methods of treatment. Breast with inverted nipples - a problem or not? Retraction of the nipples

The female body is very susceptible to any changes that occur in the body, and the breast is the most sensitive part. Any woman will notice when her breasts change shape, become different from what they used to be, especially the moment of sunken nipples should not be missed.

The deviation in the structure causes a lot of complexes in a woman. She becomes withdrawn, tends to hide her breasts. Of course, this condition negatively affects intimate life. Fallen has not only aesthetic dislike, this condition brings a lot of discomfort and can cause serious pathologies. The pain may go away on its own for a while, but sometimes it is so strong and unbearable that you have to call an ambulance.

What causes pain

Unfortunately, today one in three women seek help from a breast health specialist. The disease of the mammary glands has become very common, and this is primarily due to hormonal disruptions, an unhealthy lifestyle. Because the chest reacts to any most insignificant changes in the body.

As a rule, it is accompanied by general malaise and discomfort in the entire chest. The first thing a woman of reproductive age might think about is approaching her period (very rarely). Therefore, it is very important to monitor your cycle in order to exclude a symptom tied specifically to this condition.

Why do sunken nipples need an urgent mammological examination, because such a phenomenon occurs from the usual use of hormonal drugs, antidepressants, antibiotics, and also during pregnancy? Unfortunately, sometimes the clinical picture can be more dangerous, and such changes in the chest are a sign of:

  • mastopathy;
  • breast cysts;
  • oncology.

Reasons for the development of pathology

Deformation of the juice is a feature of the structure of the mammary gland. The reason for the deviation may be:

  • heredity;
  • underdevelopment of the genital organs and hypofunction;
  • insufficient development of the milk ducts;
  • breast diseases;
  • wrong underwear.

Typically, changes occur on both sides at the same time. If the nipple on one breast has fallen, you need to urgently go to a mammologist - this is one of the first signs. It is important to understand that such negative factors as alcohol consumption, smoking, drugs, poor environmental conditions, greatly affect health and can affect the condition of the breast.

The female nipple has a rather complex structure. On its surface there are up to 25 milk ducts that go to the mammary gland. Connective tissue strands located between the small lactiferous ducts pass into the deeper layers. Insufficiently long threads of these launches draw the nipple inward. In some cases, breastfeeding contributes to the return of the normal shape due to stretching of the bundles.

Symptoms

Inverted nipples do not rise above the areola, they become flat, as if pressed into the chest. The woman herself may not notice such a flaw until she becomes pregnant, or the moment of breastfeeding comes. During this period, the deformation of the nipple is very noticeable. It may look like this:

  • average retraction;
  • short and flat;
  • long and strong retraction.

Outwardly, sunken nipples look different. The photo may not show serious differences, only the doctor will notice this when examining the patient.

Plastic surgeons distinguish 2 types of sunken nipples:

  • hiding;
  • inverted.

The former return to the desired position during breastfeeding or sexual arousal. The latter do not protrude beyond the halo during any manipulations. Often this condition is accompanied by pain in the entire chest.

If you fell down, they cause a lot of problems when feeding a baby. It is inconvenient for him to grab the breast, which is why the child cannot eat normally. Numerous attempts to cope with this process lead to the fact that the areola is injured, painful cracks and abrasions appear, into which the infection can penetrate, which will lead to the development of mastitis. When feeding stops abruptly, and the mother undergoes an operation.

Such a defect can cause the following complications:

  • accumulation of foreign particles or fat in the cavity;
  • maceration of the halo;
  • milk leaks from the breast during pregnancy.

How to deal with pathology?

Many women, noticing such a pathology in themselves and not realizing the seriousness of the problem, try to “solve the problem” themselves: they pull out the nipples with their hands, various objects, rub them, massage them. When a sunken nipple is diagnosed, it is absolutely impossible to do this. Firstly, the effect will not be exact, and secondly, the nipples have a close connection with the entire neuroendocrine system, which provides support for the body during pregnancy. And such irritation stimulates the production of hormones that tone the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage.

It doesn’t matter at what period of her life (during pregnancy or just in the process of preparing for it, while feeding), a woman noticed that her nipple had fallen. Be sure to visit a mammologist at the first symptoms. After the examination, the doctor will advise how to restore the previous appearance of the breast.

Special overlays are produced for stretching connective tissue bridges. The device for sunken nipples Brava has proven itself well. However, conservative treatment does not always help, in some cases surgery is required.

Surgical correction

Nipple correction is performed with a minor surgical intervention under local anesthesia. Such procedures may be contraindicated if a woman plans to give birth and breastfeed a child in the future. An accurate diagnosis is made after the examination. Such an anomaly is a purely individual problem.

Any intervention in the body has certain consequences, complications and discomfort. But in some cases, this procedure saves a person's life, normalizes his psychological state and returns him to his former existence. During the operation, all attention is paid to maintaining the integrity of the milk ducts. A small incision is made under the microscope at the base of the halo, and the cords are dissected, drawing the nipple inward, after which it is pulled forward.

Rehabilitation after surgery

During this period, hematomas, swelling and pain in the chest area will be observed. The full rehabilitation period is 6 weeks. At this time, you need to give up heavy physical exertion, avoid stressful situations, spend more time outdoors and wear comfortable underwear.

After this time, you need to continue to adhere to all recommendations and accept them as a way of life. By the woman will gradually return to become elongated.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is carried out by a highly qualified mammologist or gynecologist, who prescribes an examination to understand why the nipple has fallen. To do this, you must submit:

  • general analysis of urine, feces and blood;
  • bacterial culture from the nipples;
  • scraping;
  • an ultrasound or mammogram is ordered.

Preventive actions

Every woman should monitor her health and pay attention to any changes in the body. It is necessary to periodically examine the mammary glands. It is worth alerting and taking urgent measures if the nipple fell on one breast. And even in the absence of soreness and other unpleasant symptoms, an urgent need to visit a specialist's office.

This pathology occurs in every tenth woman. And, as a rule, a flat or inverted nipple worries women most, either as an element of aesthetic imperfection, or when lactation begins after childbirth and the young mother is faced with the problem of how to feed the newborn. In this case, mammologists distinguish between two types of this anatomical deviation: when the inverted nipple hardens and becomes convex after manual stimulation, and the inverted variant is a truly retracted state. This article, for the most part, aims to highlight the more severe second case of pathology.

ICD-10 code

O92.0 Inverted nipple

Causes of an inverted nipple

Many women, faced with this problem, acquire an inferiority complex, asking the question, why did this happen? The reasons for such a clinical picture may be different.

  • Heredity.
  • Wrong choice of bra. This is especially true if a woman wants to visually reduce her breasts, using a deliberately smaller size than necessary. Or the wrong selection of the size and model of the bra.
  • Diseases affecting the breast tissue.
  • Congenital pathology of the development of connective fibers that hold the milk ducts.
  • Violation of the period of sexual development of a girl - insufficient formation of the milk ducts and mammary glands.
  • Tumor formations (both benign and malignant).

These causes cause the nipple to retract inside the areola. This situation not only causes aesthetic discomfort to a woman, but is also dangerous. It can become a risk factor for the development of an inflammatory process in the breast - mastitis.

Symptoms of an inverted nipple

To more confidently talk about the type of nipple, you should conduct a simple test. Its essence is as follows: take the nipple at its base with your thumb and forefinger and gently squeeze. If but moved out even more - the natural state of the norm, and if it went inside - drawn in.

The main symptoms of an inverted nipple are quite visual - the nipple is constantly either on the same level with the areola, or completely “drowned” inside.

Such an anatomical picture refers to anomalies and requires specialist advice. In this case, it will be a mammologist.

To date, doctors divide this pathology into two types:

  • Lurking. When the nipple swells freely enough with manual stimulation and does not cause much inconvenience when feeding the baby.
  • Inverted. The situation when the nipple is always located inside the areola. This situation does not change with manual stimulation. It is this pathology that gives the woman the greatest trouble and problems, both aesthetic and functional.

Women who have an anomaly in the structure of the breast, namely the variant of the inverted nipple, quite often complain of pain in this area of ​​the body. Basically, such symptoms accompany them during the period of feeding the newborn with breast milk.

Due to its irregular structure, such a nipple does not allow the baby to capture it normally. The child, as he can, tries to do this, but at the same time, with his actions, he causes pain to the mother. Another reason for pain in this situation is the incorrect use of the "nozzle" - an artificial nipple.

Therefore, if the nipple is pulled in and hurts, it is advisable to consult a specialist. Perhaps the cause of discomfort is one of the above reasons, or perhaps the young mother simply chose the wrong position for feeding her baby.

Complications and consequences

An inverted nipple often creates aesthetic discomfort for a woman, developing an inferiority complex.

Over time, the consequences of this deviation from the norm lead to other problems. And the most significant of them a woman faces immediately after childbirth.

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Complications

This deviation refers to the pathology of a psychological, cosmetic, and, most importantly, physiological nature. If we talk about the consequences for the health of the patient, then any pathological changes do not threaten her.

But there are clinical situations when a woman is offered the correction of a pathological defect through surgical intervention. Going to the operation, the patient should be prepared for the fact that complications are possible in the postoperative period, which will have to be stopped.

These consequences include:

  • Swelling around surgical tissues.
  • Sore at rest or when touched.
  • Irritation of the skin.
  • Allergic reaction to a drug or material.
  • Infection with subsequent suppuration of the wound.
  • development of a hematoma.
  • Scar formation.

If the operation is carried out correctly, then these symptoms will pass quickly enough.

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Diagnosis of an inverted nipple

The inverted nipple is perfectly visualized. And this is the first thing that catches your eye when examining the mammary glands. The subsequent diagnosis of this problem may consist in the fact that the doctor prescribes additional laboratory tests and instrumental diagnostics.

  • A blood and urine test is required.
  • Visual examination of the mammary glands and areas of localization of nearby lymph nodes. In this case, it is the axillary area.
  • Cytology of material taken from the surface of the nipple.
  • Radiography.
  • Ultrasound examination of the area of ​​interest.
  • If necessary, X-ray diagnostics of the soft tissues of the axillary zone.

Instrumental diagnostics

  • Ultrasound examination of the mammary glands (ultrasound).
  • Color Doppler mapping (CDC).

If necessary, an additional examination may be prescribed. It could be:

  • Laser mammography.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging.
  • When planning surgical treatment, a woman is offered to go (if possible) to a panoramic sonography.
  • Multislice computed tomography of the mammary glands with intravenous contrast enhancement.
  • Aspiration biopsy carried out with monitoring carried out by means of X-ray and ultrasound techniques.
  • Three-dimensional ultrasonography - an ultrasound examination in 3D format.
  • Radionuclide diagnostics - analysis of the parameters obtained after the introduction of special biochemical or chemical compounds into the patient's body.
  • Examination of tumor markers (in case of suspected breast cancer).
  • Sternal phlebography, with suspicion of damage to the axillary lymph nodes.

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Inverted nipple treatment

There are two main treatments for an inverted nipple: surgical and non-surgical. Depending on the nature of the pathology, the normalization of the shape of the nipples can take place through a radical intervention in the structure of the nipple and, through plastic surgery, giving it new forms.

Non-surgical therapy includes a number of techniques. It can be:

  • Treatment by performing a specific set of exercises.
  • Correction of an inverted nipple defect with a cup-shaped vacuum nozzle.
  • Use of nipple pads.

The choice of option largely depends on the woman herself. Before she decides to have an operation, she must answer this question for herself: is she planning to become pregnant and breastfeed her newborn? If so, then surgery makes sense. The desire to correct a defect for the sake of aesthetic correction can lead a woman to the same result.

What to do with an inverted nipple?

As statistics show, approximately ten percent of women are faced with the problem we are considering in this article. Therefore, the question of what to do with an inverted nipple is quite relevant for them and requires a quick explanation.

As mentioned above, before trying to solve the problem on your own, it would not be superfluous to seek the advice of a specialist (mammologist). He, after conducting appropriate surveys, differentiates the problem and suggests ways to solve it.

If there are indications, a woman is planning a pregnancy and wants to breastfeed her baby on her own, while her health allows it, you can use surgical nipple plastic surgery. This radical method will solve the existing problem once and for all.

Also, the specialist can offer the patient the most suitable method for non-surgical solution of the pathological deviation for her case. She will be offered a set of special exercises or the use of overlays specially designed for such a pathology when feeding.

The complex of exercises is mainly reduced to manual stimulation of the nipple with the phalanges of the hands. These actions are aimed at forming an adequate reaction of the nipple to irritation. This technique is most effective for false bulges, where stimulation causes the nipple to swell and take up space above the areola ring.

The essence of the exercise is rhythmic compression with two fingers (forefinger and thumb) of the base of the nipple, first inward, and then making rhythmic movements, as if stretching the nipple. This procedure should be performed for several minutes two to three times a day for two to three months.

It should be warned that this stimulation is strictly unacceptable during the period when a woman is pregnant and is in the first or second trimester. Since the stimulation of the nipple also contributes to an increase in the tone of the uterus, which can cause premature birth, and as a result, the loss of the child and the termination of pregnancy.

Surgical treatment

One of the methods that help resolve the existing anatomical deviation is surgical treatment, which the doctor can resort to either at the request of the patient or at the insistence of the doctor if this pathology becomes an obstacle for a woman in terms of breastfeeding her baby. In any case, there must be a voluntary consent of the patient and the absence of contraindications to surgical intervention.

This technique makes it possible to radically and fairly quickly solve this issue. To date, there are several methods of surgical intervention. The choice largely depends on the answer to the question of whether the woman plans to continue to give birth and feed the newborn with breast milk.

To understand the essence of surgical treatment, it will not be superfluous to recall the structure of the area of ​​interest to us. Approximately 25 lactiferous ducts have their outlet on the nipple surface. At the same time, they are supported and connected to each other by cords of connective fibers, the other end of which is fixed in the deep layers of the mammary gland. If these connecting fibers are smaller than necessary, and the picture considered in this article is obtained.

The simplest option is the intersection of the milk ducts, which, having a length less than expected or suffering from a loss of elasticity, are in tension and do not allow the nipple to rise above the areola.

The duct-sparing surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia. In this case, organ-preserving surgical intervention can also be carried out in two ways:

  • When corrections are made only directly to the nipple and areola.
  • In parallel with the manipulations of the first point, a mammoplasty is also performed by a mammoplasty surgeon. That is, a breast lift, increase or decrease in breast size is performed.

At the same time, a small incision (up to 1 cm in size) is made at the base of the areola, through which, under the control of a microscope, a specialist performs the necessary manipulations. This procedure usually takes about an hour.

The consequences of the operation in the postoperative period may be:

  • The appearance of a hematoma.
  • Swelling of the operated area.
  • Decreased nipple sensitivity.

But usually during the first week after the operation, the swelling and bluing disappear, and the sensitivity is restored.

Over the next month, a woman who has undergone surgery needs to take care of herself:

  • Heavy lifting and high physical exertion should be avoided.
  • Do not wear tight underwear.
  • Prefer natural materials in clothes and bedding.
  • Exclude visits to swimming pools, solariums, open water, sunbathing in nature.

The consequences of such a surgical intervention remain almost imperceptible.

Inverted nipple correction

Modern medicine is ready to offer women with an anatomical breast defect in the form of an inverted nipple a non-surgical solution to the problem. In this vein, doctors can offer a number of devices, thanks to which the inverted nipples are corrected. Such methods include stimulating the nipple with a vacuum, as well as the use of special corrective caps to make up for the missing volume of the nipple.

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Inverted nipple corrector

One of the devices that allows you to partially or completely solve the problem while feeding the baby is the inverted nipple corrector. This device is a modifier that repeats the shape of the areola and the nipple itself. This device is used during lactation.

Before feeding, a woman fixes a cap - a corrector on her chest. It prevents retraction of the nipple during the period when the newborn is feeding. In this case, the corrector cap plays the role of protection against the formation of cracks on the nipple and nearby tissues.

The essence of the method is forced stretching to the natural size of the ducts of the mammary gland. This allows you to remove the problem of feeding and makes it possible to easily establish lactation.

Vacuum tips for inverted nipples

This device was developed by the plastic surgeon, Englishman Douglas Mack George. Vacuum nozzles for inverted nipples are becoming more and more popular today among women who are faced with this problem.

Made from hypoallergenic silicone material, the vacuum nozzle is easy to use. But the effectiveness of its application varies from case to case. If the nipple sinks into the areola, while being stimulated takes a natural place, then this technique, with regular use, after three to four weeks, will solve the problem and return the nipple to its normal position.

If the nipple is pathologically retracted, then such a significant result cannot be expected, but its use will make it possible, in this case, to normalize feeding.

The mechanism of action of the corrector is simple and based on the phenomenon of vacuum. A specially made cap is put on the nipple. Using a check valve, a syringe is connected to it, with the help of which air is pumped out of the internal area, creating a vacuum in this area. After the syringe is disconnected, the vacuum is maintained by a check valve. Under the action of vacuum, the inverted nipple is pulled out, acquiring a natural shape.

If you wear this device daily for eight hours, then after three to four weeks, the nipple begins to keep its natural shape on its own. This result is achieved due to the soft and dosed stretching of the tissue structures of the milk ducts, which hold the nipple in a certain abnormal position. The use of this device does not cause, no matter how, a significant negative impact on the main functions of the breast.

But it is worth noting that this result is possible only in the case of false retraction of the nipple. If a woman is diagnosed with a truly inverted nipple, then this method will not lead to significant changes in the situation.

Vacuum nozzles for inverted nipples on the shelves of modern pharmacies today are represented by various modified series, allowing a woman to independently choose exactly the model that suits her most fully.

The nipple shaper is usually worn inside the bra cups for a minimum of eight hours (day and/or night).

Clinical trials have shown the high efficiency of this method of stopping the problem.

How to feed a baby with inverted nipples?

If a woman has an inverted nipple, it is advisable to correct it even before planning a pregnancy. If such a “treatment” was not carried out, then over time the question arises, how to feed a child with inverted nipples?

In such a situation, experts advise preparing nipples for lactation, starting from the 38th week of pregnancy. The preparation of inverted nipples for feeding a child consists of a whole range of measures that allow solving the problem that has arisen before the start of lactation.

These methods include massage, or as it is also called "special exercises to normalize the inverted nipple." The essence of the exercise is rhythmic compression with two fingers (forefinger and thumb) of the base of the nipple, first inward, and then making rhythmic movements, as if stretching the nipple. This procedure should be performed for several minutes (no more than ten) two to three times a day for two to three months. When carrying out this exercise, it is advisable to apply a thin layer of lanolin or massage oil to the areola. This will protect the sensitive skin of the chest from physical damage and allow you to perform the exercise correctly.

Feeding with inverted nipples

It is worth immediately preparing that the first attachment to the chest will be problematic.

A woman will have to be patient and work hard to establish lactation and feeding in such a situation.

He will try to figure out what needs to be done in this case in order to quickly solve the problem.

  • The first thing that can be advised to such women is the position when feeding. During the feeding period, the young mother should take the baby in her arms and slowly walk around the room. Such a move will help develop a sucking reflex in a newborn. After all, this situation is well known to him, he felt it for nine months, being in the womb.
  • It is necessary to choose the right position for feeding. This applies to both the child and the mother. The baby's head should be positioned so that his mouth is parallel to the nipple. To achieve this, the woman in labor must hold the baby on one hand, and the breast is supported by the other.
  • Before you start feeding, you need to get advice on how to properly hold the fingers of the hand located on the chest. The four knuckles should support the chest from below, and the knuckle of the thumb fixes the chest from above.
  • When feeding while standing, it is desirable to secure the baby. To do this, it should be swaddled or placed in a sling. In such a situation, the baby is deprived of the opportunity to actively move, which will somewhat facilitate the feeding procedure.
  • If the first time the baby did not succeed in taking the nipple in his mouth. You shouldn't force it in there. Such “violence” will only push the baby away, reinforcing the negative perception. It is worth trying to slightly tease the baby, leading the nipple along his lips. Reflexively, the child will join the game and try to grab the nipple.
  • In order for the baby to not be so difficult to grasp the inverted nipple with her lips at first, it is necessary to express a small amount of breast milk before the start of each feeding. This will relieve tension in the chest and make it softer and more supple. In this situation, it is necessary to present the nipple along with the areola.

To help feed with inverted nipples, a woman should consult with her doctor, who will help her choose a device that will make it easier to cope with the problem. Fortunately, the modern market is ready to offer a fairly good selection of models, both corrective caps (silicone pads) and special vacuum nozzles.

Inverted nipple piercing

Modern piercing has found a second wind. Where, and on what parts of the body, one does not have to see these “works of art”. But in the light of the pathology we are considering, we will try to illuminate it from this side.

In social networks, multiple respondents who had to deal with this problem are interested in whether it is possible to get pierced on inverted nipples? And whether this procedure can correct the situation by stretching the nipple and making it naturally normal.

As experience has shown, there is a rational grain in these assumptions. In some cases, the piercing placed in the nipple, to some extent, replaces the vacuum, "pulling" the nipple to its normal position. And it works.

But even without looking back, you should not rush to do this procedure for yourself in order to solve the problem, since this is still an injury to the nipple with an open wound. And if the puncture was not made by a professional and in unsanitary conditions, then such a “treatment” will not lead to anything good.

The procedure itself, as already mentioned, should be carried out under sterile conditions by a professional.

In some cases, it is simply not technically possible to make a piercing in the nipple, and precisely because the nipple is retracted. So it's not that simple.

Prevention

To date, there are no specific measures that can prevent the development of an inverted nipple. This prevention is reduced to the timely detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and pathological anatomical abnormalities that can lead a woman's breast to a pathology associated with a change in the position of the nipple.

An inverted nipple is one of the features of the mammary gland that worries many women on the planet. This problem delivers not only psychological and aesthetic discomfort, but also significantly complicates breastfeeding in case of pregnancy and childbirth. In the article, we will figure out how dangerous this feature is, whether it is possible to predict dangerous diseases from it, and whether there are any methods to combat such a pathology.

Inverted nipples - what is it?

So, as mentioned earlier, this is a feature of the development of the mammary gland. In this case, the nipples do not rise above the areola, but are compared at the same level with it or are completely drawn into the chest. Normally, the height of the nipple is from 0.5 to 1 cm.

Classification

There are 2 types of inverted nipples:

  • Tightly inverted - not protruding beyond the areola. In this case, additional problems may appear - inflammation and irritation.
  • Hiding - with sexual stimulation or during breastfeeding, such nipples are pulled out.

Causes of pathology

Inverted nipples can be either congenital or acquired. The most common causes of this disease are:

  • Hereditary factor - women, among whose close blood relatives this pathology was observed, should more closely monitor their health, since there is a high risk of retraction of the nipples in them.
  • Injuries - the shape of the nipples can be affected by the slightest bruises or blows, as well as an awkward fall on the chest. Every woman should protect the mammary glands from such influences, in order to prevent not only retraction, but also other, more serious, diseases.
  • Pathological changes during puberty - a delay in the development of the mammary gland often leads to an inferior formation of the nipple region.
  • Growth disorders of the milk ducts.
  • Prolonged wearing of tight, small or uncomfortable underwear leads to a violation of the shape of the breasts and nipples.
  • Breast diseases: oncology, mastitis, growth of papillomas in the mammary gland, eczema, contact dermatitis, inflammatory processes, growth of benign tumors.

Why does nipple retraction occur in various breast diseases?

The process of changing the female mammary gland in the presence of certain diseases is explained quite simply. All ducts are attached to the papillary region with the help of connective tissue. What is the picture in the development of pathology? As a rule, all diseases of the mammary gland proceed with the replacement of the connective tissue with fibrous or sclerotic tissue, as a result of which the tension increases and the nipple is drawn inward. That is why the first step after discovering a change in the shape of the nipple should be a trip to the doctor. Delaying the examination, a woman seriously risks her health, as many diseases, including cancer, develop rapidly.


Symptoms and Diagnosis

In addition to the visual, this pathology has no other manifestations. However, it is not uncommon for cases when, with improper breast care, serious symptoms (various inflammations, etc.) may also appear.

If this problem occurs, mammologists and gynecologists advise to start correcting an inverted nipple as soon as possible, especially if a woman plans to become a mother in the near future. Otherwise, you may encounter difficulties with lactation, namely, the inability to feed the baby or express breast milk, which will inevitably lead to the development of lactostasis.

When contacting a doctor, it is necessary to carry out a set of diagnostic measures:

  • Visual examination of the mammary glands and axillary areas.
  • Cytological examination of scrapings from the nipple.
  • X-ray of the breast.
  • Ultrasound of the soft tissues of the axillary zone.

Only with the results of the studies listed above in hand, a mammologist will be able to offer an adequate solution to the problem of inverted and flat nipples.


Non-surgical treatment

How to fix inverted nipples? One of the conservative methods related to the non-surgical solution of this problem is vacuum pulling. The essence of the procedure is the correction of an inverted nipple using a special device. The doctor puts special suction cups on the woman's chest, which are not removed for two weeks (with the exception of hygiene procedures). During treatment, careful monitoring by a specialist is necessary - only in this case, unpleasant consequences, such as cracking or drying of the skin around the nipple, can be avoided.

Gradually, under the influence of the vacuum created by the apparatus, the milk ducts are stretched and the nipple is stretched beyond the areola. In some cases, the period of wearing the device can be increased or decreased, depending on the result achieved. However, it should be noted that in the case of tightly inverted nipples, this method is absolutely useless.

In addition to the described method, the patient may be offered others: wearing special corrective pads (used during breastfeeding) and breast massage.

Unfortunately, all these methods are not effective enough, and when positive dynamics are achieved, after a while, one can again observe the return of the nipples to their original position.


Surgical treatment of inverted nipple

As before any other surgical intervention, a mandatory complete examination of the patient's body is required. This is done, first of all, in order to exclude oncological diseases, as well as to find out all possible contraindications to general anesthesia (if any) and to check for allergic reactions.

The operation to correct inverted nipples can be carried out according to two methods, the choice of which is made by the patient herself, depending on the desire to become a mother and breastfeed in the future. If there is a need to preserve the integrity of the milk ducts, then the dissection of the connective tissue is performed in a minimal amount. Doctors warn that with such plastic surgery of the inverted nipple, the desired result is achieved only in 75% of cases. If pregnancy is not included in the patient's plans, then the surgeon makes rather deep incisions above the nipple, as a result of which most of the connective tissue is dissected. 95% of these interventions lead to the successful correction of inverted nipples.


Correction of the considered pathology refers to minor surgical interventions and can be carried out not only under general, but also under local anesthesia. If the preservation of the integrity of the milk ducts does not matter, then during the operation, the bundles of connective tissue that hold the nipple are dissected, as a result of which it is elongated and pulled outward. If a woman chooses to continue lactation, surgery is a microsurgical correction. At the same time, a small incision of the areola is made under a microscope, and connective tissue cords are also dissected.

Correction of an inverted nipple can be carried out as a separate procedure, and simultaneously with a breast lift or reduction. The duration of the operation is no more than one hour. Recovery occurs quite quickly, swelling and cyanosis of the skin disappear after a few days, and the seams after healing are almost invisible. During rehabilitation, a temporary decrease in the sensitivity of the nipples is possible. The result achieved is usually long-term.


Postoperative rehabilitation

Inverted nipple plastic surgery is performed in a day hospital. The first day after the operation, the patient should be under the supervision of medical personnel: if necessary, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs can be administered during this period. An extract is usually made on the 2-3rd day after the intervention.

  • Exclusion of excessive physical activity.
  • The prohibition of visiting the solarium, sauna and prolonged exposure to the sun (for several months).
  • It is impossible to mechanically irritate the operated mammary glands.
  • The prohibition of applying a heat source to the chest, and taking excessively hot baths and showers is not recommended.
  • Applying creams and greasy ointments to the seams is contraindicated.

In the event of the formation of a hematoma or compaction, it is recommended to treat the affected area with heparin ointment, however, these measures should be taken only after consultation with your doctor.

Possible Complications

After the rehabilitation period, some undesirable consequences may occur, such as:

  • The appearance of scars.
  • Complete or partial loss of sensation in the nipple area - occurs if the nerve endings were damaged during the operation.
  • Infection and suppuration in the area of ​​intervention is possible - to combat this phenomenon, the patient is prescribed a course of antibiotics at discharge.

Contraindications for surgery

Nipple correction cannot be performed if the patient is under the age of majority. Other contraindications to plastic surgery are:

  • Mastopathy (diffuse or nodular).
  • Diabetes.
  • Blood clotting disorders.
  • Chronic or infectious diseases.
  • Tendency to form keloid scars on the skin.
  • Incomplete period of breastfeeding (at the time of the operation, more than a year should have passed from the day of birth).

A qualified surgeon will perform the operation only after a thorough diagnosis of the patient for all the diseases listed above, fully making sure that there are no contraindications to the procedure.

Prevention

The only way to avoid the pathology of inverted nipples is to avoid situations in which it can develop. It is necessary to protect the chest from injury, not to buy or wear excessively tight underwear, listen to your body and consult a doctor if you suspect breast disease. At the slightest deviation from the norm, a woman is obliged to visit a mammologist and receive competent treatment in a timely manner.


Operation cost

The operation on the inverted nipple is microinvasive, the intervention is minimal, and the duration of the procedure does not exceed one hour. That is why today a large number of clinics offer this service, not only in the capital or St. Petersburg, but also in other cities of the country. The average cost of correction ranges from 40 to 60 thousand rubles. This difference is determined by the region where the operation is performed, as well as the level of the clinic offering the procedure. Do not forget that before the intervention, a complete diagnosis of the patient's condition should be carried out, thereby, the costs of tests, ultrasound, doctor's consultations, etc. will be added to the previously indicated cost.

Appreciate yourself, love, take care of your health! Listen to your body and in case of any suspicion, do not be afraid to consult a doctor. Be healthy!

So, if you have noticed that…


CHEST INCREASES

1. You are gaining weight.

After puberty, the breast grows as the whole body grows. Why is the weight growing? You can eat more, move less, sleep less, or live with stress. Plus or minus a kilogram is natural. If the weight gain is greater, the risk of getting cancer increases.

2. You are expecting your period, have started taking oral contraceptives, or are pregnant

Hormones affect breast size. If both breasts are enlarged, there is nothing to worry about.


BREAST REDUCES

3. You lose weight

Breasts are made up of fat, so if you're losing weight, they'll be the first part of your body you'll notice. If your weight and breasts are decreasing for no apparent reason, you should see a doctor. After all, it could be hyperthyroidism or another disease.

4. New menstrual cycle

If the breast increases before menstruation, it means that after it the swelling will go away and it will decrease. There are no reasons for concern.


ONE BREAST IS BIGGER THAN THE OTHER

5. Nothing special

The breasts are not symmetrical, so if they have always had a different size and shape, everything is fine.

6. Breast Cancer

If the shape of one breast changes, it's time to get tested for breast cancer.


IRRITATION ON THE SKIN UNDER THE BREAST

7. Allergy

This happens when the underwire of the bra is made of nickel, the soap did not wash off after bathing, or you wore a sweater that irritates the skin. Hydrocortisone ointment will help you. If the irritation has not gone away after a few days, see your doctor.

8. Intertriginous dermatitis

Or mischief. Very often in the summer the skin under the breast is rubbed and inflamed. Antibiotic ointment, steroids or hydrocortisone will relieve irritation, and a properly fitting bra will support your breasts and prevent recurrence.

9. Linen is already stale

Infrequent washing does preserve clothes, but bacteria or fungi can settle in it. The skin under the breast sweats a lot and it is very good for them.


YOU HAVE VISIBLE STRETCHES

10. Your weight fluctuates

When the weight jumps, the chest increases and decreases. This causes stretch marks. This often happens after pregnancy and in women with thin, inelastic skin.


VERY DARK OR LIGHT nipples

11. Nothing special

No, it's not cancer. Every woman's nipples are colored differently. The main thing is to be symmetrical.


VERY LARGE OR SMALL NIPPLES

12. Nothing special

Our bodies are just different. If they are symmetrical, there is no problem.


BUCKLES ON THE AREOLS

13. Nothing special

The breast is for feeding babies. These tubercles are the outlets of the milk ducts. Sometimes they increase a little, so if the nipple is surrounded by small bumps, you are fine.


ONE LARGE BUMP ON AREOLA

14. Benign cyst or malignant neoplasm

Get tested as soon as possible to see if there is any cause for concern.


HAIR AROUND THE NIPPLE

15. Polycystic ovaries

If you have started to grow hairs around the nipple, testosterone levels may have risen due to PCOS. Other symptoms are acne and irregular periods. Polycystic can lead to infertility, so you need to see a doctor.


NIPPLES ITCHING

16. Shampoo or soap residue irritates the skin

Rinse the skin with water and lubricate with hydrocortisone ointment.

17. Clothes allergy

This may be a reaction to the dye of a new bra or a wool sweater. Lubricate the nipples with hydrocortisone ointment and change clothes.

18. A new cycle will start soon

Sometimes hormonal changes cause itching.

19. Paget's disease

Or breast nipple cancer is a very rare disease. Its symptoms are itchy nipples and areolas, flaky skin, a flattened nipple, and yellow or bloody discharge from the nipple. Urgently to the doctor.


PAIN AND BURNS IN THE CHEST

20. A new cycle will start soon

Depending on the phase of the cycle, the structure and sensitivity of the breast may change. you to the doctor. One consolation, if you have bumps, but there is no pain, then most likely it is not a tumor.

21. Too Much Caffeine

For some people, caffeine causes chest pain, so just start drinking less coffee, tea, and soda and the problem will go away.


WHITE CLUDY DISCHARGE FROM NIPPLES

22. Something stimulates milk production

Breasts are needed to feed babies. If the discharge looks like milk, something seems to be stimulating milk production, even if you are not pregnant or nursing a small child. The doctor will prescribe medicine for you.

23. Side effect of antidepressants or antipsychotics

Some medications increase levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production. In most cases, this is done safely, although unpleasantly.


OTHER DISCHARGE FROM THE NIPPLE

24. Benign neoplasm

Known as papilloma. you to the doctor.


NIPPLES HARD

25. You are horny

If the nipples are symmetrical but hard, there is nothing to worry about. The muscles around the nipple just contracted. It usually has to do with sex.

26. You are cold

If it's not about sex, then the simplest explanation is cold. Just warm up.


INTRACTION OR NUTS IN THE NIPLE OR BREAST

27. Breast Cancer

Any dents can be a sign of cancer. You need to see a doctor ASAP.


SEALING IN THE BREAST

28. Everything is fine with you

Now it's just another phase of the cycle, when the breasts become denser. This is fine. Breast lumps, which could mean something serious, can only be detected with a mammogram.


VEINS VISIBLE THROUGH THE SKIN

29. Risk of skin cancer

Light skin is usually pale and translucent. If so, you're at high risk for sunburn, but as long as you don't tan too much and use sunscreen, there shouldn't be any major problems.


BREASTS LIKE ORANGE

30. Breast Cancer

If smooth breasts suddenly become uneven like orange peels, and halos and nipples become hard, it may be cancer. You need to see a doctor ASAP.


Bump on chest

31. Benign cyst

If it is round and smooth and can be moved, it may be a benign fluid-filled cyst. It's not a tumor. you to the doctor.

32. Breast Cancer

Most often, pain and neoplasms in the chest are the result of hormones. Every time you encounter them, the question arises: is it cancer or can it become cancer? Only a doctor can answer.

By themselves, "special" nipples do not pose a danger if they are not accompanied by any inflammation and disease.

When flat nipples are present from birth, the reasons may be as follows:

  • heredity. If someone in the family had such a problem (mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, etc.), there is a possibility that the newborn girl will have the same thing;
  • underdevelopment of the milk ducts. They are very short and it turns out that the nipple is pulled inward;
  • breast diseases or pathologies of the reproductive system;
  • genetic disorders.

In 90% of cases, this phenomenon is bilateral, i.e. both left and right breasts.

If the nipple becomes retracted during life, then this may be facilitated by:

  • improper breast care, poor hygiene;
  • wearing a tight bra;
  • infections, inflammatory processes, diseases of the mammary glands;
  • consequences of surgical interventions;
  • endocrine system disorders.

In most cases, this is a one-sided phenomenon.

What does an inverted nipple look like?

Flat nipples are considered when they are at the same level with the areola, and inverted nipples are completely pressed inward. Normal ones should rise above the areola.

There are two types of inverted nipples: invented (causing more problems and discomfort) and hiding. The former are deeply drawn inward and always remain so, in spite of any mechanical irritation. The second - are at the level with the areola, but can act during breastfeeding, nipple stimulation, during intercourse.

Depressed nipples look like a fossa or slit in the center of the areola. You can see photos of inverted nipples below.

Rice. Inverted nipples, photo

If the inverted nipple of the breast began to change, swell, hurt, if for no reason there was a discharge from it and a feeling of discomfort, you should urgently consult a doctor.

Problems and Solutions

Consider what consequences the presence of pathology can lead to and how to deal with them.

Breast-feeding. To fully feed the baby, it is necessary that he properly grasp the breast, and with inverted nipples this can be problematic. Therefore, both the baby and the mother experience discomfort.

How to deal with it? If the nipple is hidden, then when stimulated by the hand or when the baby touches the lips, it will stretch and everything will return to normal. The main thing is to prevent overflow of the mammary gland with milk, because then it becomes very elastic and it is harder for the child to take the breast and suck it. And if it is still full, it is better to express a little before feeding so that it becomes softer.

If the nipple is invented, then a different approach is needed here. In pharmacies and stores for newborns and young mothers, special silicone breast pads are available for sale that mimic a normal elongated nipple. They should be worn immediately before feeding, and not worn all the time. In many cases, such nozzles are able to correct the nipple to a normal state and then you can do without them. Most importantly, be patient and encourage the baby to attach properly to the breast. Make sure that the little one captures the areola completely, and not just the nipple. Choose a position so that you have free hands to help the baby.

Rice. Inverted nipple pad, photo

You can also prepare the breast for feeding during pregnancy by performing a simple exercise: with one hand we hold the breast, and with the thumb and ring fingers of the other hand we grab the nipple and gently, but with some effort, scroll, trying to pull it out. Exercise to do a couple of times a day for 15-30 seconds. Or rhythmically squeeze the nipples with your thumbs, first horizontally, then vertically for a minute, 2 times a day. You can not perform these manipulations in the first two trimesters of pregnancy, as well as with the threat of miscarriage and premature birth.

Infections and diseases of the mammary glands. To avoid such troubles, first of all, proper breast care is necessary.

For this you need:

  • wear underwear that is appropriate in size to avoid squeezing, chafing and diaper rash;
  • carry out daily hygiene procedures, paying special attention to inverted nipples, because they can collect dirt, sweat droplets, which can lead to inflammation and infectious diseases; use a contrast shower;
  • perform self-massage of the chest, supporting with one hand, and with the other - perform circular movements around the entire periphery, using stroking and kneading;
  • self-examine the chest for the presence of seals;
  • visit a gynecologist and mammologist 1-2 times a year for preventive purposes, undergo an ultrasound examination;
  • if you notice any changes in the breast (change in appearance, shape, appearance of seals, pain, discharge, wounds), you should immediately consult a doctor. After the examination, as necessary, he can prescribe the necessary tests, ultrasound and mammography, MRI or computed tomography. It is important to diagnose the disease in time and start treatment.

psychological factor. Most often, teenage girls face this problem. Most girls who have such an anatomical feature consider it unaesthetic, which causes many complexes, self-esteem and self-confidence decrease. And girls who are already sexually active experience discomfort, shyness and even disgust during sex, which prevents both the girl and her partner from fully enjoying intimacy. This directly affects the relationship as a whole.

What to do? First of all, you need to love yourself for who you are. You need to understand for yourself that an inverted nipple is not a sign of deformity or inferiority, but simply a distinctive feature of your body, which can be considered a highlight. If you stop dwelling on this nuance, it becomes clear that you are no different from others, lead the same lifestyle, and there will be one less problem in relation to your loved one. If you are not able to cope with the complex on your own, you can visit a psychologist or seminars to improve your own self-esteem.

Many women want to correct the inverted nipples of the mammary glands to a normal state. In this case, you can not do without consulting a professional doctor who will help determine the method of correction. With hidden nipples, special exercises, massages and the use of vacuum nozzles on the chest are recommended.

Rice. vacuum nozzle

This method aims to gradually lengthen the milk ducts and release the nipple. Be sure to periodically remove them and observe the chest to avoid irritation and injury. If suddenly this happens, you should abandon this method. When the nipples are invented, then doctors agree that this procedure is absolutely ineffective. In this case, the problem can be solved only by resorting to surgical intervention. Before this, a complete examination of the mammary glands is carried out to identify or absence of any diseases that may be a contraindication for this method. The operation is performed both under general and local anesthesia. It lasts about one hour. Recovery is fast enough. During the rehabilitation period, which can last several months, you should refrain from going to baths, saunas, visiting a solarium and sunbathing, as well as excessive physical exertion.

Inverted nipples are an anatomical feature of the mammary glands. Many women live with this all their lives, enjoy their bodies without encountering any problems and inconveniences. The main thing is to monitor your health, properly care for your breasts, and just love yourself.