Research > Inverted Nipple Repair

Cost of Inverted Nipple Repair

According to a sampling of plastic surgeons nationwide, the average cost of inverted nipple correction can range from $2,000 to $4000 U.S. dollars. Some insurance coverage may be available, depending on your policy (please consult your insurance carrier).

Find a Inverted Nipple Repair Surgeon

Benefits of Inverted Nipple Repair

For women or men affected by the embarrassment and discomfort of inverted nipples, the benefits of inverted nipple correction can be numerous. Advantages range from greater confidence in one’s appearance, to increased comfort during intimacy, to a woman gaining the ability to breastfeed (with certain surgical methods).

How is inverted nipple repair performed?

Inverted nipple correction is performed by one of two methods, both of which involve releasing scar tissue or shortened milk ducts that keep the nipple inverted. There are two commonly performed versions of inverted nipple repair: one which severs the milk ducts, one which does not.

In both surgeries, the procedure begins with the surgeon making a discreet incision at the base of the nipple. For the method that severs the milk ducts, tiny surgical instruments are used to release the bound tissues and shortened ducts. A suture, placed beneath the nipple, helps hold it in the new protruding position. In less severe cases where the milk ducts are not severed, the nipples and the areola are lifted from the breast and stitched into a new protruding position. The surgeon makes the decision as to which method is used based on the severity of the patient’s inverted nipple condition.

How much pain is associated with inverted nipple repair?

For most inverted nipple correction patients, the nipples are sore after the procedure, with soreness subsiding within a few days. Most patients report that the discomfort is easily controlled by prescribed medication.

Inverted Nipple Repair Recovery

Most inverted nipple correction patients are permitted to go home several hours after surgery, and are able to shower the next day. However, surgeons may have different post-operative instructions. Normally, sutures are removed at the first post-operative follow-up appointment, which should be conducted within one week. Most patients return to work within 48 hours, unless they are involved in a strenuous occupation.

There may be some swelling and discomfort in the weeks that follow, but this will subside. Most often, swelling is mild to moderate, peaks two or three days after the procedure, and then disappears rapidly over the following three weeks. If it does not, patients should report this to their surgeons.

Risks of Inverted Nipple Repair

There are some risks associated with inverted nipple correction, such as the impairment of the ability to breastfeed if the milk duct severance method is utilized. However, most women affected by inverted nipples would not be able to breastfeed anyways; therefore, this may not be considered a risk. There may be very limited nipple sensation following inverted nipple repair.

Who is the ideal candidate for inverted nipple repair?

Ideal candidates for inverted nipple correction are adults in good physical health and have been affected by a permanently inverted nipple since birth or puberty. They should be prepared for the potential risks involved and have realistic expectations regarding results.