The article is professionally reviewed by Dr. Nguyễn Đăng Đại from the Aesthetic Center, Vinmec Times City International Hospital.
Inverted nipples can occur in both men and women. This condition is often overlooked as it does not directly affect health. However, inverted nipples may indicate underlying issues, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
1. What causes inverted nipples?
Inverted nipples are when the nipple is flat or pulled inward instead of protruding outward as usual. Both men and women can experience this condition. For women, inverted nipples during breastfeeding can make nursing challenging.
Some people are born with inverted nipples, while others develop the condition later. It can also be a symptom of certain illnesses.
Common causes of inverted nipples:
- Breast infections or mastitis.
- Dilated milk ducts, which involve abnormal widening of ducts in breast tissue.
- Subareolar abscess (abscess under the nipple area).
- Complications from breast surgery.
- Breast cancer.
2. Are inverted nipples dangerous?
Most cases of inverted nipples present from birth are harmless and do not affect health. However, some women may seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.
If you suddenly develop inverted nipples or notice inversion in only one nipple, especially with the following symptoms, consult a doctor:
- Unusual nipple discharge (milk when not pregnant or breastfeeding, yellow, gray, or bloody discharge).
- A lump in the breast.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.
- Nipple ulcers.
- Breast pain or discomfort.
- Persistent fever.
- Changes in the shape or size of the breast.
3. Inverted nipples in breastfeeding women
Severe cases of inverted nipples can affect a woman’s ability to breastfeed. The difficulty of breastfeeding depends on the degree of nipple inversion
- Grade 1: You can gently pull the nipple outward, and it stays in this position. This level usually does not cause significant breastfeeding issues.
- Grade 2: You can pull the nipple outward, but it’s not easy, and the nipple retracts once released. Breastfeeding may become challenging.
- Grade 3: The nipple cannot be pulled outward manually. When you attempt to push the nipple out, it immediately retracts. Breastfeeding in this case can be very difficult or even impossible.
Although inverted nipples can make breastfeeding harder, the baby can still latch onto the areola and pull the nipple toward the back of their throat, allowing breastfeeding to continue.
Additionally, nipple stimulation often helps the nipple protrude. In many cases, inverted nipples naturally protrude during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
4. Treatments for Inverted Nipples
At-Home Treatments
You can use the Hoffman technique to treat inverted nipples at home. This is a manual exercise designed to help the nipple protrude. Follow these steps:
- Place both thumbs on opposite sides of the base of the nipple.
- Press your thumbs firmly into the breast tissue and gently stretch them away from the nipple base.
- Repeat the exercise on the other breast.
Perform this exercise for 5 minutes per breast, twice daily. Over time, this may help the nipples to protrude. If needed, consult your doctor for guidance and detailed instructions on this technique.
Note: Avoid frequent nipple stimulation during pregnancy, as it can increase uterine contractions and lead to preterm labor unless instructed by a doctor.
Using Suction Devices
Suction devices create a vacuum to pull the nipple outward. These non-invasive tools are widely available on the market. Ensure you purchase from reputable sources and carefully follow the instructions. Since the nipple area is sensitive, improper or excessive use can cause pain. These devices require consistent use over a long period to see improvements.
Surgical Treatment
A doctor may use absorbable sutures to keep the nipple in a protruded position and remove any fibrous tissue in the breast if necessary. Various surgical techniques can reshape the nipple while preserving its sensation, avoiding scars, and maintaining normal function of milk ducts and glands. This ensures no impact on breastfeeding ability while concealing any scars.
At Vinmec Times City International Hospital, aesthetic surgeons perform painless procedures without the need for medication or bandage removal. Depending on your preference, local or general anesthesia can be administered. Results are immediate, and you can resume daily activities and work on the same day.
If inverted nipples cause self-consciousness, concern about breastfeeding, or are accompanied by other abnormal breast symptoms, visit Vinmec Times City International Hospital for consultation, treatment, and access to modern and effective medical services.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
