Inverted nipples are not an uncommon condition affecting 3% of the female population, and in 80% it may affect both breasts. It has cosmetic implications and functional impact as it may mean the female is unable to breastfeed and in certain more severe cases it may cause recurrent infections. Not all patients affected will seek the advice of a Plastic surgeon.
The commonest presentation of the inverted female nipples is congenital which means from the time of birth. However, it is important to exclude other conditions that may cause this condition, for example, certain breast cancers. Hence, if you develop this condition or you are concerned it is best to have a discussion with your GP or a Plastic surgeon in order to undergo an assessment, and if indicated the appropriate investigation, and treatment carried out.
Many techniques for the correction of congenital inverted nipples already exist. For the very mild form of nipple inversion the Niplette, an off-the-counter device may give improvement. However, for the more severe and persistent conditions surgical intervention is warranted and for this many techniques exist.
The Trampoline method is a simple method of operating on the nipple to evert it and improve its cosmetic appearance with minimal risks.
The procedure can be carried out under a local anaesthetic or a general anaesthetic, and in both instances as a day case procedure. The recovery period takes 7-10 days and warrants wearing a bra with a hole cut for the nipple for a period of 3 weeks to allow healing.
