Nipple inversion occurs more often in women, though can also affect men. A common concern with inverted nipples amongst women is not being able to breastfeed. However, most experts agree that females with inverted nipples are still able to breastfeed and that it may even protract the nipple.

A traditional method used by plastic surgeons to correct inverted nipples involves making a transverse incision across the areola and through the nipple, resulting in a division of the milk ducts. This division of milk ducts appears to fix the inverted nipple.

A recently developed and more novel technique adopted by many surgeons involves piercing the nipple to encourage protraction. The nipple is pierced and a special nipple shield is used which acts as a washer to cover the areola and hold the piercing above the level of skin. There are numerous advantages for most women who opt for the piercing technique, such as no interference with nipple sensation (as only a small section of milk ducts are divided), the ability to breastfeed, and minimal scarring.

Surgery for correcting inverted nipples is relatively undisruptive. The procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic and many patients are able to go home a few hours after surgery. Recovery is typically rapid, with relatively minimal pain and swelling. Most patients return to work and regular daily activities a day after the procedure.

Complications when surgically correcting inverted nipples are infrequent, but may include:

• Re-inversion infection
• Tissue injury
• Excessive bleeding
• Slightly mismatched nipples
• Temporary loss of sensations or numbness
• Inability to breastfeed