Nipple Inversion
An inverted nipple lies flat or is pulled inwards rather than projecting from the breast. It may affect one or both sides and can vary from a mild inversion that corrects with stimulation to a nipple that remains tightly retracted.
Some women seek treatment because of appearance, asymmetry, irritation or difficulty with hygiene or breastfeeding. The most appropriate correction depends on the severity of the inversion and whether preserving the milk ducts is important.
Why do nipples become inverted?
Most inverted nipples are present from breast development and are caused by short milk ducts or tight bands of tissue beneath the nipple. Inversion can also develop following:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Previous breast surgery
- Infection or inflammation
- Scarring beneath the nipple
- Age-related changes in the breast
- Changes within the breast tissue
A nipple that has always been inverted is usually not a cause for concern. However, a nipple that becomes newly inverted—particularly on one side—should be assessed by a breast specialist before cosmetic correction. Appropriate breast examination and imaging may be required to exclude an underlying condition.
Who is suitable for correction?
Surgery may be considered if the inversion is persistent and causes concern about appearance, asymmetry, hygiene or function. The ideal technique depends on:
- Whether one or both nipples are affected
- The degree of inversion
- Whether the nipple can be pulled out manually
- Previous breast surgery or infection
- Future plans for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- The importance of preserving nipple sensation and milk ducts
How is nipple inversion corrected?
The procedure is usually performed through a small incision at the base of the nipple, with the scar positioned as discreetly as possible.
For milder inversion, the restricting tissue can sometimes be released while preserving the milk ducts. Internal sutures or small tissue flaps may then be used to support the nipple in its new position.
More severe inversion may require division of the shortened milk ducts to achieve a reliable correction. This approach may reduce or remove the ability to breastfeed from the treated breast and will therefore be considered carefully, particularly in women who have not completed their families.
Recovery
Inverted nipple correction is usually performed as a day-case procedure under local or general anaesthetic. A protective dressing may be used to prevent pressure on the corrected nipple while it heals.
Most patients experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort for the first few days. Normal daily activities can usually be resumed quickly, although pressure on the nipples and strenuous exercise should be avoided during the early healing period.
Risks and limitations
Potential risks include:
- Bleeding, infection or delayed healing
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Small or visible scars
- Flattening or recurrent inversion
- Differences in nipple projection or shape
- Reduced ability to breastfeed
- Rarely, compromised blood supply to the nipple
No technique can guarantee permanent projection, and some degree of recurrence is possible, particularly with more severe inversion. During consultation, I will assess the cause and degree of inversion and recommend a personalised technique that balances reliable correction with preservation of nipple function wherever possible.
Before & After
Coming soon
Before-and-after photographs are shared only with each patient’s consent. Examples will be added here in due course — in the meantime, Dr Borges is happy to discuss expected results at your consultation.
The incision is tiny, made at the base of the nipple itself, and heals to a fine, barely visible line within the natural creases of the nipple-areola area within a few months.
Why choose this procedure
Advantages of Nipple Inversion Correction
Quick, minimally invasive procedure
Often performed under local anaesthetic in under 90 minutes, with minimal disruption to your day.
Fast recovery
Most patients need little to no time off work and resume normal activity within days.
Minimal, well-hidden scarring
The tiny incision heals within the natural contours of the nipple, becoming barely visible.
Durable projection
Once healed, projection is generally well maintained, though as with any tissue, some natural change over time is possible.
Improved comfort and confidence
Many women feel more comfortable in fitted clothing and more confident when undressed after correction.
Can be combined with other breast surgery
Correction can be performed alongside augmentation, a lift or reduction where more than one concern is being addressed.
Nipple inversion correction is a cosmetic procedure and is not routinely funded by the NHS or private medical insurance. Every plan is different, so an exact quote follows your consultation, and a price guide is available on request.
Book a ConsultationLocations
Consultations and surgery take place at accredited hospitals and clinics across Kent and London, with consultations available in English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4UL
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Wells Health, Fordcombe Hospital
Fordcombe Road, Fordcombe, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0RD
Google Map →Wells Health, Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Tonbridge Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4QJ
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