There are a lot of choices when a woman is searching for a method of inverted nipple correction. Only that before deciding which one to apply, she should first know the risks and both the advantages and the disadvantages she’s assuming. Even if the correction of inverted nipples it’s not usually difficult to do, there are some important aspect to take into account, especially by women who want to breastfeed their babies.

Nipple stretching

The most common methods used to stretch and correct inverted nipples are the Hoffman technique, the breast pumps and the breast shields. Their action consists of applying pressure on the areola, in order to break down the connective tissues underneath the nipple. These tissues are actually the ones that hold the nipple retracted and disable it from a normal position. If the nipples are too buried, some nipple clamps can be used to draw them out. Some women use breast pumps or some 10 cc syringes instead of it which, as well as the shields, make breastfeeding easier, even if they don’t protract definitively the nipples. However, Hoffman technique and breast shields are not very recommended for inverted nipples correction because a study carried out in 1992 has proved that they might damage the breastfeeding abilities.

Nipple piercing

This unconventional method is used especially by young women when the nipples can be manually protracted. The piercing role is only to retain the nipples from retracting. The problem with this method is the possibility of catching an infection. Not to mention that if the operation is not done by a specialist the nipple tissues can be irreversibly damaged and compromise any future breastfeeding abilities.

Plastic surgery

The surgery’s aim is to correct inverted nipples and make the breasts look as natural as possible. The procedures are done only under general anesthesia and consist of detaching the nipple from the breast and repair or relocate them. Some special situations of inverted nipples correction require the surgeon to sever the mammary ducts. The best thing for the women who want to breastfeed after the surgery is to inform their doctor and, this way, in case of complications, he will do all his best to maintain the milk ducts intact. In order to increase the success chances, patients should choose a certified plastic surgeon for the correction of inverted nipples.

When a woman decides to undergo an inverted nipple correction, she should take into account all the risks and make sure she has the support of her family and a good doctor to take her to the aimed results.