Inverted Nipple Treatment in Orlando, FL

If you were born with inverted nipples, you may have no other symptoms than the inward position of this part of your breast. If nipple inversion has occurred during adulthood, the symptoms that coincide with the change will relate to the underlying cause. For example, if the nipples are inverted due to inflammation or infection, you may develop symptoms such as breast tenderness and redness around the nipple. Discharge from the nipple, a lump, and the breast feeling warm to the touch are also symptoms of infection or inflammation. If you notice these symptoms, or others, such as scaly, flaky, or itchy skin on the breasts, a lump, or pain, contact your doctor for a thorough examination.

Any person can be born with inverted nipples, even infant boys. Development of inverted nipples later in life may be more common among women who are breastfeeding, due to injury to the mammary ducts. Smoking can also contribute to a higher risk of inversion, as can aging. As a woman approaches menopause, her milk ducts get shorter and wider. This could result in the nipples being pulled inward.

A doctor can diagnose inverted nipples via a thorough breast exam. During this examination, the doctor will observe the areola and nipple area and may use their fingers to press on the breast tissue around the nipple to see if that draws the nipple outward. Other procedures may be ordered to help determine what is causing the nipples to point inward. Options include needle biopsy, breast ultrasound, or mammogram.

It isn't completely abnormal to have inverted nipples. Up to 10% of newborn girls are born with their nipples pointing inward. In this case, most affected girls have inverted nipples in both breasts. If your nipples have changed from pointing outward to pointing inward, you should talk to your doctor. It is important to determine why this change has occurred.

If you were born with inverted nipples, nothing may happen if you don't seek treatment. Often, treatment for inverted nipples is done as an elective procedure to help a person feel more comfortable with their appearance. If one or both nipples have suddenly become inverted, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will find the underlying cause of this change and provide the necessary treatment based on your diagnosis.

Breast shape seldomly impairs one's ability to breastfeed. Usually, the baby takes in a mouthful of the breast, which draws out the nipple naturally during sucking. Women with inverted nipples want to educate themselves regarding how to promote optimal latching well in advance. Having a few techniques in place can be immensely helpful should problems arise.