Many women feel self-conscious about inverted nipples, and plenty of them spend years wondering whether surgery is worth it. Inverted nipple correction is a short procedure, but it has one long-term trade-off that makes timing important. Before you book a consultation, here are seven questions to think through.

For an overview of the procedure itself, see Dr. Stephanie Power’s inverted nipple correction page. This post covers the decisions that come before it.

1. Have my nipples always been inverted, or is this new?

Inverted nipples can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life. Many women have congenital inversion, and it can range from mild to severe.

The difference matters. If inversion appears later in life, especially on only one side, it should be medically evaluated to rule out breast cancer before any cosmetic treatment is considered. If your nipples have always looked this way, that step is less of a concern, but it is still worth raising at your consultation.

2. Am I finished having children and breastfeeding?

This is the most important question on the list. After inverted nipple correction, you will not be able to breastfeed or pump.

For this reason, many women choose to wait until they have finished their pregnancies and breastfeeding before having surgery. If you are unsure whether you want children in the future, it is usually better to wait.

3. Is one nipple affected, or both?

Inverted nipple correction can treat one or both nipples. Candidates are people with one or both nipples pulled inward, whether from congenital or acquired causes. If only one side is affected, mention it at your consultation so Dr. Power can plan for symmetry, since asymmetry is one of the listed risks of the procedure.

4. Am I comfortable with local anesthetic?

Many patients are surprised to learn that inverted nipple correction is often a minor procedure. It can be performed under local or general anesthetic, and minor breast procedures like this one may be done under local anesthetic in a minor procedure room.

Here is how it works: Dr. Power makes a small incision at the lower border of the areola, releases the tethering that pulls the nipple inward, and then stitches the nipple to a protective dressing to help it keep its new projection.

Because it is a minor procedure, Power Plastic Surgery offers a quick, no-hassle online booking experience for minor breast procedures.

5. Can I take a few days off and skip the gym for two weeks?

Recovery is quick, but it is not instant. Here is what to plan for:

  • Pain is usually managed with medication for several days.
  • Many patients return to office work within a few days.
  • Sutures and the protective dressing are removed 10 to 14 days after surgery.
  • Avoid exercise for two weeks, since it can disrupt your dressings or increase the risk of bruising, swelling or bleeding.
  • Your scar will continue to heal and fade over about one year.

If your schedule includes a race, a sports season or a physically demanding job in the two weeks after surgery, plan your date around it.

6. What does a good result look like for me?

Inverted nipple surgery has a high success rate. Results do depend on where you start, though. If your inversion is mild, your nipples may still become erect after surgery. Severe cases generally do not.

Loss of sensation should not occur after the procedure, although a change in nipple sensation is listed among the possible risks. Recurrence after correction is rare but possible. Talking about your starting point and goals openly at your consultation is the best way to set realistic expectations.

7. Am I comfortable with the risks?

Like any surgery, inverted nipple correction carries general surgical risks, including bleeding, infection and scarring. Risks specific to this procedure include:

  • Recurrence of the inversion
  • Asymmetry between the two sides
  • Change in nipple sensation

Dr. Power will go through these with you and explain how they apply to your situation.

Inverted Nipples vs. Other Nipple and Areola Concerns

Inverted nipple correction is sometimes confused with other minor breast procedures. Nipple reduction addresses the opposite concern: nipples that are larger or more projected than a patient would like. Areolar reduction addresses the size of the darker skin around the nipple. If you have more than one concern, bring all of them to your consultation so Dr. Power can recommend the right approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I breastfeed after inverted nipple correction?

No. You will not be able to breastfeed or pump after inverted nipple surgery. Many women wait until they have finished having children before having the procedure.

Is inverted nipple correction done under general anesthetic?

It can be done under local or general anesthetic. Minor breast procedures like this one are often performed under local anesthetic in a minor procedure room.

How long until I can go back to work?

Many patients return to office work within a few days. Exercise should be avoided for two weeks.

Will my nipples stay corrected?

The procedure has a high success rate. Recurrence is rare but possible.

How much does inverted nipple correction cost?

Current pricing is listed on our pricing page. Dr. Power will confirm your exact price at your consultation.

Talk to a Female Plastic Surgeon About Inverted Nipple Correction

Many patients find it easier to talk about intimate concerns like inverted nipples with a woman. Dr. Stephanie Power is a board-certified (FRCSC) female plastic surgeon in Toronto. Learn why many patients choose a female plastic surgeon, read more about Dr. Power’s training and background, or contact the practice to book your consultation. You can also call 416-962-1010.

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