Correction of Inverted Nipples
The nipples are connected to the underlying breast tissue by means of tiny tubes called ducts. Nipple inversion occurs when these ducts are too short and pull the nipple inwards. It is important for the entire breast to be examined carefully for nipple inversion that occurs over a short period of time as it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying cancer.
Why do patients request correction of inverted nipples?
Patients are embarrassed by the appearance of the nipples especially if just one side is affected. This results in asymmetry since the inverted nipple does not respond to cold weather or stimulation. Patients are self-conscious about this especially in beachwear or swim wear. Patients also find it difficult to breast-feed with an inverted nipple.
What does surgery for this condition involve?
Correction of inverted nipples can be carried out either under local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia as a day case procedure. A small incision measuring a few millimetres is made just below the nipple and the shortened ducts are divided. The nipple is everted and held in place with a dissolving suture which is placed under the skin. A small dressing is applied which is removed the following day.
What is the normal postoperative course?
There may be slight bruising or swelling and tenderness at the site of surgery. This usually resolves within a few days. Patients can have a shower as normal and change the small dressing over the nipples themselves every day.
How much time do I need off work?
Patients can return to work within a couple of days of the operation.
Are there any complications of this procedure?
Just like any other operation this procedure could have complications such as bleeding, haematoma formation and infection. Following this procedure there can be a loss of sensation in the nipple and it may not be possible to breast-feed. In a small percentage of cases the inversion of the nipple can recur.
Gynaecomastia is a condition that afflicts men of all ages, right from teens to late 60’s. It is the result of accumulation of fat in the male breast and also of the enlargement of the breast disc
What are the causes of gynaecomastia?
The most common cause of gynaecomastia is idiopathic (meaning that there is no obvious disease which causes this). It can also result from hormonal changes or from the intake of certain medicines.
Why do men seek treatment for gynaecomastia?
Men with gynaecomastia are very embarrassed by their appearance. They do not like to take their t-shirts off in company or to go swimming. This affects their social and family life as they are unable to participate in family activities with their children due to their embarrassment.
How is gynaecomastia treated?
Gynaecomastia can be dealt with by a procedure which involves a combination of liposuction of the fat accumulated in the breast and excision of the breast disc if required. This procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually involves a stay of one night in hospital. In the event that liposuction alone is required it may be possible to have this procedure carried out as a day case.
Following surgery there is some discomfort which is more than adequately treated by painkillers. There is bruising and swelling in the breast. There may not be a significant change in the size of the breast following surgery in the first few weeks as the fat that is removed is replaced by fluids . In approximately six weeks this fluid will be absorbed and a reduction in size is then visible.
What is the normal postoperative care?
Following surgery a small dressing is applied to the site of the incisions for liposuction or for removal of the breast disc. Sutures are removed a week after surgery. A pressure bandage or binder is applied around the chest to decrease the swelling. This is normally worn for a week after the procedure.
How much time do I need off work?
Most people are able to return to work, which does not involve heavy manual labour in approximately two weeks. It may take up to four weeks for certain individuals to be able to resume normal activities at work and for leisure.
What are the complications of this procedure?
Treatment of gynaecomastia can have complications just like any other surgical procedure. These include bleeding, haematoma (clot under the skin), seroma (fluid collection under the skin). There is a change in the sensation over the breast and in the nipple. There can be asymmetry (difference in size) or rippling of the skin. Very rarely is it necessary for patients to have a revision procedure following treatment of gynaecomastia.
Contact information:
Wooland Hospital,
Rothwell Road,
Kettering ,
NN16 8XF
Tel: 01536 414515
Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital,
Scraptoft Lane,
Leicester,
LE5 1HY
Tel: 0116-276 9401
BMI Threeshires Hospital,
The Avenue,
Cliftonville,
Northampton
NN1 5DR
Tel: 01604 620311
Clinic Medical Director,
SK:N Laser Clinic,
29 Gallowtree Gate,
Leicester,
LE1 5AD
Tel: 0116 242 2219