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Women with inverted nipples can have problems breastfeeding, or may wish to have the inversion corrected purely for aesthetic reasons. Normal nipples in men vary in size, shape, and level. Excessively protruding nipples can rub against clothing causing discomfort or may show through clothing. These are among the reasons my patients request nipple reduction.
Nipple inversion is typically classified into three groups;
Grade one is where the nipple can be pulled inwards, but at other times protrude. A “shy” nipple can point out in cold temperatures such as cold water or can be brought out with some massage or stimulation.
Grade two inversion means the nipples naturally invert, although can be pulled outwards, allowing it to sit in an everted position and appear to stick out. Once released, the nipple will gradually sink back into an inverted position.
In Grade three, true inverted nipples are present from birth and do not protrude with cold or stimulation. These nipples are so inverted to the underlying breast tissue that they cannot be pulled outwards.
This is usually caused by a connection to the underlying tissue, ligaments, and skin. Ligaments along the milk ducts, which connect to the nipples, are shorter and pull the nipple in towards the breast tissue.
If nipples become inverted later in life, or after breastfeeding, the cause can be that the skin of the breast has become looser and more relaxed around the nipples, making the nipples appear to be inverted.
If a previously ‘normal’ nipple suddenly becomes inverted, it is important to see your doctor, as this could potentially be serious.