J Korean Soc Aesthetic Plast Surg.  2009 Jun;15(2):127-131.

Correction of Inverted Nipple Using Lateral Minimal Incision and Twice Purse-String Sutures

• Yoon SY
• Kang MG

Abstract

Inverted nipples are histologically characterized by shortened lactiferous ducts and less connective tissue beneath the nipple. Some authors suggested that the major pathophysiologic basis in mild to moderated cases, is shortened ducts, but not lack of connective tissue at the base of the nipple. Under local or intravenous sedation, the nipple was everted. A small incision was made on lateral side at the nipple-areola junction. The lactiferous ducts and surrounding connective tissues were divided by sharp dissection only through vertical direction. Two purse-string sutures using Nylon 4-0 were performed for the maintenance of corrected nipple. The small incision was closed by the tissue adhesive. From May 2007 to January 2008, 137 nipples in 70 patients were treated. Twenty five nipples were graded as grade I and 112 nipples as II. There were no major complications except recurred inversion in 2 cases. Of these, one case had some inflammatory discharge. Almost patients(97.1%) were satisfied with their results. Advantages to using this technique include(1) no scars on the flat surface of the areola,(2) adequate blood and nerve supply to the nipple,(3) simple and easy to learn, and(4) no need of external stent or traction.

Keyword

Nipples; Suture technique; Breast