Inverted nipple correction

If a nipple is positioned deeper than the surrounding areola, it is called an inverted nipple. This can occur on one or both sides. Both women and men can be affected. In most cases, it is a harmless condition, but it can be bothersome — for example, when breastfeeding. It is more common than many people think, occurring in about 10% of all nipples.

What symptoms can be caused by an inverted nipple?

Inverted nipples are mostly a cosmetic concern. Women often feel their breasts look less appealing because “something seems to be missing.” However, they can also be more difficult to keep clean, which in some cases may lead to inflammation. Additionally, they can cause problems with breastfeeding.

How does an inverted nipple develop?

During breast development in puberty, the milk glands and nipples grow. The milk ducts connect these two structures. Sometimes, the milk ducts do not grow as much. A nipple may form, but the ducts are too short to allow the nipple to protrude outward. The reason for this is still not fully understood. In rare cases, it may also happen after breastfeeding or during menopause.

Should I be concerned about an inverted nipple?

No, an inverted nipple is almost always harmless. Only if a previously normal nipple becomes inverted for no clear reason should there be concern. In that case, we advise you to visit your general practitioner.

What can V-Klinieken do for you?

During a free consultation, our doctor will assess how far the nipple(s) are inverted. This can vary greatly, even between the two breasts of the same person.

The doctors at V-Klinieken work exclusively with a surgical steel piercing and ring. A piercing is placed through the nipple and held in place by a small ring on the outside of the nipple, effectively repositioning it. The piercing and ring remain in place for 8 weeks. During this period, the nipple and milk ducts adjust to the new position and almost always stay that way. The ducts are gradually stretched.

It is a minimal procedure with maximum results. Sensation is preserved, and the ability to breastfeed in the future remains intact.

What does an inverted nipple correction cost?

Consultation	Free
Inverted nipple correction (one side)	€ 880
Inverted nipple correction (both sides)	€ 1155

These prices are all-inclusive: consultation, follow-up check, and, if necessary, additional aftercare. A complete overview of the prices for all our treatments can be found on our price list.

How does the procedure work?

The procedure consists of a short treatment lasting 20 to 30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia. The anesthetic injections may sting briefly, but after that, you won’t feel anything during the procedure itself.

Are there any risks associated with the procedure?

Yes, as with any procedure, there are risks. The result may be disappointing, or an infection could occur, which may require the piercing to be removed. There is also a small risk of tissue necrosis after piercing through the milk ducts (although this is rarely necessary, as explained above). Fortunately, the likelihood of complications is very low.

Are there other ways to treat an inverted nipple?

There are several devices on the market designed to pull nipples outward, such as niplettes. However, the results are usually disappointing, as the effect is temporary and the nipple often retracts again. These tools may offer a solution specifically for breastfeeding with inverted nipples.

The benefits of treatment at V-Klinieken at a glance:

• Suitable for most inverted nipples
• Short procedure under local anesthesia
• Sensation and ability to breastfeed can usually be preserved
• Minimal risks
• We are the only clinic in the Netherlands using this method
• Due to our experience and treatment technique, significantly more affordable than other clinics

Recovery after inverted nipple correction

During the 8 weeks that the piercing and ring need to stay in place, you can continue almost all daily activities (work, sports, etc.) as usual; limitations are minimal. The area may be sensitive for a few days, but this is usually manageable.

Aftercare and advice following inverted nipple correction:

• Clean the wound area once or twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free, pH-neutral soap (e.g. Sebamed) or disinfectant soap for six weeks, until fully healed. This can be done while showering.
• While cleaning, gently rotate the bar of the piercing.
• Always ensure no soap residue remains in the wounds, as it may cause irritation. Any scabs or debris can be gently removed in the shower using a clean cotton swab.
• Pat the wound area dry after washing with a clean towel or tissue. Keep the piercing as dry as possible.
• Do not apply ointments, petroleum jelly, or similar products to the wound.
• Do not use wound disinfectants like Sterilon or Betadine on the wound.
• Do not cover the piercing with plasters or bandages.
• Avoid contact with swimming water (chlorinated pools, hot tubs, or natural water) for at least 4 weeks during the healing process. The use of steam baths is also strongly discouraged during healing.
• We advise against sports or any heavy physical activity during the first two weeks after the procedure.
• To prevent infection, always wash your hands with disinfectant soap before caring for the wound. Never touch the piercing without washing your hands first.