Patient's question:
I am 22 years old this year. My breasts have grown many small, hard lumps that can be felt with my hands. Before my period, they sometimes feel a bit painful, and touching my breasts also causes pain. Recently, I've noticed that my breasts have also become larger. Is there something wrong? I'm very worried. I've experienced pain since puberty, and my nipples are also inverted and very small. Kind people, please help me.Doctor's answer:
Nipple inversion needs to be corrected. Specific methods include manual traction and mechanical traction.Manual traction: Gently pull the nipple outwards from the skin surface using the thumb and index finger, holding it horizontally or vertically. Apply continuous or intermittent traction to the nipple for about 30 minutes per session, alternating between both nipples. Perform this 3–5 times daily.
Mechanical traction: Use a manual or electric breast pump to create negative pressure and draw the nipple out. Similar to manual traction, apply continuous or intermittent suction for 30 minutes per session, alternating between both nipples. Perform this 3–5 times daily.
Both correction methods can yield good results after about two months.
For irreparable nipple inversion, also known as severe nipple inversion, surgical correction is the only option. The surgery involves completely releasing the fibrous tissue pulling the nipple inward, filling the surrounding area with tissue to enhance support, and repositioning the nipple to a protruding shape. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with various techniques available based on individual needs. The surgery is conducted within the areola, leaving minimal scarring. Under normal circumstances, it does not damage the sensory nerves of the nipple, so post-surgery, normal sensation is preserved.
The surgery generally does not disrupt milk ducts, so breastfeeding is not impaired.