Patient's question:
My two nipples are inverted. One can be pushed out a little with my hand, while the other needs something to be suctioned out. The suctioned nipple has small bumps like cauliflower. I don't know how to make it better.Doctor's answer:
Hello: You can try the following methods: Nipple inversion refers to the nipple being buried within the breast. Although the breasts of young women are developed, some may have nipples that never protrude and remain hidden inside, causing them distress. They may be afraid of others seeing their breasts without nipples when taking a bath in public bathrooms and thus avoid bathing. If we take timely corrective measures, the majority of inverted nipples can be restored, and the aesthetic appearance of the breasts can be restored. Nipple inversion means the entire nipple is hidden within the breast. The nipple may be level with the breast or even lower than the skin surface of the areola, but the nipple still faces forward or has a slight tilt. A common cause of nipple inversion during puberty is during breast development. Premature use of bras is one reason. Some young women, fearing their breasts will grow too large, wear excessively tight bras or tightly bind them with cloth strips, which affects breast development and compresses the nipples, preventing them from developing normally. Additionally, inflammation or injury to the breast during development, followed by scar tissue contraction after healing, can also cause nipple inversion. Nipple inversion not only affects a woman's silhouette but more importantly, it affects breastfeeding. If inversion is severe, it can lead to mastitis due to the accumulation of dirt or bacteria. Therefore, nipple inversion must be corrected promptly. Common methods include: (1) Choosing a bra that fits properly: Avoid and correct the of binding the chest. A small and tight bra can compress the chest and affect breathing. Since women primarily use thoracic breathing, a tight bra is like tightening a rope around the chest, restricting breathing movement and preventing further worsening of nipple inversion. (2) Traction method: When nipple inversion is noticed, gently pull the inverted nipple outward with fingers every morning and evening. Simultaneously, gently massage the nipple with the thumb or index finger for 5-10 minutes each time. (3) Compression method: Use a smaller bra or a 10-centimeter-wide cloth strip with a hole the size of the nipple at the corresponding position. After wearing the bra or cloth strip, the nipple is pushed outward. Persistence over time will allow the inverted nipple to protrude. Alternatively, a walnut shell or a small ceramic wine cup can be placed on the nipple and covered with a bra, compressing it for a period to make the nipple protrude. (4) Negative pressure method: Use a syringe's needle barrel or the thick end of a glass eye dropper bottle on the nipple. Connect a rubber tube to the thin end of the bottle and then to a large syringe. Suck the air to create negative pressure, which deepens the pressure around the nipple, making it protrude. After applying the bottle, combine traction and massage.