Patient's question:
Nipple retraction, how to do the traction?Doctor's answer:
Hello: Nipple retraction (nipple inversion) is primarily congenital, but it can also be caused by trauma, surgery, breast tumors, or fibrosis after breast inflammation. Congenital nipple retraction is due to the underdevelopment of smooth muscle in the nipple and areola. These muscle fibers pull inward, and combined with a lack of supportive tissue beneath the nipple, this forms nipple retraction. It generally occurs bilaterally but can also affect one side. Mild nipple retraction is when the retracted nipple can be easily pushed or pulled out slightly. Congenital nipple retraction is more common in women without a history of breastfeeding. Secondary nipple retraction is often associated with breast diseases, such as breast cancer, and is usually unilateral. For acquired nipple retraction (nipple inversion), it should never be taken lightly. You should visit a specialized hospital for examination and related tests, such as breast ultrasound and mammography, to rule out the possibility of breast cancer. There is another situation: if the skin around the nipple frequently develops eczema or itching that does not heal, Paget's disease should be considered. This is a special type of breast cancer. The degree of nipple retraction (nipple inversion) varies. In mild cases, only the nipple retracts, while in severe cases, the nipple may be deeply inverted or even flipped. Clinically, nipple retraction can be classified into three types:Type I: Partial nipple retraction, with the nipple neck still present. The retracted nipple can be easily pushed out by hand, and its size returns to normal after being pushed out.
Type II: The entire nipple is retracted into the areola, but it can be pushed out by hand. The nipple is smaller than normal and usually lacks a nipple neck.
Type III: The nipple is completely buried beneath the areola and cannot be pushed out.
Nipple retraction (nipple inversion) not only affects the aesthetic appearance of the breast but also hinders breastfeeding function. The retracted area is difficult to clean, making it prone to accumulating dirt and causing local infections. Since breast ducts communicate with the retracted area, inflammation can spread inward, leading to breast inflammation. Depending on the situation, the following methods can be used:
1. Manual traction: During the adolescent period, which is a critical time for breast development, it is also important for correcting nipple retraction. Regularly pulling the nipple can make the breasts more prominent, increase the supportive strength of the surrounding skin, and help "shape" the nipples. Do this several times a day. Over time, the nipple will naturally protrude outward. If it cannot be pulled out, you can first gently push the skin near the nipple outward.
2. Suction therapy: After pregnancy, use a breast pump to suction the nipple several times a day, utilizing its negative pressure to promote nipple protrusion.
3. Nipple corrector: This is a device used to treat flat or inverted nipples.