How to deal with nipple retraction

Patient's question:

Main symptoms: Uneven breast development, nipple retraction Onset time: After breast development Laboratory test results: Not checked

Doctor's answer:

Hello, nipple retraction is mainly congenital, but it can also be caused by trauma, surgery, breast tumors, or fibrosis after breast inflammation. The cause of congenital nipple retraction is primarily the underdevelopment of smooth muscle in the nipple and areola. These muscle fibers pull inward, and combined with a lack of supporting tissue beneath the nipple, this forms nipple retraction. Retraction usually occurs bilaterally but can also affect one side. Mild nipple retraction, also known as reversible nipple retraction, occurs when the retracted nipple can be restored with slight squeezing or pulling. This type of retraction can be corrected through non-surgical conservative treatments, with the best timing being before marriage or in the early stages of pregnancy. Specific methods include manual traction and mechanical traction.
Irreversible nipple retraction, or moderate to severe retraction, can only be corrected through surgical intervention. The surgery involves completely releasing the retracted muscle fibers and filling the area beneath the nipple with surrounding tissue to enhance support, lifting the nipple, and reshaping it. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with various techniques available that can be chosen based on individual circumstances. The surgery is conducted within the areola, resulting in minimal scarring. Under normal conditions, it does not damage the sensory nerves of the nipple, so post-surgery, the nipple's normal sensation is not affected. The surgery generally does not damage breast ducts, so it will not cause breastfeeding difficulties.