[Correction of inverted nipples by double stitching of U-shape].

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a way to correct mildly and moderately inverted nipple.

METHODS

From May 2004 to January 2007, 16 patients (aged 18-38 years) with original bilateral inverted nipple were corrected with the double stitching of U-shape. Sixteen cases included 11 mildly inverted nipples and 5 moderately inverted nipples. Six of them received massage and vacuum aspiration, and the results were not satisfactory. After the pulling out inverted nipples, four microincisions about 0.1 cm on the border of areola and the basilar part of nipple were designed in each horizontal and perpendicular directions, then double stitching was performed to increase the supporting and sustaining tissue under the nipple and close the way nipple invert.

RESULTS

Most cases exhibited excellent aesthetic projection and incision healed by first intention. Followup examinations were performed at 6 months to 2 years and revealed no evidence of recurring inversion, nipple tilting or lactation disturbance. No surgical complications such as infection, nipple and areola of breast necrosis, permanent numbness. The scars in the local site were limited and not conspicuous.

CONCLUSION

Double stitching of U-shape is easy and simple with few complications. It is an ideal method to correct mild and moderate inverted nipple.