Abstract
Background
Nipple inversion, which is defined as a nipple located on a plane deeper than the areola, presents both functional and cosmetic problems. Surgical repair of severe cases involves suture or flap techniques. In the present study, an alternative repair technique using two cross dermal areolar flaps to correct challenging inverted nipples is presented. Releasing the inverted nipple is performed by severing the underlying tight fibrous tissue bands and canaliculi.
Methods
This is a retrospective case series. Fifteen patients who had been operated between January 2010 and January 2016 were included in the study. Seven of these had bilateral inverted nipples. Patient age at operation ranged from 26 to 47 years (mean age, 32.5 years). All nipples were congenital, with no previous operations. The follow-up period ranged between 8 and 16 months (mean of 13 months).
Results
There were no complications associated with surgery, including infection, hematoma, permanent sensory disturbance, or nipple necrosis. Unilateral recurrence occurred in one patient on the 26th postoperative day. This patient was reoperated on successfully using the same method. Adequate projection was achieved in all patients. All patients were satisfied with their results.
Conclusions
The authors conclude that their procedure is a reliable, simple, safe, and effective method for correction of inverted nipples. The alignment of the scar with the junction of the nipple and the areola leads to a more aesthetic appearance with no apparent scarring. This technique can be applied to any type of inverted nipple as a primary surgical procedure.
Level of Evidence IV
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Merve Evren for medical illustrations.
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Aysal, B.K., Sever, C. A New Technique in Correction of Nipple Inversion Using Dermal C Flaps. Aesth Plast Surg 46, 101–107 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-021-02521-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-021-02521-y