Introduction
Inverted nipples are a common concern for many individuals, especially women. This condition can not only affect one's physical appearance but also have an impact on self - confidence and certain functions such as breastfeeding. In New York City, there are several regular public hospitals where patients can seek professional help for inverted nipple correction. In this article, we will introduce some renowned plastic surgeons and relevant information regarding inverted nipple correction in New York City, which can serve as a useful reference for those in need.
What are Inverted Nipples?
An inverted nipple occurs when the nipple is pulled inward toward the breast tissue instead of pointing outwards. This is often a congenital problem that becomes more evident when breasts develop at puberty. However, it can also occur later in life due to various factors such as breast injury, breastfeeding, or underlying medical conditions like mastitis, duct ectasia, or breast cancer.
There are three grades of inverted nipples:
- Grade I: These are mildly inverted nipples that can be everted by applying pressure around the areola. Women with grade I inverted nipples usually do not have problems breastfeeding.
- Grade II: Nipples are moderately inverted. It is possible but difficult to make them protrude by applying pressure around the areola. Breastfeeding may be challenging for these women.
- Grade III: This is the most severe form of inverted nipples. Women cannot protrude their nipples by applying pressure to their areola. Grade III inverted nipples require corrective surgery, and women will usually not be able to breastfeed.
Inventory of Plastic Surgeons for Inverted Nipple Correction in New York City
Dr. Nina Naidu
Dr. Nina S. Naidu is a female plastic surgeon in New York City who specializes in aesthetic surgery of the breast. She and her staff are dedicated to providing women in NYC with the highest quality of care possible. Dr. Naidu views breast surgery as a creative endeavor that improves a woman’s physical beauty and enhances her self - confidence.
Procedure
Inverted nipple correction is an outpatient procedure that takes 30 - 45 minutes. It is performed in the operating room using light sedation. Dr. Naidu will make tiny incisions on your areola to release the tissue pulling your nipple inward. Once the tissue is released, your nipples will naturally protrude outward, and fine sutures are used to hold your nipples in their new position.
Candidate Requirements
You are an ideal candidate for inverted nipple correction if you feel self - conscious about your inverted nipples and do not intend to breastfeed in the future. You must also be in good health and a non - smoker. It is important to have realistic expectations about the degree of eversion which can be achieved.
Consultation Process
- First Consultation: Dr. Naidu will get to know you and your goals for the surgery. You need to tell her about your medical history, use of medications, nicotine, alcohol or supplements, and any previous surgeries. She will conduct a physical examination of your nipples, areola, and the soft tissue of your breasts and take pre - operative photographs.
- Second Consultation: If you decide to proceed with the surgery, Dr. Naidu will review your photographs, answer additional questions, and outline your surgical plan in greater detail. She will also advise you on pre - operative preparations such as discontinuing certain medications and not smoking for six weeks before or after surgery.
Recovery and Complications
Most patients have moderate soreness of the nipples following the inverted nipple correction. Dr. Naidu will give you a prescription for pain management and instructions about how to take care of your incisions. There is generally no significant bruising or swelling, and many patients return to work the following day. Complications may include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetrical nipples, recurrence of the inverted nipples, loss of nipple sensitivity, and inability to breastfeed.
Cost
Inverted nipple correction is generally considered to be cosmetic surgery and is not covered by insurance. You will receive an exact fee quote following your first consultation with Dr. Naidu.
Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker is well - known for his expertise in inverted nipple correction in New York City. He has a unique artistic and technical approach to the procedure.
Procedure
In most cases, a minimally invasive technique is used, placing a tiny incision at the base of the nipple. Through this incision, a microsurgical or very fine instrument is used to release the tethering fibers and foreshortened duct that hold the nipple in its inverted position. A suture is placed beneath the nipple to maintain its position. The procedure takes approximately one hour.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates include all forms of nipple inversion (grade I - nipples come out occasionally without manipulation, grade II - nipples require manipulation to evert them, grade III - nipples do not come out at all), as well as those with symmetric, asymmetric, or unilateral nipple inversion.
Recovery
Following the correction, recovery is rapid. Patients may return to work the following day, and light cardio exercise may be resumed three days after the procedure. The main restriction is from compression for ten days to two weeks after the procedure, during which time patients should not wear a bra.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have given positive feedback about Dr. Kolker. For example, one patient said that Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told her was not possible. He made the impossible, possible and corrected her asymmetrical breasts, making her very happy.
Dr. Darren Smith
Dr. Darren Smith treats patients in their 20s to 60s, of varying ethnicities, and from all walks of life. His practice provides high - level service and care in a friendly, comfortable environment with advanced safety protocols, personalized aftercare, and outstanding results.
Procedure
This is a simple procedure that takes less than an hour and can be performed with the patient under local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the lower nipple, the nipple is lifted up, and the tethering tissue is released. Vertical and horizontal dissolvable sutures are used to support nipple projection, and a protective device may be placed over the nipple for a few days after surgery.
Ideal Candidates
- Grade I: Mildly inverted nipples that come out occasionally without manipulation.
- Grade II: Moderately inverted nipples that require applying pressure around the areola to evert them.
- Grade III: Severely inverted nipples that do not come out at all, even when applying pressure to the areola.
Breastfeeding Consideration
Dr. Smith will design the procedure in such a way as to maximize the patient's potential for future breastfeeding. Women with more mild inverted nipple cases will have a greater chance of being able to breastfeed after the surgery, while for moderate to severe nipple inversion, cutting or dividing the milk ducts may be necessary, which could impact the ability to breastfeed.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
The procedure is an outpatient one performed at Darren M. Smith, MD’s plastic surgery center in NYC. It takes roughly 30 minutes and is usually performed using local anesthesia or light sedation. Patients will return home the same day following the surgery, and surgical dressings should be left on for 48 hours.
Dr. Mark H. Schwartz
Dr. Mark H. Schwartz is a New York City board - certified plastic surgeon who offers inverted nipple correction. Inverted or flat nipples are more common than one might think, and Dr. Schwartz can help patients restore a normal appearance to their nipples and improve self - confidence.
Procedure
Inverted nipple correction is a relatively short operation that may be performed with either local anesthesia or sedation in Dr. Schwartz’s office. He makes a small incision near the base of the nipple on the areola, lifts the nipple and areolar tissue, and stitches it into its new protruding position.
Candidate Selection
The procedure is designed for women who are born with inverted or slit - like nipples or whose nipples become inverted later in life. Dr. Schwartz consults with every patient on a personal basis, examines the nipples to determine the degree of inversion, inquires about the medical history and general health, and explains the possible treatment options.
Recovery
After surgery, the nipples may be temporarily swollen and/or bruised, and there may be a slight change in sensation or a feeling of numbness. These side effects resolve over a few days, and the nipples will look and feel normal. Dr. Schwartz provides comprehensive instructions for recovery.
Comparisons of these Surgeons
| Surgeon | Procedure Time | Anesthesia | Recovery Time | Effect on Breastfeeding | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Nina Naidu | 30 - 45 minutes | Light sedation | Many patients return to work the next day | May affect in severe cases | Specializes in aesthetic breast surgery, personalized care |
| Dr. Adam Kolker | Approximately 1 hour | Local anesthesia | Return to work next day, light cardio in 3 days | Minimally invasive to preserve function | Unique artistic and technical approach |
| Dr. Darren Smith | Less than 1 hour | Local anesthesia or light sedation | Return home same day, normal activities soon | Maximize potential for breastfeeding | High - level service and personalized aftercare |
| Dr. Mark H. Schwartz | Relatively short | Local anesthesia or sedation | Side effects resolve in a few days | Tries to preserve milk ducts | Personalized consultation |
Pre - operative and Post - operative Precautions
Pre - operative Precautions
- Be honest with your doctor about your medical history, including any previous surgeries, medications you are taking, and any underlying health conditions.
- If you are a smoker, stop smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery as smoking can affect the healing process.
- Follow your doctor's advice on discontinuing certain medications, such as blood - thinners, which may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
Post - operative Precautions
- Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor to manage any discomfort.
- Keep the surgical area clean and follow the instructions on how to care for the incisions to prevent infection.
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a period of time as recommended by your doctor to allow proper healing.
- Attend all follow - up appointments so that your doctor can monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
Conclusion
Inverted nipple correction is a surgical procedure that can effectively address the concerns associated with inverted nipples, improving both the appearance and self - confidence of patients. In New York City, there are several experienced plastic surgeons such as Dr. Nina Naidu, Dr. Adam Kolker, Dr. Darren Smith, and Dr. Mark H. Schwartz who offer high - quality services for this procedure. Each surgeon has their own unique approach, and patients should choose the one that best suits their needs after a thorough consultation.
If you are considering inverted nipple correction, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact one of these surgeons to schedule a consultation and learn more about the procedure, the potential outcomes, and the associated risks. By being well - informed and working with a professional, you can make the best decision for your health and well - being.
