A new surgical technique for the correction of the inverted nipple.
Many techniques have been proposed over the years to correct the inverted nipple, a condition which causes both aesthetic and functional problems. In more severe cases, other than causing infections and inflammations, breastfeeding is impossible because of the lack of nipple erection. Reconstructive surgical techniques today are oriented toward methods that allow adequate filling to maintain the nipple permanently everted. In the technique we propose, the nipple is pulled out and extruded by way of a periareolar incision after sectioning the galactophorous ducts and fibrous tissue. To guarantee a permanent eversion, a single trilobed dermoglandular flap is created, overturned, and fixed to fill the "dead space" below the nipple after the lobes have been sutured together. Finally, two transfixed U-shaped sutures are employed to keep the flap in place. From an analysis of the various techniques and results obtained, this method appears to be effective above all in resolving the aesthetic problem in a stable manner and is simpler than the techniques that employ multiple flaps.
Pompei
S
S
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
Tedesco
M
M
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009558:Nipples / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*