[Correction of congenital nipple inversion with bilateral rhombus deepithelialized subcutaneous pedicle skin flaps and continuous traction].
OBJECTIVE
A new method for correction of nipple inversion was introduced to improve the surgical result.


METHODS
In this procedure, two opposite rhombus incisions on both sides of the inverted nipple were designed within the range of areola. The rhombus skin was deepithelialized and two subcutaneous pedicle skin flaps were created. Then the shortened lactiferous ducts and fibrous bands beneath the nipple were released. The subcutaneous pedicle skin flaps on both sides of the inverted nipple were advanced through the tunnel beneath the nipple as the supporting tissue. After the operation, continuous traction of the nipple lasted two weeks at least.


RESULTS
Since 1999, 16 patients with congenital bilateral nipple inversion have been treated. No complications were found in all the cases. Postoperative follow-up for 2-12 months showed that the appearance of the nipple was satisfactory.


CONCLUSIONS
This method is simple, safe and effective for correction of congenital nipple inversion. The incision scar is indistinct, the natural look and good function of the nipple were reserved.
Zhang
Qun
Q
Department of Plastic Surgery, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200011, China.
Yang
Chuan
C
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009558:Nipples / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome