Table of contents

• What are Inverted Nipples?
• Causes of Inverted Nipples
• Best Areola Surgery Clinics in Korea
• Treatment Options in Korea
• Aftercare and Recovery
• Other Popular Methods of Treating Inverted Nipples in Korea
• The Prevalence and Causes of Inverted Nipples
• Inverted Nipples and Breastfeeding
• Surgical Options for Inverted Nipple Correction
• Post-Treatment Care

Inverted nipples are a naturally occurring physical attribute found in roughly 10-20% of women and a smaller percentage of men around the globe. If this condition causes discomfort or a lack of confidence, there are several methods that can be utilized to correct it. In South Korea, just like everywhere else, numerous medical as well as non-medical interventions are available.

What are Inverted Nipples?

Inverted nipples are those that instead of pointing outward, are retracted into the breast. In some cases, they can be drawn out through cold or stimulation, but in others, they remain inverted regardless of exterior stimuli. This is often purely a cosmetic issue, but in some cases, it can cause difficulties with breastfeeding.

Causes of Inverted Nipples

Inverted nipples can be a natural occurrence developed at birth or during puberty. It is relatively common, affecting approximately 10 to 20 percent of women, and a smaller percentage of men around the world, including South Korea.

Here are several reasons why nipple inversion might occur:

• Tight breast duct tissue pulling the nipple inward
• Nipple trauma
• Significant changes in the breast size
• Ageing as the skin loses elasticity
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding where significant stretching or hormonal changes are involved
• Certain medical conditions like breast infections, mastitis, or breast cancer

In most cases, inverted nipples are simply a part of a person's body structure and pose no health risks. However, if nipple inversion occurs suddenly, medical consultation should be sought as it could be an indication of an underlying condition like breast cancer.

Best Areola Surgery Clinics in Korea

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the bustling district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands as a beacon of advanced aesthetic enhancements under the expert leadership of Dr. Director Lee Hyeong-Min. Known for its commitment to personalized care and cutting-edge technology, the clinic offers a wide array of cosmetic procedures designed to help individuals achieve their aesthetic goals while maintaining a natural appearance. The clinic has garnered a reputation for its expertise in breast surgeries, employing innovative methods such as hybrid breast implants that combine implants and fat grafting for a more authentic look. Through the use of 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy, Seojin Clinic provides a comprehensive and safe surgical experience, bolstering patient confidence from consultation to recovery.

In the realm of areola surgery, Seojin Clinic offers meticulous procedures aimed at adjusting the size or shape of the nipples and areolae, thereby enhancing the overall appearance of the breasts. This focus on nipple surgery is part of a broader spectrum of breast enhancements that also includes lifts, reductions, and specialized services for transgender patients. Each procedure is executed with precision, reflecting the clinic's dedication to individualized care and aesthetic excellence. By seamlessly balancing art with science, Seojin Clinic continues to empower its clients, ensuring that each achieves their desired look with the highest standards of safety and satisfaction.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, represents a beacon of excellence in cosmetic surgery. Spanning four floors, the clinic is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive range of services from initial consultations to post-operative skincare, ensuring a seamless patient journey. The clinic is staffed by eminent surgeons who are not only skilled practitioners but also respected medical researchers, contributing to scholarly journals and participating in international symposiums to stay abreast of the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery. This dedication to innovation and personalized patient care underpins their philosophy, delivering a superior level of service and patient satisfaction.

Known for their expertise in a variety of cosmetic procedures, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery emphasizes a patient-centered approach. The clinic is renowned for its specialization in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty, with director doctors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun recognized both locally and globally for their outstanding work. Their commitment to the advancement of the field is evident not only in their pioneering procedures but also in their continuous engagement with the medical community through webinars and contributions to medical literature. This commitment, coupled with a highly experienced team that participates actively in academic research, ensures that THE PLUS remains at the forefront of plastic surgery, offering exceptional results and maintaining high standards of safety and care for all patients.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery Clinic in Korea is renowned for its highly skilled and experienced medical team, specializing in various plastic surgery procedures, including areola surgery. The clinic is operated by two board-certified plastic surgeons, supported by specialists with over a decade, and in some cases two decades, of experience in the field. The team members are alumni of the prestigious Yonsei University Hospital and have held prominent positions such as the head of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital. Driven by a commitment to excellence, the staff uses their extensive expertise and aesthetic sense to offer personalized 1:1 consultations, ensuring each patient's unique needs are met with scientific precision and tailored treatment plans.

Areola surgery at DM Plastic Surgery is approached with the same meticulous care and professionalism that characterize all their procedures. The clinic is designed to provide not only technically superior surgical outcomes but also to deliver an understanding and empathetic patient experience. Members of the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors, the specialists are consistently striving to lead and innovate within the medical industry. Whether through areola reduction, areola pigmentation correction, or other aesthetic enhancements, patients at DM Plastic Surgery can expect a combination of traditional surgical artistry and cutting-edge techniques, ensuring both functional and cosmetic results align with their desired outcomes.

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

Treatment Options in Korea

In Korea, both surgical and non-surgical options are available for the correction of inverted nipples. These options include:

1. Breast Surgery: This procedure involves making a small incision around the nipple and cutting the fibers that are pulling the nipple inwards. This is normally a minimally invasive procedure.

2. Nipple Piercing: This is a less conventional option where a body piercer punctures the skin above the nipple and places a ring to keep it from inverting again.

3. Hoffman Technique: This non-surgical technique entails the use of exercises to strengthen the muscles beneath the nipples, to keep them protruding outward.

4. Suction Devices: These are non-surgical tools that use gentle suction to draw the nipple out over time.

5. Nipple Retractors: These are simple devices that utilize spring tension to keep the nipple in an extended position.

Before choosing any of these methods, it is essential to consult with a medical professional or a specialist to understand the pros and cons of each method and to identify the most suitable option for you.

Aftercare and Recovery

Whichever treatment plan you adopt, taking care of the treated area and adhering to all the instructions given by the healthcare provider is crucial. Generally, after treatment, patients are recommended to wear a special surgical bra to provide support during the recovery process.

Patients are usually able to return to their normal routines within one or two weeks following the treatment. It is important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least a few weeks post-procedure to allow the body time to heal.

Keep in mind that the end goal is not just to alter the appearance; it is also about achieving a positive body image and enhancing overall self-confidence.

Remember, whether inverted nipples should be “fixed” or not is a personal decision that should be made after understanding the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives related to the treatment. Ensure to discuss your concerns and expectations with your healthcare provider before deciding on a treatment plan.

Other Popular Methods of Treating Inverted Nipples in Korea

Inverted nipples, a condition where the nipples are pointed inwards instead of outwards, is not a medical concern in itself but can affect self-esteem and breastfeeding. In Korea, there are a variety of effective treatments that help correct this condition, some surgical and others that can be done at home.

Nipple Stretcher

The nipple stretcher, called Phillips Nipple Puller in Korea, is a non-surgical at-home therapy. It's a small device that you fix onto your nipple. The device gently pulls on the nipple multiple times a day to reverse the inversion.

Hoffman Technique

The Hoffman technique is another at-home method that involves using your thumbs to apply pressure.

For the Hoffman technique:

1. Place your thumbs at the base of the nipple.
2. Gently but firmly apply pressure and stretch the nipple.
3. Repeat daily.

Piercing

It seems counter-intuitive, but piercing has been known to help some cases of inverted nipples. The jewelry helps to keep the nipple in an outwards position, which can sometimes reverse the inversion.

It's essential to consult with a professional piercer who has experience with inverted nipples.

Surgical options

For severe cases of inverted nipples, surgery may be necessary. In Korea, the most common type of operation is nipple traction surgery.

Nipple Traction Surgery

In this treatment, the surgeon will make a small incision at the base of the nipple. This procedure allows the nipple's natural tissues to fill in the created space, causing the nipple to project outward.

Nipple Inversion Surgery

Another surgical option is nipple inversion surgery itself. The surgeon will make small incisions around the nipple to loosen it and reverse the inversion.

In Korea, these surgical procedures have high rates of success and minimal scarring. However, they may affect future breastfeeding and sensation in the nipple.

In conclusion, there are many options available to fix inverted nipples in Korea. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best option for you.

The Prevalence and Causes of Inverted Nipples

Inverted nipples, also known as retracted or invaginated nipples, are a condition where the nipple, instead of pointing outwards, is retracted into the breast. It is estimated that between 2% and 10% of the population is affected by this condition, with a significant number coming from East Asia, including South Korea. This physical condition varies in severity and could be present in one or both breasts. While it can be congenital, appearing from birth, it can also occur later in life due to factors such as severe mastitis, breast cancer, or sagging breasts.

Inverted Nipples and Breastfeeding

Conflicting opinions exist about the impact of inverted nipples on breastfeeding. Some studies suggest that it might cause difficulties in breastfeeding; however, there are numerous cases where women with this condition had no issues. Nonetheless, mothers-to-be from Korea and other parts of the world often seek treatment for inverted nipples to avoid potential complications during breastfeeding.

Surgical Options for Inverted Nipple Correction

Surgical methods for correcting inverted nipples usually give permanent results. They can range from minimal invasive surgeries to more comprehensive procedures, depending on the severity of the inversion. The three main types of surgery include the 'parachute flap' technique, 'purse string' procedure, and 'detached duct' method.

Parachute Flap Technique

This technique involves creating small incisions at the base of the nipple to allow it to project outwards. Once the desired result is achieved, sutures are placed to support the corrected nipple position. The advantage is that the milk ducts remain intact which allows for future breastfeeding. This method is common in Korean plastic surgery clinics due to its effectiveness and minimal impact on breastfeeding ability.

Purse String Procedure

The purse-string procedure is another popular method used in South Korea. It's a simple procedure where a circular incision is made around the nipple, allowing it to protrude outwards. The success rate of this procedure is high, but there is a risk of the nipple reverting if not healed properly. Many clinics in South Korea offer this treatment, and it has become a popular choice for its simplicity and efficacy.

Detached Duct Method

For severe cases of nipple inversion, the detached duct method can be used. This procedure involves detaching the milk ducts that are pulling the nipple inward. Although this gives a permanent result, it severs the milk ducts hence preventing potential breastfeeding.

In South Korea, decisions about how to correct inverted nipples will depend on several factors, including the degree of inversion, individual health status, and whether future breastfeeding is a desired option for the patient. Always consult with a skilled and knowledgeable plastic surgeon, and consider all available options before making a decision.

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩2,500,000	$1800
High Price	₩7,000,000	$5000

Exchange rate as of 2024-12-04: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Post-Treatment Care

After any surgical procedure, proper post-surgery care is crucial. Common recommendations may include using a special bra or nipple shield to protect and maintain the new nipple position.

Regardless of the method chosen, it's important to understand that each case is unique. It's recommended to consult with a specialized healthcare provider to discuss the most suitable procedure and potential risks for your individual condition.