Inverted or Oversized Nipples Symptoms & Causes

Book Free Consultation

Treatments

Conditions

★★★★★
Over 59,645 patients agree
The Harley Street Skin Clinic

The symptoms

Inverted Nipples

Nipples are turned inward rather than outward.
No protruding nipples even if cold or stimulation.
May be more or less sensitive than usual.
Skin near the nipple may appear wrinkled or pulled inward.
Can be more difficult to keep clean, which can cause irritation or infection.

Oversized Nipples

Nipples look larger or longer than the rest of the breast.
May be uncomfortable as it can irritate clothing.
Can cause self-consciousness about appearance.
One nipple may be larger than the other.

When to see a doctor?

When to be concerned?

Inverted nipples are generally harmless, most especially if it has been like that since birth. The majority of people who have inverted nipples never need treatment.

But if the shape of your nipple suddenly changes or changes over an especially short amount of time, it’s wise to consult a doctor. Changes that come on suddenly, or that are painful, swollen or discharging could signal an underlying problem.

For oversized nipples, you should seek medical advice if they:

Become swollen, painful or ooze discharge.
Change in size rapidly or are associated with other symptoms, such as a lump and nipple soreness.
Make a difference in your confidence or daily life.

When opting for plastic surgery for treating more severe cases, always choose a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine what’s happening and recommend solutions.

Advised treatments

Nipple-reconstruction

Body Treatment

Nipple-reduction

Body Treatment

The causes

What are the causes of inverted and oversized nipples?

Flat or inverted nipples can occur due to:

Fetal Development: Small nipple base or underdevelopment of milk glands.
Injuries: Scarring from surgery or breastfeeding.
Infections: Bacterial problems or blocked milk ducts.

Oversized or puffy nipples can result from:

Hormonal Imbalances: This can include puberty, menopause, pregnancy and other medical condition that alter hormone levels.
Weight Gain: Fat causes oestrogen, changing your nipples.

The risk factors

Who is at risk for inverted and oversized nipples?

Inverted nipples:

Have hormonal changes near menopause.
Pregnant and breastfeeding.
Patients with lumps because of breast cancer.

Oversized nipples:

Men taking steroids and other medications that can influence hormones.
Long-term stress can interfere with hormone levels.
Genetics and family history contributes to oversized nipples.

The complications

What will happen if it is left untreated?

Inverted nipples
- Make breastfeeding challenging or may not be able to breastfeed at all.
- It can trap milk or bacteria, which may increase the risk of infections.
- May affect confidence and self-esteem.
- It could suggest an underlying condition, such as an infection or, on rare occasions, breast cancer.

Oversized nipples
- It can lead to physical discomforts like irritation or tenderness
- Individuals might be embarrassed about their nipple size.
- Can cause issues with breastfeeding.
- Enlarged nipples, also called nipple hypertrophy can also indicate hormonal imbalances or other health conditions that might require treatment.

The prevention

Does weight affect nipple size?

Maintaining a healthy weight also helps prevent larger nipples caused by excess fat in the chest. Staying fit with a healthy diet can also help maintain adequate hormone levels and lower the risk of developing issues associated with them.

Advice for remaining in a healthy weight range

Focus on healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Combine this with routine physical exercises (like walking, jogging, or strength training) to keep your body healthy while avoiding weight-related nipple shifts.

Why is hormonal balance important for nipple health?

Yes, certain medications, such as steroids or hormones, can also affect the appearance of the nipples. Understanding possible side effects can pave the way for safer decisions.

Avoid medication-related issues

Always follow your doctor’s instructions about any medicine. Talk about alternatives to your medication if that medication may cause nipple or hormone-related problems. Never use steroids or other substances without a doctor’s advice.

Do some medications lead to problems with your nipples?

Yes, certain medications, such as steroids or hormones, can also affect the appearance of the nipples. Understanding possible side effects can pave the way for safer decisions.

Avoid medication-related issues

Why is correct breast care necessary to avoid problems?

Infections, which can lead to changes such as inverted or enlarged nipples, can often be prevented with good hygiene and care. Mild soaps and loose clothing can make a difference.

Tips to improve breast care

Conduct regular self-checks to detect changes early. Wear moisturizer, and if you are breast-feeding, practice proper baby latches help prevent breast tissue damage or scarring. If any issue arises during latching, consider seeking help from a breastfeeding specialist.

Can stress affect the health of your nipples?

Stress, over time, disrupts hormones, and one consequence may be that your nipples change size or shape. Stress reduction may help prevent this.

Effectively avoid stress

Experiment with relaxation techniques, from deep breathing to gentle exercise to meditation. Prioritize self-care, and reach out to loved ones or professionals for support if stress becomes too high.

Does weight affect nipple size?
Why is hormonal balance important for nipple health?
Do some medications lead to problems with your nipples?
Why is correct breast care necessary to avoid problems?
Can stress affect the health of your nipples?

David Harewood

★★★★★

Excellent service as always. Highly recommended

Delcita Jackson

★★★★★

Professional service.

Kayla Mugambi

★★★★★

Very professional

Ivelina Mileva

★★★★★

Fast, professional service with excellent quality!

Sarah conners

★★★★★

Very professional and excellent care. Lovely premises.

laura ewing

★★★★★

First class service from reception to doctorsAs ever.

Ishaq Usama

★★★★★

Lovely place. Really friendly and informative. Loved it.

Nanny Pancake Daycare

★★★★★

Lovely friendly professional staff that go the extra mile

J Andre

★★★★★

Excellent care with kind, professional staff

Andy Smith

★★★★★

five star

Condition: Inverted Or Oversized Nipples