Correction of recurrent nipple inversion with cartilage graft

Of the many techniques advocated to correct nipples, all demonstrate a failure rate with a recurrence of the inversion. We report a technique to correct the recurrent nipple inversion in a simple and permanent fashion. This technique consists of releasing all scar tissue and any lactiferous ducts deep to the nipple and inserting a cartilage graft (rib or auricular) under the nipple. This cartilage graft serves to fill in any soft tissue defect and prevent recurrent contraction and nipple inversion. Although generally used for correction of recurrent nipple inversion, we have also used this technique successfully as an initial modality in patients with inverted nipples. We have found this technique to be simple, nondeforming, cosmetically acceptable, and permanent in the treatment of both inverted and recurrent inverted nipples.