Read how piercing can help reverse inverted nipples

Congenital nipple inversion is found in around ten percent of the population. This condition occurs in both women and men. In nearly ninety percent of cases, both nipples are inverted, and about half of those affected inherit the trait. Enough with the numbers—let’s talk about whether it’s worth visiting a piercer if you’re part of that ten percent and want to reverse your nipples.

Researchers believe that inverted nipples are caused by abnormal developmental patterns of the fetal mesoderm. Others suggest it’s due to short milk ducts combined with non-elastic collagen fibers. In some cases, nipples remain inverted until puberty, in others until breastfeeding, and in some people, they stay inverted permanently. Inverted nipples can make breastfeeding difficult or impossible, increase the risk of infections, and most importantly, impact self-esteem and body confidence. That’s why different methods have been developed to help protrude the nipples and support those who seek that change. Of course, this doesn’t apply to everyone—some people don’t mind their inverted nipples at all and even say they like them.

Not all inverted nipples can be pierced.

Before we go any deeper into the topic, it’s important to note that a sudden nipple inversion can be a sign of breast cancer or another serious condition. In such cases, I strongly recommend contacting a gynecologist and/or oncologist immediately.

Some of you, after reading the headline and first few lines, may be wondering—what exactly are inverted nipples, and what do they actually look like? Let me explain. The nipple consists of the areola, the darker skin around the nipple, and the nipple itself, which usually protrudes. In a small percentage of the population, the nipple is pulled inward. Sometimes it forms a slight indentation; other times it appears more flat. For some, only part of the nipple is inverted. Many people find their nipples can change shape throughout the day—from inverted to flat to protruding.

In medical literature, inverted nipples are divided into three categories. This classification, proposed by Han and Hong in 1999, is still used in surgical practice today:

– Grade I: The nipple can be easily pulled out by gently pressing around the areola and tends to hold its shape. It may alternate between being inverted and protruding.
– Grade II: The nipple can also be drawn out, but with more effort, and it often retracts again.
– Grade III: The nipple is very difficult to pull out manually and requires significant time and effort.

Techniques to Reverse Inverted Nipples

I mentioned surgeons earlier because they’re the ones who most often deal with inverted nipples. They develop methods for permanently correcting the nipple shape. Some techniques involve cutting the milk ducts. Others use threads inserted into the nipple to help keep it protruded. Interestingly, publications from 2001 and 2003 already mentioned nipple piercing as a method of correction. However, doctors recommended removing the jewelry after three months. In those cases, the effect usually lasted only about a year. These methods are generally effective for people with grade I or II inversion.

There are also non-surgical options. They work mainly for less advanced cases and tend to produce short-term results. One such method is the Hoffman technique, which involves massaging the nipple to stimulate it to protrude. It’s time-consuming and often not very effective. Other tools, such as suction cups, pumps, or even syringes, can be used to pull the nipple outward. This can be uncomfortable, but sometimes it works. Unfortunately, once the treatment ends, the nipple may retract again.

The most effective—and for many, also the most aesthetically pleasing—solution is piercing. When done using the right technique and appropriate jewelry, it can permanently bring the nipple outward. An experienced piercer can even help with grade III nipples, which are difficult to correct using other methods.

I’ve performed many of these piercings and have had numerous satisfied clients. Based on their feedback, the results are long-lasting. I also know people who removed their jewelry years later and still had protruding nipples. The final outcome depends on the degree of inversion, how long the jewelry was worn, and the quality of the piercing itself.

When it comes to piercing inverted nipples, proper technique is key. The process differs from a standard nipple piercing. Preparation may take longer, as the piercer should first stimulate the nipple to protrude before performing the piercing. The best results are usually achieved by piercers who use the so-called freehand method—piercing without clamps or tools. This allows them to better feel the placement and angle the needle correctly. That’s why it’s essential to choose an experienced piercer who understands how to approach inverted nipples.

Get your inverted nipples pierced by PierceBeti

Piercing such a sensitive area of the body always comes with strong emotions. At Sztorm, you can get this piercing done by me – PierceBeti. It’s an intense experience that, for most of the people I pierce, brings incredible satisfaction. Often, it’s about overcoming fear, crossing a mental boundary that once felt impossible. I feel that even more deeply when piercing inverted nipples. Sometimes, the emotions and joy of the person I’m piercing affect me so strongly that I tear up. I absolutely love being there for my clients in this transformation. I understand what they feel—because I have many piercings myself. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about nipple piercings and have had many conversations with clients on this topic. For me, this piercing is more than just placing jewelry in the body—it’s something deeper. If you’re still unsure, I hope I’ve helped you make your decision.

You can book your appointment by messaging me at PierceBeti or via Booksy.

Sources:
Inverted Nipple; Rao D. N., Winters R.; Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Correction of inverted nipple using piercing; Tal MG.; Plast Reconstr Surg.; 2003 A contemporary correction of inverted nipples; Scholten E.; Plast Reconstr Surg. 2001 The inverted nipple: its grading and surgical correction; Han S, Hong YG.; Plast Reconstr Surg. 1999