I am 61 years old, and I had small C cup breast implants placed 3 weeks ago. My nipples and the surrounding area are now very sore and feels a very painful, burning sensation. Are these normal post-procedure? What can I do to ease the condition?
Hypersensitivity of the nipple and areola after breast implant surgery is normal and is indicative of nerve preservation during your surgery. Once the nerve to the nipple returns to its normal functional state, nipple sensation will be returned to normal. This may take weeks to several months. More worrisome is a loss of nipple sensation.
It is not uncommon to have some hypersensitivity of the nipple and areola areas following Breast Augmentation. This may last for several weeks, until you "accommodate" to the increased sensation that may be a result of stretching of the nerves or exposure of more nerve endings due to your breasts being larger. The good news is that you did not lose any sensitivity of the nipples, but too much of a good thing may not be a blessing in this case.
I recommend a low dose of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen, etc.), which seems to lessen the hypersensitivity. If there is any fever, drainage, increased swelling of the breast, or worsening pain, you should see your doctor immediately. Otherwise, this problem should be self-limited.
Swelling and redness at times is a sign of infection, and at other times is normal increase in blood flow to the area that is healing. You need to see your plastic surgeon and be evaluated.
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