Black line around side of right nipple. Not sure what it is? (photo)

Question

Hello. I've had my implants for a year and a half now and I've had this line on the side of my right nipple for about 6 months I had it checked out once before from my plastic surgeon and he said not to worry but now it's hurting so I made another appointment to be seen. Can anyone tell me what it is? Thank you.

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

This looks like a line of pigmentation.  Seems rather straight and uniform for a vein.  Push on it and if it temporarily goes away it is more likely to be a vein.  If it is pigmentation bleaching agents like Hydroquinone may be helpful.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell from the photo but this looks like a dilated vein. But the pictures are hard to see. Your best bet it to let your surgeon examine you in proper lighting. If it is a vein it is of no consequence.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You need to be examined by your plastic surgeon for a correct diagnosis.  However the areola looks like hyperpigmentation from your photograph.  Hyperpigmentation is common following periareolar mastopexy.

Black line around side of right nipple. Not sure what it is? (photo)

Answers (3)