After 4 years, my nipples are constantly erect from a breast aug. They always hurt. Can this be fixed?

Question

Ever since my surgery, my nipples have been in pain. At first I thought it was temporary. I have to wear lined bras to hide how erect they are. Two years after the surgery, I saw my doctor and asked if he would remove some tissue behind the areola so the nipples could relax. He refused saying “but that would change the way they look. Why mess up a good thing?” Now, they still hurt as much as they did then. I think they’ve gotten bigger from constant irritation.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,I'm sorry to hear about the discomfort you are experiencing. At two years post op this ongoing sensation is certainly unusual. I recommend that you see another board certified plastic surgeon in person for a second opinion regarding methods to reduce sensation or nipple size.All the best

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

Due to the size of the implant the nerves could be creating a reflex with your nipples. Unfortunately, this could not be treated without decreasing the size of your implants, or removing them and even that would not be a guaranteed solution to your problems.

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  A nipple reduction is often performed under a local anesthetic to reduce nipple projection and size.  My advice is to seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.  Best of luck.

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

After two years you have certainly given it enough time… As has been stated, one thing is a nipple reduction to decrease the height or projection that the nipple sticks out. That can be done under local anesthetic in the office and that may help. Another option is to try to reduce the nerve endings going to the nipple  and a small incision can be made at the edge of the Areola  and an instrument passed under the nipple to try to sever some of those nerve endings. But that will be a real trial and error process. It’s possible you could lose more sensation then you wanted as well.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Beauty enthusiast119,it is hard to tell without an examination. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

After 4 years, my nipples are constantly erect from a breast aug. They always hurt. Can this be fixed?

Answers (5)