6 mo post op from chest masculinization double mastectomy w/ free nipple grafts. Normal nerve regeneration or infection?

Question

A few days ago, I started experiencing a burning sensation undernegth my left nipple and the skin surrounding the nipple on the right side of the pec is sore to the touch and feels like a sunburn. My right nipple also experiencing the burning sensation but the skin feels normal. Is this just the nerves regenerating or an infection as someone has suggested?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon to experience numbness, tingling, #burning, “crawling”, or other peculiar #sensations around the surgical area following any breast procedure, FTM #Top Surgery. This is a result of the healing of tiny fibers which are trapped in the incision site and these #symptoms will disappear. If these sensations cause pain, repeated, local self #massage per your surgeon's permission may help.  You must have patience, but if this causes concern, speak to or schedule a visit with your surgeon.

Steve Merten, FRACS - Account Suspended · Answer

The photos do not look like there are signs of infection. Give it a few weeks and if it persists, discuss with your surgeon. Dr Steve Merten, Sydney, Australia

Michael S. Beckenstein, MD · Answer

Everything looks good! Your surgeon did a nice job! There are no signs of infection. It is too early for nerve regeneration so you might be experiencing sensation from the surrounding skin.

Anthony Deboni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You look to have gotten an excellent result. Your photos do not show any signs of infection. Obviously, this is difficult to say for certain without the physical examination. That being said, the sensations that you are describing could certainly represent reinnervation. If there is any question, a visit to your plastic surgeon should set your mind at ease. Best regards

Douglas M. Senderoff, MD, FACS · Answer

You seem to be healing well.  It doesn't look like any type of abnormal healing or infection but this is best determined by your surgeon.  Be sure to see him/her for a follow up with any questions or concerns.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

Regeneration of the nerves to the nipple following mastectomy is an unusual, yet not unheard of occurrence. This may continue for several months and then fade away. You will still have some areas of numbness of the nipples. If the sensation is too uncomfortable, you can ask your plastic surgeon to discuss numbing medicines to be applied to the skin.I hope that this helps you.

Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your photographs it does not appear as though the nipples are infected.  However, if you have any concerns you should see your plastic surgeon.  The burning sensation might be an indication that the nerves are regenerating.

6 mo post op from chest masculinization double mastectomy w/ free nipple grafts. Normal nerve regeneration or infection?

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