Nipple pain and hypersensitivity 4 years post-periareolar lift with 375cc gel implants. (photos)

Question

Four years ago, I had a periareolar lift with 375 cc gel implants done. Post-op had a staph infection in my left nipple along the incision which left scarring. Now, my boyfriend can barely touch them without me cringing from the sharp, razor-like pain in both nipples. I am not enjoying the pain, the heaviness, the ugliness. I'm considering just having them extracted but am afraid of making matters worse on all accounts. Any chance that removing will decrease the pain?Looking for advice.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the hypersensitivity you are experiencing.  As it has been occurring for several years you may not have improvement with implant removal, though it's not possible to know for sure.  I encourage you to visit with your plastic surgeon to explore options.  There are medications available that may provide some relief.

Christopher L. Hess, MD · Answer

Hypersensitivity after beast surgery is not an uncommon situation.  If caught early on I have my patients massage the nipples for five minutes twice a day.  This over stimulates the nerves and they essentially reset to their normal function.  After four year I suspect this may not work.  However, it is worth a try.  At this point I would try a medication that is specific to nerve pain, namely Gabapentin.  If this doesn't work you may need steroid injections into the nerves or a nerve ligation.  This isn't an ideal solution as it will leave the nipples numb.  Finally, there is no guarantee that removing the implants will improve the situation.  In fact I suspect it won't help at all.  I would suggest you see a pain management specialist.

Nipple pain and hypersensitivity 4 years post-periareolar lift with 375cc gel implants. (photos)

Answers (2)