Areola peeling with slight drainage with no smell or sensation (feeling). (Photo)

Question

I was advised that my areola would began to peel and once it peels it will return to it's normal color. I would like to know if the pictures attached now are healthy peeling or should I be concerned. Is there anything I can do to help it heal better. There is no smell although there is consistent drainage it is not excessive. I also have not regain nipple sensation in either breast is this something that will return or at this point should I give up on regaining feeling?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The areola can suffer when being transferred during a breast reduction. Sometimes the epidermis will shed leaving a temporary color issue. If traumatized too much some or all of the areola can be lost. Follow up carefully with your surgeon.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It looks like some of the superficial skin is peeling and as you doctor says should return to close to normal over time. There does not appear to be anything concerning with the way it looks in the picture but I recommend close follow-up with your plastic surgeon. #PlasticSurgery #Nipple #Healing #Recovery #BreastReduction

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photographs and questions.  Unfortunately it appears that you have suffered a partial loss of your left nipple.  You are taking good care of your incisions, as I do not see anything that resembles an infection or wound opening taking place.  Both your nipple appearance, and sensation, will take several months to finally resolve, but it is unlikely that your left nipple will match your right nipple in appearance or sensation. It is possible that you will have some sensation return to your nipple, but only time will tell, and that may be six months or more.

Norman M. Rowe, MD · Answer

I would ask your doctor and trust what he says. He should know best. It also depends how far along you are as well. Usually the color does come back.

W. Bryant Walker, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear that you have had the unfortunate complication of partial nipple/areola loss following breast reduction.  This is an uncommon but known potential complication.  From your photos, it does not appear to be infected (although I would suggest close follow up with your plastic surgeon).  Sensation may or may not return.  Only time will tell, and this can take many months to know the answer to this question.  Keep close follow up with your plastic surgeon and try to have as much patience as possible.  For more information on breast reduction, please visit the link below.

Thomas Guillot, MD (retired) · Answer

You appear to be having superficial epidermolysis of the nipple areolar complex. That is, the outer layers are peeling off superficially. This can be treated with Silvadene and observed. Please show this to show this your plastic surgeon and follow his instructions.

Areola peeling with slight drainage with no smell or sensation (feeling). (Photo)

Answers (6)

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