Swollen/red/warm to touch nipples starting 3 weeks post-op BA, is this normal?

Question

I had my BA on Dec 17th (270 cc, I'm 5'1, 103 pounds) , so I'm exactly 3 weeks post-op today, and a couple days ago I realised my nipples started to get swollen, red and warm to touch. Right after surgery they were numb and not swollen at all, but now they're super sensitive, sore and swollen. I know the hypersensitivity is normal but what about the swelling/redness/warmth?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

HEALING AFTER BREAST
SURGERY, AUGMENTATION, LIFTS

1.   
pain is variable

2.   
it takes 2-3 months for implants to settle and muscles to relax

3.   
celebrex, motrin, and muscle relaxers can help

4.   
massage and stretching may help

5.   
everyone heals differently

6.   
4-7 days off from work is common

HEALING OF SENSORY NERVES: Tingling, burning or shooting pains, which will disappear
with time and should not alarm you, indicate regeneration of the sensory
nerves. If these sensations cause pain, repeated, local self-massage helps.

ASYMMETRY: The two breasts commonly heal quite differently. One
breast may swell more, feel more uncomfortable, or have a different initial
shape. After complete healing, they will be more similar and natural. You must
have patience, but if this causes concern, ask questions of the doctor or the
nursing staff.

SHAPE AND CONTOUR: The final shape of your breasts will start to look its
best approximately three (3) months after surgery. It takes time for the skin
and muscle to stretch and relax around the new implant. The breast will often
look higher, firmer, and “less natural” in the first three (3) months. It can
take up to a year to see your final result.

FOLLOW-UP EXAMS: These are generally done in 1 week, 2 to 3
weeks, 3 to 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months to 1 year, and 1-2 year intervals. In
our office we include all of your follow up appointments in the initial
surgical fee.

With all of these issues causing concern it would be best to visit your surgeon to have the area examined and make sure that healing is progressing as it should. Best of luck to you.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

This needs to be examined in person.  It could be nothing or it could be an infection.  Only the plastic surgeon can tell you.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

I would recommend that you contact your surgeon to discuss your concerns at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Sharline Z. Aboutanos, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Redness, warmth and swelling are indications for an in-person examination. It is best to get in touch with your surgeon so that they can evaluate you properly.

James E. Leake, MD (retired) · Answer

the sensitivity change after BA is normal. the other symptoms of redness, warmth and swollen-- not so much. you should have your BCPS look at the area. it is probably nothing, but do not deal in seeking consult. After a BA there are many different responses patients have and most of them resolve.

Swollen/red/warm to touch nipples starting 3 weeks post-op BA, is this normal?

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Swollen/red/warm to touch nipples starting 3 weeks post-op BA, is this normal?

Answers (5)

Answer: Nipple concern after breast augmentation

Answer: Nipple concern after breast augmentation

Answer: Swollen, red nipples

Answer: Swollen, red nipples

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.