I Had Breast Implants over a Year Ago I Have Servere Pain in my Nipples and Areola

Hello! Thank you for your question! Your symptoms sound like your
nerves regenerating. Breast procedures such as the
breast augmentation and breast lift/reduction certainly result in a more
shapely,
perky, and fuller appearance of your breasts. With any breast procedure
there is a risk, albeit very small, of change in
sensation to the area. The reported rate of sensation changes
(decreased, loss, or increased) is ~7% for lift/reductions and much
smaller for breast augmentation. In my experience, this rate is
reportedly much lower, but is higher when tissue is excised or the
amount of lift that is needed, so the breast reduction procedure has a
slightly greater risk. It can take up to a year for full sensation to
return. Re-educating your nerves to these areas by using different
textures when showering and putting on lotion often helps.  At one year, you should discuss this with your surgeon.  Consideration for downsizing or explantation should be discussed if the pain is that significant.  It is one risk of such a procedure, and
one that you must consider, amongst others, as with any surgical
procedure. You should consult with a plastic surgeon well-trained in
breast procedures who will examine and discuss with you the various
risks and benefits of the procedure(s) and assist you in deciding if
such a procedure will be the right decision for you.

There are many potential causes for pain in your nipple areola complex after a breast augmentation.  Pain that persists up to a year needs evaluation and treatment by your plastic surgeon.  You may have an entrapped nerve, possibly from a capsular contracture, or you may have a neroma (a painful swelling on a nerve).  No matter what the cause of the pain, it needs to be evaluated sooner rather than later. 

You may want to visit with your plastic surgeon to take a look.  You may have neuromas which are causing the pain.  They can be surgically removed or temporarily blocked with lidocaine.

Is this bilateral? If yes than I have NEVER heard of bilateral N/A pain after a year postoperative. You need to be examinesd in person and than testing of the type.place, degree of pain occurring. 

It is unusual to have pain so long after breast augmentation.  I would recommend to be evaluated by your surgeon first.

Dear Tracy in Fresno,

I have had a few patients over the last 20 years with post op pain as you describe.  All have resolved with a combination of local regional blocks, desensitization exercises and medication.  Google the Gate Theory of pain for starters.

Of course your situation may have unique issues so I suggest that you revisit your Plastic surgeon for evaluation and treatment.  Good luck.

 

You should speak to the surgeon who did the operation.  I assume the pain you're experiencing has not been there since surgery.  If that's the case, you need to be evaluated for capsular contracture and other potential problems.

Severe pain at your point of recovery from surgery is definitely not normal.  You should see your PS as soon as possible and discuss your concerns with him/her. If you are not getting the answer or explanation you want then you should seek a second opinion.

 

Severe pain this long after breast augmentation is not expected.  Your past history (incision, implant type, evolution of discomfort) and physical examination are all relevant and should be reviewed by your plastic surgeon.