5 days post op breast reduction areolas cracking. Can this be possible areola necrosis? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast reduction 6/27 the day after my left breast had swollen to double the size of the right breast. My surgeon surgically drained the hematoma in his office as I had eaten and couldn't be taken into surgery. Now my left nipple feels weird and my left breast aches. The nipple has sensation but it has multiple cracks in the Areola. Their are no steri strips on this breast.

Omar Lazos, MD · Answer

From a simple glance your areolas look fine, the image is not compatible with nipple necrosis. Your surgeon did an excellent job draining the hematoma and saving the nipple. Please be patient, and go all the way along with your surgeon, everything looks fine. Best regards.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Your surgeon acted quickly and saved your nipple! Your nipple looks fine. No need to worry! Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear vsftobombshell,it is hard to tell without an examination. Based on your photos, it doesn't look like a necrosis. However, if you are concerned you should consult your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

John W. Tyrone, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question,
From the photos you have provided everything looks normal in the healing process. The cracking you are seeing is just dryness from your recent surgery. You may want to check with your plastic surgeon to see if moisturizing is an option at this point in your recovery. Best of luck in the rest of your healing!

Stephen U. Harris, MD · Answer

It doesn't appear that there is any necrosis of your left nipple.  It would be normal to have more discomfort after reoperation, since a second breast procedure, and internal manipulation of the breast was required.
It is likely that after several weeks to months, the weird feelings and discomfort of the left breast will resolve, and the nipple should look more normal.

5 days post op breast reduction areolas cracking. Can this be possible areola necrosis? (Photo)

Answers (5)