Worried my nipple is dying after breast lift? 6 days post-op. (photos)

Dear kimzamudio,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thanks for your inquiry,  from the picture it is hard to advise.  I believe closely following up with your surgeon is the most important thing, hope for a speedy reovery.  

It does appear that one of your nipples is having some trouble with it's blood supply. It is too early to tell how severe the problem. Hopefully in several days the top layers will peel and healthy tissue below will then heal. If you have a full thickness loss then eventual healing and a nipple reconstruction may be needed. Time and trying not to worry is good advice for now. Good luck.

Your surgeon may have given you a list of things to call about after surgery. Have you contacted their office? It is best to be seen in person, as the examination is a very important part of determining what is going on. Be sure to follow your board certified plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions. Best of luck to you.

Sorry that you are having issues following your breast lift with implants.  Looking at your photos, it does appear that there are areas of poor circulation to the nipple and areola.  This early on, it can be difficult to know how severe the circulation problem actually is and how much tissue loss, if any, you might end up with.  Your surgeon is in the best position to assess the color changes that you describe, and evident in your photos -- additional signs of health to the skin and its circulation require touching the tissue.Keeping the areas appropriately lubricated and clean is very important in supporting the struggling tissues.  Antibiotic ointments or microbials may also provide some protection as the skin goes through its recovery phases.  Should some of the skin slough or actually die, wound care and moisture protection becomes even more important.  Your surgeon will be able to guide you through this process and provide frequent assessments.  Best of luck to you.  Dr. Ghafoori