Is my nipple grafts failing or infected? (Photos)

Question

I had too surgery about 12 days ago and of course everyone concerns are usually the nipples, I don’t know what they’re supposed to look like is this normal in healing or should I be worried?

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear priincep, Thank you for your question and congratulations on your operation. As of right now, it appears that your wound healing is normal. However, if you are having concerns I suggest following up with your Board Certified Operating Surgeon. Best of luck to you.

Babak Dadvand, MD · Answer

Hi,Thanks for the post and photos. At twelve days it is hard to say how well a nipple graft is or will eventually heal. That being said, based on the photos your grafts appear to be healing appropriately.Sincerely,Dr. Dadvand

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

There are degrees of what is considered "normal" healing of a nipple skin graft, and the appearance in these photos is within the realm of normal. It is difficult to tell which areas will slough and which areas are viable, but often even areas that do not survive in the graft will have tissue regenerate from surrounding areas.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

The way that nipple grafts heal is identical to the way that a skin graft heals. The greater the distance from the underlying bed of nursing, blood vessels, the more likelihood that the skin will die. This is why the areola portion of the nipple graft generally heals without any difficulty, where as the nipple itself oftentimes develops necrosis on its surface. Please be patient and follow the instructions of your surgeon.

Anthony J. Wilson, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It does appear that your nipple grafts have some delayed healing. This is not out of the ordinary in this recovery process. Every surgeon has different approach towards nipple grafts. You should reach out to your surgeon to discuss. I will note that for my patients if this occurs I have them start silvadene cream for two or three weeks and the graft will usually recover. Best of luck.

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