Will I lose my nipple and square look? (photo)

Question

I am week three - had implants removed and lift/ reduction. My right nipple scabbed and bleed first two weeks. Just wondering if i may still have a nipple lurking under the scab and also i look very square - is this likely to improve from your experience? Living in hope.

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

Nipple appearance changes are expected to occur from any breast lift or reduction surgery. Scabbing can occur from decreases in circulation to portions of the breast skin and/or nipple. With these types of surgery, there are always risks of small areas of delayed healing or small areas of skin loss and even nipple loss from poor circulation. I would recommend being patient and allowing everything to heal. It is usually remarkable how things heal and continue to improve for months and up to 1 year after surgery. Many times, the results end up being quite satisfactory. Also have realistic expectations, as nipples are not perfectly round and there is no such thing as perfect symmetry. Minor scar revisions and nipple revisions are easily performed in the office setting after complete healing and a period of observation, making sure the scars are soft and supple before surgical revision. Improving the shape or size of the nipple is straightforward. If you experience patchy color changes to the nipple/areola or even partial or complete loss of the nipple or areola, tattooing can restore color. Nipples and nipple projection can also be reconstructed and improved upon, if need be.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  The shape is square most likely due to the technique used in the lift.  The nipple unfortunately has been lost.  You must visit with your PS to determine your best course of action.Dr. ES

Andrea Marando, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question on the shape of the breast following implant removal and uplift. It is normal for the first few weeks for the breasts to have a squared appearance in the lower pole; they will settle soon and regain the normal roundness.With regards to your left nipple, from the photo it looks as if it has suffered a temporary reduction of blood supply. I would recommend to contact your surgeon to be reassessed and advised accordingly.All the best.Andrea Marando

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

You need to see your Plastic Surgeon as soon as possible regarding your nipple.  Your breast are still healing and have not taken shape, yet.  They will settle into a natural tear drop shape as they heal.  We really can't make square breast.  No worries!

Will I lose my nipple and square look? (photo)

Answers (4)