1 year post op soreness - is this normal?

Question

Is it normal to see be getting soreness mainly the nipples are off I’m 11 months post op?? I will be a year next month.

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Clintongirl!  Although it is not terribly common to have soreness a year out from surgery, I will say that everyone's postoperative experience is different, and it's possible to have some residual intermittent pain.  The breasts have a ton of nerve endings, especially in the nipples and these nerves can become inflamed after surgery resulting in soreness.  I typically see this nerve-type pain resolve within a few months out of surgery but know that there are a handful of people that can have soreness for a longer period of time.  I highly recommend researching "desensitization therapy" and utilizing some of those techniques.  A physical therapist specializing in the breast can also be helpful.  For anyone planning to undergo a breast reduction, I highly recommend seeking out a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in surgery of the breast to perform your surgery.  I wish you the best and hope that your soreness resolves soon.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. It is not unusual to have some discomfort and swelling for upto one year after surgery. If the soreness is excessive and not improving, you should certainly visit your surgeon. All the best!

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Some mild soreness or sensitivity—especially around the nipples—can be normal even up to a year post-op, particularly if you've had procedures involving nerve disruption like a breast augmentation, lift, or reduction. Here's a quick breakdown of what might be going on:
What could be normal
•	Nipple sensitivity or soreness: Nerve endings can take 12–18 months to fully regenerate. Some people experience intermittent tingling, itching, or soreness during this process.
•	Weather or hormone-related tenderness: Changes in temperature or your menstrual cycle can trigger nerve sensitivity, especially in healing tissue.
•	Scar tissue maturing: Scar remodeling happens for up to a year or more post-op. Some tightness or soreness may come and go as tissue adjusts.
When to check in with your surgeon
•	The soreness is persistent or worsening
•	There’s redness, swelling, or warmth, which could signal infection or inflammation
•	One breast looks or feels noticeably different from the other (asymmetry, hardness, shifting)
•	You notice lumps or firmness that feel new or unusual
If your nipples feel "off" or sore and you're almost at the 1-year mark, it’s likely part of nerve healing, but definitely worth mentioning it at your 1-year post-op checkup (or sooner if you're concerned). A quick follow-up can give you peace of mind and rule out anything unexpected.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! Your body is still healing after 11 months, but it is still abnormal to have some soreness. I would follow-up with your plastic surgeon and GYN to ensure there's not something else going on with your breasts.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Breast soreness can be related to many causes including hormonal effects, activity level, fit of bras, sleeping positions, etc.  If the soreness is severe see your surgeon to rule out any concerns.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Some women have soreness in their breasts, especially around the time of their period, even with no implants. This might continue until menopause.  If you have concerns, go back to your surgeon.

1 year post op soreness - is this normal?

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