Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

Question

I am 2.5 weeks postop from a breast lift and implant surgery. I am extremely happy with how my breast look. However, as the last of the scabs have come off in The last few days I've noticed a discoloration around the edge of my nipples. Should I be concerned? Is this normal? Will it heal and return to it's normal color? I should disclose that at around 2 weeks post op I vaped at an extremely low nicotine level over the weekend and had some wine. Could that have caused this & can it be corrected?

Joshua Kreithen, MD · Answer

Dear Finickyme,
If you had some "scabbing" that fell off then it appears some of the pigment of your areola came off with it as well, leading to some hypo-pigmentation.  It's hard to say if it will come back.  The redness of the circular scar is normal.  So, time will tell (give it 2-3 months)... the color may come back, if not... you can always get of permanent makeup/tattoo to color match the pigment.  Also, nicotine users are always higher risk patients for complications.  Hope this helps and good luck!

T. Randall Blanchard, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that you have lost a small amount of pigmentation around the edge of your nipple which is not uncommon following a breast augmentation with a lift. This can occur due to inflammatory reaction or reduced blood supply to the nipple occurring in the early stages of healing. The pigment should slowly even out over the next few weeks. If it doesn't return to normal by one year, you can have the deficient areas tattooed.

Audrey A. Klenke, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that you lost some pigment of the areola, which could be temporary or permanent. Go back and chat with your surgeon to see if there is anything he or she suggests to help. Also, do not use any further nicotine. I do not operate on anyone using any form of nicotine and many surgeons are very strict about this because we want you to have the best possible short and long term result. If the pigment doesn’t return, permanent micropigmentation is an option. Glad you’re happy with the result otherwise!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information.
You are still in the recovery process. i suggest you wait several 
months. I would suggest be patient if you have any concerns, you can talk to your 
surgeon.  
Good luck :)

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as early scar formation with slight spreading. Best to return to see your chosen operative surgeon fir evaluation and suggestions to improve..

Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned?

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned?

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

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Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned?

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned?

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answer: Nipple discoloration after lift & implant, 2.5 weeks post op . Does this look normal, or should I be concerned? (Photos)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.