My doctor gave me SSD, a cream with silver in it to aid in the healing of my right breast nipple. Is this normal?

Question

I had a breast reduction 3 wks ago. 1st week post op, I noticed the nipple was not healing well and there was some small drainage every day near the rim of my areola. My PS checked the blood supply and it was good. He gave me an antibiotic ointment and told me to keep the area clean w/ soap and water. 2 wks post op, no change. He gave me the SSD cream to apply 1x a day. Four days after using the cream and I really don't see any difference and some skin is now missing. Is this normal?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Silvadene cream is a topical cream that is commonly used in burns and wounds.  There are some antibiotic properties (Sulfa drug) within the cream, and it does help ameliorate some of the wound issues.  Your plastic surgeon is following your wound appropriately and will give further recommendations - at this time, the recommendations seem appropriate and s/he will give you further advice on the healing of your wounds and further treatments, if any, are required.  Best wishes for a wonderful result - thank you for your question!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations performed. Although it is not possible to give you precise advice without physical examination or viewing pictures, it may be helpful for you to know that superficial wound healing problems are not uncommonly seen after breast reduction surgery. The most important "step" for successful resolution, in my opinion, is close follow-up with your plastic surgeon. He/she will be able to recommend appropriate local wound care (sulfa based antimicrobial cream is one such option), treat any infection present, and/or remove any suture material or unhealthy tissue that potentially will delay healing.
 Generally speaking, patients who experience these types of superficial separations go on to heal well, without long-term detraction from the end results.
 Best wishes.

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

Is not inappropriate to use Silvadene cream on a nipple areola complex that is healing. Silvadene is just a topical antibiotic to prevent any infection. Please follow your surgeon's advice. Good luck.Earl Stephenson Jr MD DDS FACS

My doctor gave me SSD, a cream with silver in it to aid in the healing of my right breast nipple. Is this normal?

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My doctor gave me SSD, a cream with silver in it to aid in the healing of my right breast nipple. Is this normal?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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