Is this nipple death? (Photo)

Question

Hello! First, please excuse the imprint on my breast from the pad I had in my bra. I had a breast reduction about 10 days ago. The tape was removed today. I'm concerned because my nipple looks like a huge scar for some reason. Is that normal? Is this nipple death? Am I just freaking out for no reason? Thank you in advance!

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

Thank you for your picture.  This is not necessarily nipple death.  It could be that just the surface skin has been loss (partial-thickness loss).  Nipple death represents full thickness loss.  Partial thickness loss will healing with new pink skin. The pigmentation will slowly come back over 6-12 months.Best wishes.

John Mancoll, MD · Answer

It is a little hard to say just from the picture. It could be that the incision has separated a little. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon's advice and hopefully all will heal nicely.

John S Mancoll,MD

Rafael Gottenger, MD · Answer

Good Afternoon and thank you for your inquiry and picture, it seems there is some compromised skin, it could be superficial and get better only with appropriate wound care, however the best recommendation is to do a close follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon. 
Good luck with your recovery!

Karen Quigley, MD · Answer

First I would say that if you have concerns of this nature, I would call your plastic surgeon and let him look at you. It is hard to tell from your picture what is going on but if I was going to make a guess I would say that you have some "epidermolysis". This means that the top skin has been traumatized but the nipple and areola are ok. The rest of your breast looks quite good. I would keep some antibiotic ointment on it and see your plastic surgeon as soon as you can.

Is this nipple death? (Photo)

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Answer: Is this nipple dead?

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Is this nipple death? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Is this nipple dead?

Answer: Is this nipple dead?

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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.