Is this necrosis/something serious? I have been seeing my doctor weekly and he’s not concerned, but I am. (photo)

Question

I had a breast lift and augmentation 3 weeks ago. My whole Areola looks deformed. My surgeon assured me it is all superficial and gave me xeroform to our on and told me to use neosporin and gauze. I have people telling me it’s infected but he said it’s just scar tissue. I have dozens of people telling me to go to the ER and not trust my dr... I don’t know what to do

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that you have suffered a very rare complication of a combined breast lift and breast augmentation surgery. You appear to have some partial necrosis of a portion of your areola. I think the ER would not be a good place to go, as the physicians there are not equipped to take care of this.  Also, it does not appear to be infected.The best person to discuss this with is your plastic surgeon.  Dressing changes, as your plastic surgeon is recommending, is the best thing to do at this point.  By keeping the wounds moist, you'll promote healing.It may take a few more weeks until this is completely healed, and down the road a scar revision may be necessary. We never perform breast lifts (or tummy tucks) on patients that smoke cigarettes, as these women have a much higher likelihood of wound healing issues and necrosis of the areola.  I imagine you are not smoking, but if you are, you need to stop immediately. Thanks for sharing.  Hang in there, and keep in close contact with your plastic surgeon.

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Based on the photo, you are experiencing tissue necrosis but it does not appear infected. The best course of action would be to schedule an appointment with your surgeon for wound assessment and management.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Maria,You have some minor necrosis along the distal (furthest) part of your areola.  It will need to be cleaned up and the local tissue will grow in (it does not appear to be infected from your photo).  You will need to wait one year to see how well the scar heals before contemplating any revision procedure.  Continue following your Plastic Surgeon's instructions.Good luck with your continued healing.Dr T

Is this necrosis/something serious? I have been seeing my doctor weekly and he’s not concerned, but I am. (photo)

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Is this necrosis/something serious? I have been seeing my doctor weekly and he’s not concerned, but I am. (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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