Should I be concerned? My left nipple is slightly purple compared to the right. (Photo)

Question

I am 5 days post surgery. I went from 320/350cc. 11 years old and One nursing baby later. I went in for a lollipop lift and implant exchange. We went up to 580/650cc and he had to do a partial Anchor. Now my left nipple looks purple ish. Should I be concerned? I saw my doctor this morning and didn’t see it to ask.

Nathan W. Patterson, MD, FACS · Answer

If your doctor examined you this morning and felt that the color difference was okay then he or she must think you are fine.  On the other hand, I do see a color difference which could raise some concerns of venous congestion.  It is always hard to tell from photographs and a short description exactly what is going on.  I think the safest thing is for you to call your doctor's office tomorrow and speak with someone there.  If nothing else, it may just resolve your concerns.  Most likely, if you are 5 days out from surgery now you will be just fine.

Joshua Kreithen, MD · Answer

Dear Kate,
Based on your comments... it seems like you went to your PS office and he/she didn't examine your nipple/areolar?  I would recommend that you make sure they see how it looks, either go back to the office or send the photos to be evaluated.  There is definitely some venous congestion there, which may just be minor however let your PS decide if anything needs to be done.  Good luck and hope this helps!

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would make sure that your PS has examined this and if not see him/her again. If there is refill, sensation intact then this is a good sign but venous congestion is always a concern with purple discolouration. At 5 days if it is not getting darker then you should be OK but make sure your PS has examined the nipple areola complex.

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Usually, a purple color after a lift would signify a venous excess of blood. If your surgeon was not concerned, then it was probably not significant enough to treat. Congrats on your surgery.

Should I be concerned? My left nipple is slightly purple compared to the right. (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Purple color of nipples

Answer: Purple color of nipples

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Should I be concerned? My left nipple is slightly purple compared to the right. (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Purple color of nipples

Answer: Purple color of nipples

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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.