After a nipple sparing mastectomy, does a dusky, painful nipple mean potential for necrosis

Question

I had a double mastectomy in 2013, nipple sparing.Nipples ok til~6mos ago. Dx/DCIS stg 0,intermed. grade.DCIS was just under nipple-margins clear.Over past 6mos,my R nipple (cancer side), after running for about an hr training for a half marathon), becomes cold, dusky,constricted,painful,like a hot poker. Feels nerve related (gabapentin helps).Thoughts? Is my nipple at risk for necrosis? Oddly, I also have Raynauds. It reminds me of this. Similar presentation as my fingers.

Manish C. Champaneria, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Since your mastectomy was a few years ago, your nipple is likely not at risk of necrosis now. You may be experiencing decreased blood flow to the nipple after extreme exercise. This could also be related to Reynauds, as you may have some changes in your circulation. If this continues to bother you, I would return to your surgeon for a physical examination.Thanks,Manish C. Champaneria, MD

Heather Richardson, MD, FACS · Answer

What you are experiencing is vasospasm in your nipple. It is related to the Raynaud's and is going to be made worse with exposure to cold and friction. Try to keep the tissue warm, as much as possible and you should avoid these symptoms. The blood pressure medicine Nifidepine has been reported as helpful in breastfeeding mothers with vasospasm and may be worth investigating if you find that it isn't reasonable to keep the area warm and dry while training/competing for a race. Ask a breast surgeon specialist or your primary care doctor about this!

Leslie Memsic, MD, FACS · Answer

Necrosis indicates inadequate blood supply and death of the tissue. This occurs in the early postoperative period so is unlikely to be the case in your situation. It sounds like you may have some vascular (blood vessel) or lymphatic issue that causes the nipple changes you describe but that should not cause any danger to you or your nipple. There may not be any easy fixes to normalize your nipple, but you are cancer free and no intervention is necessary. If the color bothers you, seek consultation regarding tattooing. This may improve the cosmesis of your nipple. The pain is another problem and I think you have hit on the answer -it likely is similar to your Reynauds's syndrome. Keeping the nipple warm improves the blood supply and minimizes pain.Good luck and take care.

After a nipple sparing mastectomy, does a dusky, painful nipple mean potential for necrosis

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After a nipple sparing mastectomy, does a dusky, painful nipple mean potential for necrosis

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Everything you need to know about Mastectomy

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