Nipples hurt after Breast Augmentation (week 3 post op). Is it ok?

Question

After wearing that surgical bra for the 3rd week my nipples started to hurt. I take it off during the day for a couple of hours but still.. How women wear bras? Do their nipples hurt all the time because of their bra's preassure? Or is it because of long time wearing that bra and it's a little tight?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for
your question!

Changes in nipple
sensation and sensitivity are very common, especially this early in the
recovery period. Your surgeon may have counselled you about this, but basically
what happens is that implants, especially large implants, may press against
sensory nerves near the breast tissue leading to either increased or decreased
sensitivity in breast sensation. This is why going for a moderate sized implant
is best. Normally, the sensitivity you have described subsides after 2-4 weeks
on its own.

This is because
your breasts will stretch to accommodate your implants, and your sensory nerves
will no longer be compressed. The final results from breast augmentation can
result anywhere from 3-6 months.

It is best to be
in touch with you plastic surgeon for follow-ups and questions. If the pain is
too much to bear, ask your surgeon if gabapentin would help. Gabapentin can
help with neuropathic pain and it may help you but it does take a few days to
begin working. You may alternatively try on a different sized bra that has soft
padding and see if that helps.

Always consult
with them first, and their instructions should take precedence over everything
else you read here. Their pain management protocol should be followed, and you
should discuss your concerns of hypersensitivity with them.

Hope this helps.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Nipple sensitivity is common post op and will usually return to normal within the first month. You could share your concern with your Plastic Surgeon and see if they recommend switching bras or using some padding to relieve pressure for a while.All the best

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Changes in nipple sensation during healing from breast augmentation is normal.  The breasts are swollen and that is causing nerve sensation to be altered.  You should find improvement over the coming weeks as healing continues.  If it does not improve or worsens, contact your surgeon.

Barry M. Schwartz, MD (retired) · Answer

Many women experience post operative nipple discomfort which is due to the stretching of the nerve supply to the nipple and areola.  This usually resolves within 6 to 8 weeks although occasionally women will have some degree of hypersensitivity after the procedure.  At this time, the discomfort can be decreased by wearing something over the nipple to protect it from rubbing.

Paul Silverstein, MD (retired) · Answer

Nipple pain post BA. Many women have changes and nipple feeling both too sensitive for a lesson today for a month or two postop. This usually disappears after about 1 to 2 months. . There is no need to worry as long as the nipples have a normal color. Sometimes ice packs for ibuprofens will help.

Nipples hurt after Breast Augmentation (week 3 post op). Is it ok?

Answers (5)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (5)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Should I be really worried?

Is it ok that my skin is peeling off like crazy on my breast after Breast Augmentation? (I'm 18 days post op)

I didn't stop taking supplements before breast augmentation and the surgery is tomorrow?

What does 900cc augmentation look like?

When can I hug my children?

Can surgery still go on with high blood pressure?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS