How long will it take to get better? I had explant 4.5 months ago.

Question

I still have bruise-like pain, heaviness and itchiness in my left breast after explant over 4.5 months ago. There is no seroma, hematoma or fluid anymore, the other breast is completely healed and smaller. The lightning-like, shooting, stinging pains never went away, they seem to be getting worse. Also, that nipple does not contract like it used to. It is almost always flat and unresponsive to cold and touch. It is hypersensitive and hurts to touch or press. Anyone know why this is not healing?

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

The pain you are describing is consistent with nerve pain. Nerve pain can manifest as sharp shooting pains, burning and itchy sensations along with sensation changes. Nerves take a long time to recover from surgery, a minimum of one year. After one year, things usually improve. If the pain is severe or keeping you up at night, Neurotin is a medication that may help quiet those nerves down over time.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you are having issues so far from surgery.  Your situation is not common and should be addressed by your surgeon.  The burning and itching sensation is likely related to nerves that are healing from surgery.  Be sure to closely follow your surgeon's instructions.

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