Pus-filled Nipple & Areola? (photo)

Question

PS did large breast reduction & lift on 12/5/12. Areas of areola and nipple look like they are made of pus that PS says are just scabs. Other areola (not in photo) also has very darkened, scabby-looking areas that PS says are also scabs. I had some congestion due to very large reduction so PS says the nipples are struggling but thinks they will make it. Should I be concerned about these pus-filled (looking) areas? There isn't too much drainage from them on my daily dressing changes. Thanks!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

The picture provided seems to show a wound with dried

	fibrin (yellow stuff) over a wound at the top of the nipple.  This represents area where the blood supply may have been weak.  Local wound care (recommended by your PS) and time will usually solve this issue.

	Dr. ES

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The area at the top of your areola is a combination of devitalized tissue and healthy granulation tissue. It will likely heal with minimal problems with the final scar. The exudate is not pus, it is just granulation tissue.

Scott C. Sattler, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to have some 'delayed wound healing' along the nipple-areolar complex wound closure - this is not the typical appearance of a breast post reduction/lift. I would recommend visiting your plastic surgeon frequently for wound checks. In most cases, this situation heals with an acceptable scar that can be revised at a later time.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

In a word YES you need to be concerned. Visit your operative surgeon daily if that will make you comfortable.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure;  Hopefully you will be very pleased with the long-term outcome of the procedure.

	Your  picture demonstrates your concerns well;  I think your plastic surgeon has described the situation accurately to you. These types of areas where blood flow is somewhat compromised will likely go on to heal without long-term sequelae or detraction from the outcome of the procedure.

	 Continue to follow up with your plastic surgeon and enjoy the benefits after  “large breast reduction” you have achieved.

	 Best wishes.

Pus-filled Nipple & Areola? (photo)

Answers (5)