What Are Symptoms of Necrosis of the Nipple?

Question

I had saline implants for ten years,they recently found a lump and a biopsy was done, Thank God it was a fibroadenoma. I got scared after the whole process and decided to remove my implants and get a breast lift. After the surgery my right breast was still bleeding. I went to see my PS and he took out the bandages and the bleeding stop. I am now five days post op, my breast are healing fine the only problem is my left nipple looks purple. Do I have Necrosis? There is some pink behind the darknes

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If necrosis is present the tissue will appear black.  However you do not want to wait until that occurs.  If you are noticing changes in the appearance of your nipple/areola I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  It could be normal color changes associated with healing, but it is best to follow up with your surgeon.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Necrosis is the end point of ischemia or decreased blood flow. The hallmark is a progressively darkening appearance. With regards to your specific question, your described symptoms may or may not be concerning. Based upon your description of your fibroadenoma excision, it would be likely that your nipple was devascularized. The discoloration is likely resolving ecchymosis (bruising). Ultimately, more imprtant than the discoloration is the progression. Necrosis worsens over time (darker) and bruising improves (pinker). Without an exam it is impossible to say for certain.As always discuss your concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, 5 days is too soon for everything to look normal. The purple color might still be a sign of bruising. As you
may know, there will be swelling and bruising  after any surgical procedure. Since your procedure is only 5 days
ago, redness is usually the first stage of bruising followed by blue,
purple, and finally, the healing stage of green and yellow. Contact your surgeon if you are still concerned and discuss more information about your aftercare. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Tyler Angelos, MD, FACS · Answer

Purple discoloration of the nipple after breast surgery could be a sign of circulation problems. (Generally it is a problem with blood draining away from the nipple through the veins as opposed to blood getting to the nipple through the small arteries). A purple color could also just mean bruising. Prompt follow up with your plastic surgeon is recommended to see which treatment (if any) is necessary.

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

Tough to answer this without examination.  This is why it is critical to see your PS.  Only he or she can decide what is going on.  It may be nothing more than your nipple healing, but it could represent something more than that.  Good luck

	Dr. V- South Shore Plastic Surgery

What Are Symptoms of Necrosis of the Nipple?

Answers (10)