Open wound nipple 21 days post breast reduction, advice? (photos)

Question

It has been 21 days since I had a breast reduction, went from DD/E to a C. First my left nipple dark purple (Not black) covered with a black crust. After 1 week the nipple went pink, and the wound start healing (with clear blood and lot of wound fluid), no infection. But this past friday (19 days post surgery, I noticed a type of hole between skin and breast (see photo), I am able to see dissolvable stiches. Would like to hear a second opinion on what is happening and how long for recovery

Christian A. Prada, MD, FACS · Answer

From you pictures, it looks like you have lost a portion of your nipple in terms of viability.  The best treatment choice at this time is local wound care.  You can also consider hyperbaric oxygen to help it heal.  After you are healed you may consider tattooing to help with any pigment loss.  Work closely with your PS to make sure you have the best outcome.

John W. Gillespie III, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I understand your concerns.  The pictures show partial loss of your nipple.  This is an unfortunate outcome but there is an increased risk of this happening with larger reductions.  You are only 3 weeks out from your surgery and strict local wound care guided by your PS will help prevent overt infection and improve healing.  Let everything declare itself over the next few weeks in terms of which tissue will still be viable after the eschar/scab falls off.  Once this happens and granulation tissue is present, your PS may opt to allow for secondary healing which may be a lengthy process or decide a revision is necessary.  Either way, keep the area clean and if you develop more drainage, puss, redness or fevers, let your PS know.  Hope this helps!

Jorge Jiménez Toribio, MD · Answer

Hi dear.. Thank you for your question and the provided pictures.Based on the photos the scar is not looking good. I'd suggest sticking to what your PS says, he is the one who is in charge of your procedure and might know tell you what to do in this case.  If you are comfortable discussing your concerns with your plastic surgeon, you should do it to prevent any further complications.Hope this helps!Dr. Jiménez Toribio Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

Open wound nipple 21 days post breast reduction, advice? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Open wound nipple 21 days post breast reduction, advice? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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