Is there any hope for my nipple? 9 days post breast lift. Day of surgery my left nipple was purple. (Photos)

Question

I had a f/u the next day and my dr prescribed nitro bid, I have seen him multiple times for follow up, he believes the top part has circulation and the nipple and bottom part may slough off- I am worried that i will have a large open wound. One side of the Areola that is kind of a shiny brown, and my nipple and the left side of Areola are black and leathery. My nipple also seems to be flattening. What is the normal progression?

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. At this point, 9 days from surgery, there is not much that can be done but watch and wait. Any blood flow issues are too late to be addressed and now your body has to decide which portions of the nipple are going to die and slough off and which portions are going to survive. This may take weeks to fully develop and heal and in the meantime I would suggest you continue to follow your surgeons instructions regarding wound care and followup. Hope this helps!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear S39CCK,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nicholas A. Flugstad, MD · Answer

Hi , thanks or posting. This is a known but relatively rare risk of breast lift or breast reduction. At this point, watchful waiting is needed to see which areas of the areola and nipple survive. It's likely you will have an open wound there for awhile if part of the areola does slough off. Oncet this heals, some solutions to improve the appearance can be assessed.

Is there any hope for my nipple? 9 days post breast lift. Day of surgery my left nipple was purple. (Photos)

Answers (3)

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