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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Question regarding nipple sparring mastectomy

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Miami, FL

Hi ladies, my PS warned me that most likely my nipples would not survive due to two lumpectomies plus oncoplastic reconstruction 8 weeks ago. My DMX with DTI was last Thursday. Today, I took a look at my breasts and the cancerous side the nipple looks great but my healthy breast the nipple looks ischemic. Has this happened to anyone? Is there hope that maybe it can survive? I would hate to go through another surgery. I was hospitalized because they had to rule out PE and thankfully it wasn’t the… read more

March 31
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A MyBCTeam Member

I have a f/u with my PS tomorrow and will ask regarding that cream. He never mentioned the cream to me. Praying for a speedy recovery for you. Sending you a big hug!!!

March 31
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Suzette4 sorry to hear the issues that you are experiencing. After my reduction I had similar issue on the left as the nipple had to be repositioned. My surgeon had prescribed a glycerin( I forgot name) to apply to improve blood flow to the area. I used for two days only. It really helped as the nipple was saved.
All the best to you dear in crossing these hurdles and to getting well.

March 31
MyBCTeam

Is there hope your nipple can survive even though it looks ischemic?

Yes, there is hope. Some nipple scabbing and color changes are normal after nipple-sparing mastectomy as your body heals. A MyBCTeam member shared a similar experience: "It was pretty gross. Dark purple and scabs. Sent the doctor pictures, and he said it Show Full Answer

Is there hope your nipple can survive even though it looks ischemic?

Yes, there is hope. Some nipple scabbing and color changes are normal after nipple-sparing mastectomy as your body heals. A MyBCTeam member shared a similar experience: "It was pretty gross. Dark purple and scabs. Sent the doctor pictures, and he said it was fine. And it is."

The reduced blood supply during surgery can cause temporary discoloration and scabbing. If the necrosis is minimal, it may heal on its own with proper wound care over several weeks to months. What should you watch for?

Contact your surgical team right away if you notice:
- Increasing redness, tenderness, or swelling
- Skin that looks black, dark brown, or dark blue
- Open wounds
- Fever

Your surgeon can assess whether what you're seeing is normal healing or requires intervention. If treatment is needed and the necrosis is minimal, it might only require a minor procedure rather than major surgery. At-home care while healing:

Follow your surgeon's post-surgery instructions carefully. This typically includes applying petroleum jelly to your nipple and covering with gauze, reapplying after showers. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotic ointment.

Given everything you've been through, it's completely understandable to feel worried and exhausted. Send photos to your surgical team and let them guide you through this healing process.

March 31

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