Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
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.

For those with nipple sparring

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Miami, FL

I am 3 weeks post up today. I have had issues with my right nipple. Been using silver sulfa cream twice per day per PS instructions. Today the nipple looks like half is gone and the areola is turning black. I emailed my PS and was advised that it is a normal part of the healing process. It doesn’t look normal to me. Anyone has gone through this?

Sorry for being too graphic

Attaching two photos of today

April 16 (edited)
 · 
Reactions
MyBCTeam

Is it normal for my nipple to look like half is gone and the areola to turn black 3 weeks after nipple-sparing mastectomy?

Some nipple scabbing and color changes are part of the normal healing process after nipple-sparing mastectomy. The nipples receive less blood supply during surgery due to tissue removal, which can Show Full Answer

Is it normal for my nipple to look like half is gone and the areola to turn black 3 weeks after nipple-sparing mastectomy?

Some nipple scabbing and color changes are part of the normal healing process after nipple-sparing mastectomy. The nipples receive less blood supply during surgery due to tissue removal, which can cause discoloration and scabbing.

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."

However, these symptoms can also indicate nipple necrosis, where the nipple doesn't get enough blood, causing tissue to break down. Signs to watch for include:

- Scabbing that doesn't improve
- Black, dark brown, or dark blue discoloration
- Red, tender, or swollen skin
- Open wounds
- Fevers

Since your areola is turning black and the nipple appearance has changed significantly, it's important to follow up with your plastic surgeon beyond just email. Request an in-person examination if possible, especially if the discoloration worsens or you notice any of the other warning signs listed above.

The healing timeline varies—it could take weeks or months. Your surgeon can assess whether this is normal healing or if intervention is needed. The sooner any issues are addressed, the better the outcome.

April 16
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member
I am so sorry.

April 27
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Kally, I lost my right nipple unfortunately 😭 Thank yoi

April 27
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Suzette, mine never did that. It just stayed normal looking. I would ask you PS or primary to look at it, if anything to give you piece of mind. Sending hugs 💕

April 25
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member
I can’t make a comment about your situation but I hope your plastic surgeon see you as soon as possible for your peace of mind.

Sending hugs and prayers.

April 17

Related Questions

View All

Nipple sparing verses nipple reconstruction?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Westminster, CA
May 11, 2014

Nipple Scabbing After Mastectomy: 3 Things To Know
Nipple-Sparing (Subcutaneous) Mastectomy: What To Know
Nipple Tattoo After Mastectomy: What To Know