Karen, another approach to that nipple may be a shield.  The shield would
give some protection to the large wound, assisting in keeping the tissue more
in place during the feeding and less discomfort.
By the description of this wound, it may take more than a coupe of weeks to
heal.  In JHL from a few years back, there is an excellent article on nipple
damage and wound healing.  I believe the author was Marsha Stewart but I'm
not sure and my journals are at work.
Ann Perry RN, IBCLC
Boston, MA

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