Does a reconstructed breast feel different?

What kind of sensation can be expected to return to the newly reconstructed area following breast reconstruction surgery?

2 answers to “Does a reconstructed breast feel...”

A: The numbness is from the breast removal surgery

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello, Breasts are numb after mastectomy. The reason is that removal of the breast includes the nerves that provide that sensation. Breast reconstruction does not replace this lost sensation to any good extent anyway. A "crude pressure feeling" is commonly all that a patient gets whether or not... more

A: Numbness likely after mastectomy with or without reconstruction

Sutton Graham II, MD

Dear Sandy:  I'm sorry to hear you're facing breast cancer and its treatment.  However, treatment is more successful now than in the past, including reconstruction.  As far as breast sensation you should discuss with your tumor surgeon and plastic surgeon their experiences with the types of... more

Comments

Laurel
7 posts
22 May 2009

I had bilateral immediate reconstruction with expanders and implants I currently have reasonabley good feeling in my skin. There is no numbness at this point. That is 2 years later

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