Can your nipples have nerve damage after a breast augmentation?

Question

I am 2 week’s post op and I am also 5”9 170. I have 375 cc implants under the muscle (which look way bigger on me) but I have had the shocking pain through my nipples. Mostly on my left side. I knew that it would be some pain but it feels like a burning sensation rushing through my nipple every time I sit or move the slightest. I Called for a refill of pain medication because it hurts that much. Massaging helps a little, Is this normal? Do you think that it may be nerve damage? Please help

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

After breast augmentation, there is much swelling and stretching of the nerves. They can be altered or injured, like a bruise, to give you these sensations. You think about it, it's good to have sensations, even if they are irritating now, because it lets you know that the nerves are attached. I think you just need time to let things settle down and it is most likely you will regain normal sensation without the nerve pain. This can take weeks to months or even a year.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

All breast implants stretch tissue. That's how a breast cup actually becomes bigger - by stretching the skin to accommodate your implant size. Nerves do not like to be stretched and it sounds like you have the classic symptoms of this phenomena. It is not permanent and should get better after you're fully stretched out. What works for my patients is vibratory massage 3 times a day with Arnica Cream and Gabapentin prescription. Ask your surgeon for approval on these. Good luck. Dr. ALDO

Graeme J. Southwick, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. While these sensations of shock and pain may be extremely uncomfortable, they are a normal part of the healing process after breast augmentation. Most patients experience a change in nipple sensation as the nerves adjust to being stretched and displaced, but in almost all cases, it is temporary and will resolve on its own, hopefully within a few weeks, but it can also take a couple of months. It all depends on your body and your individual healing process. I would recommend talking to your surgeon and letting them know wha is going on, just for the sake of keeping them aware. Good luck!

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

It is not unusual to have some odd sensations in the nipple after surgery, including an electrical shock-like sensation, numbness, burning, or tingling. Usually these are transient sensations (weeks to a couple of months to resolve). In rare cases, nerves can remain erratic in their sensation or the patient can experience complete numbness, but this would not be known for several months. If the sensations are painful, treatment of neuropathic pain can include Neurontin (gabapentin). Muscle relaxants may also help your breast generally feel less spasmy. Follow up regularly with your surgeon.

Cain R. Linville, MD, FACS · Answer

It is possible to have nerves that are cut or irritated after BAM.  Usually this is just some transient numbness or hypersensitivity that resolves but occasionally the numbness persists.  Hypersensitivity can be treated with gabapentin.

Earl E. Ferguson III, MD, FACS · Answer

All of the concerns that you describe are quite common following augmentation.  They are generally a result of swelling or bruising of the nerve that is caused by surgery and the stretch placed on those nerves.  There are some non-narcotic medications that may be beneficial (e.g. gabapentin) in these circumstances to get you through the early post-op period, but your symptoms will generally resolve over the next several weeks.

John W. Menard, MD · Answer

It is not unusual at all to experience the pain that you are describing after breast augmentation. It should correct itself. If it is severe or continues,please see your surgeon.

Can your nipples have nerve damage after a breast augmentation?

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