Does breast augmentation kill breast/nipple sensitivity?

Question

I am considering breast augmentation but I am concerned that it might negatively effect breast sensitivity/nipple sensitivity. I do not want to lose sensitivity. Thank you.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

A small percentage of patients may lose sensation, but most of the time this is temporary.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. The incision route that you choose- whether under the breast, through the areola or armpit will all have different risk factors for nipple function. When placing an implant through the crease under the breast I find that only some of my patients have temporary, minor sensation changes such as increased nipple sensitivity or numbness just above incision site. In either case this is usually resolved within a few months post op. During your consultation, talk with your Plastic Surgeon about your concerns and the best options for you.All the best

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Bellacove1,
when breast augmentation surgery is done correctly it won't cause loss of nipple sensitivity. It is very important to have a good preoperative preparation, to choose the right size implants, as well as a meticulous surgical technique.
If you are considering a breast augmentation surgery, I would recommend you to visit a board-certified plastic surgeon. 
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Christopher T. Maloney Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be uncommon to have long term sensation loss to the nipple after a breast augmentation. This being said, there is always a small risk and if it is that important to you, then you may not be a good candidate for this procedure. More commonly we see a temporary increase or decrease in sensation simply because the nerves are stretched when the implants are placed. This typically lasts 6-12 weeks and sensation returns to normal. Best of luck.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

In my experience, it is rare to have a permanent decrease or loss of feeling after breast augmentation surgery. Sometimes the nerve to the nipple is temporarily stretched, which could cause a temporary, annoying increase in sensitivity for about six weeks before the feeling returns to normal. Hope this information is reassuring. For more information on this and similar topics, I recommend a plastic surgery Q&A book like "The Scoop On Breasts: A Plastic Surgeon Busts the Myths."

Malcolm A. Lesavoy, MD, FACS · Answer

Nipple sensitivity may be effected after breast augmentation, but almost always will return to normal in one or two weeks.  However, the chances of nipple sensibility changes are increased if the augmentation is done through a peri areolar aproach and incision.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Breast augmentation surgery does carry a risk of decreased nipple sensitivity. Most patients do have changes to their nipple sensitivity, either greater or less sensitive, immediately after surgery. Over the course of several months to a year, the nipples return to their normal sensitivity levels. Overall studies have shown that there is a

David S. Rosenberg, MD · Answer

breast augmentation with implants definitely has a risk of decreasing sensation.  Fat transfer to the breasts would have a lower risk of affecting nipple sensation.  You might consider that instead of putting in implants.  Good luck!DSR

Millicent Odunze Geers, MD, MPH · Answer

Nope. Breast augmentation does not necessarily mean you will lose nipple sensitivity. In fact, the majority of the time the nipple sensation remains normal after breast augmentation. Sometimes, though, there may be  temporary decrease or loss of sensation as the breast tissue and nerves accommodate to the stretch caused by the implant. Longterm or permanent decreased nipple sensitivity may be more of a concern with larger implants volumes as they put more pressure on the nerves. Large volume implants come with a whole host of other issues that will be discussed in your consult.

Stefan Rene Adair, MD · Answer

If performed correctly one should not lose nipple sensitivity. I prefer an inframammary approach rather than a periareolar. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon- best of luck.

Does breast augmentation kill breast/nipple sensitivity?

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