Permanent numbness after surgery - can it be prevented?

Question

I am interested in getting a breast lift after major weight loss. I previously had a monsplasty/panni to get rid of extra skin. It's been three years since that surgery and I have numbness along the scar lines that I iam assuming is permanent. This doesn't bother me much as it's not a sensitive area. With a breast lift however I iam worried about permanent numbness. What are the reasons why I might have numbness (location of incisions, deepness of incisions, etc) in this procedure and what are the average rates of permanent numbness in breast lifts? Anything I can do to prevent this numbness from happening?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Changes in sensation can occur as a result of surgery.  For the breasts most patients have sensation return within a few months.  For some it can take up to a year.  While it is uncommon, if sensation does not return after a year it is likely permanent.  Visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to discuss your concerns and learn more about the procedure.

Emre Guvercin, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Thank you for this very thoughtful question &mdash; your concern is absolutely valid, especially after already going through body contouring surgery.Some degree of temporary numbness is common after breast lift surgery, particularly around the nipple-areola complex. This is due to the stretching or disruption of small sensory nerves during skin and tissue repositioning.
Here’s what can contribute to numbness after a breast lift:
Incision location: Techniques like the anchor or vertical lift involve incisions around the areola and along the lower breast, where sensory nerves travel.Depth of dissection: More aggressive or deep tissue manipulation can increase the risk of nerve disturbance.Tissue quality after weight loss: After major weight loss, the skin and nerves may be more vulnerable due to stretching and thinning over time.The good news is, most changes in sensation are temporary. Studies suggest that permanent numbness of the nipple occurs in less than 10% of cases, and even that varies with technique and anatomy. In my practice, it’s much lower due to meticulous surgical planning and respect for neurovascular structures.To minimize the risk:
Choose a technique that respects your nerve anatomy &mdash; for example, my Push-Up Lift technique is designed to preserve nipple blood supply and sensation while reshaping the breast.Avoid smoking and ensure good nutritional status before and after surgery &mdash; both play a big role in nerve healing.Follow post-op instructions carefully to avoid swelling or tension on healing tissues.While there is always a small risk, a carefully planned lift &mdash; especially in experienced hands &mdash; balances aesthetic goals with sensory preservation.

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Numbness can happen and expected around nipples, areola, and skin. This is very normal and it is likely to get better over the next several weeks. In rare cases, numbness can be permanent but the chances are very slim.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The breast lift technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scar are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Good morning. Numbness after a breast lift can be due to the type and depth of the incisions, as well as stretching or nerve damage during surgery. The most commonly affected areas are the nipple and the underside of the breast. The risk of permanent numbness is 10–15%. To reduce this risk, choose a board-certified surgeon, consider less invasive techniques, and follow proper postoperative care. Although it can't always be avoided, most cases improve within 6–12 months. To further address these concerns, you can write to us at 829-554-6062.

Permanent numbness after surgery - can it be prevented?

Answers (6)

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: NUMBNESS AFTER A BREAST LIFT

Answer: NUMBNESS AFTER A BREAST LIFT

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Permanent numbness after surgery - can it be prevented?

Answers (6)

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: NUMBNESS AFTER A BREAST LIFT

Answer: NUMBNESS AFTER A BREAST LIFT

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.