Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Question

I had a breastlift with small 240 cc implants 10 months ago , since then one of my nipples is numb but has gotten erect more every time although not like the other which was always normal., I feel nothing but it gets erect , does this mean that I will recover sensitivity or it's different nerves working separate

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

No they are not.  There is overlap and dual innervation.  Many stimuli can cause erection.  However, I would still take it as an encouraging sign that you will eventually gain some sensation if not completely.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The sensory nerves to the nipple are very sensitive especially to stretching caused by the implant which I believe is the most common cause for numbness rather than being cut. Fortunately as the tissues soften, the sensation often returns with in the first year. If your nipples can become erect then in my experience you will have more of a chance to regain sensation.Nipple erogenous sensation recovery and the rest of the skin of the breast where you describe numbness are from different nerves. Although it is highly likely that you may not have return of sensation, the good news is the vast majority of patients will have return of sensation within the first year after breast augmentation.#breastaugmentation#numbness

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

It is different nerves, but the fact that your nipple gets erect is a really positive sign that you will eventually regain sensation. It can just take a long time for the nerves to regenerate. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The thoughts on the mechanism of nipple erection are not completely understood, but are largely governed by a person's autonomic nervous system, which is a different system then that for sensation.  Temporary changes in a nipple's sensation after surgery are not uncommon, and are usually the result of nerve irritation through stretch.  Occasionally this numbness may be permanent.  If it has been 10 months without improvement in sensation,your residual numbness will likely not improve completely.

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, if your nipples still react, the numbness should resolve with time.  I know it has already been 10 months, but nerves sometimes take a long time to recover.  Hang in there.

Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answers (6)

Answer: Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answer: Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answer: Nerves to Nipple after Breast Aumentation

Answer: Nerves to Nipple after Breast Aumentation

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Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answers (6)

Answer: Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answer: Are nipple sensitivity and erection controlled by the same nerves ?

Answer: Nerves to Nipple after Breast Aumentation

Answer: Nerves to Nipple after Breast Aumentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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