My nipples have stretched and gone puffy/swollen and numb after breast augmentation. Will they go back to normal?

Numbness of the skin on the breast under the areola is not uncommon after breast augmentation. This is usually a temporary phenominon that results from tissue swelling and induration arround the nerve that supplies this area. The lateral intercostal nerves supply sensation to the breast skin in the region that you are describing. These nerves exit the lateral chest wall to intervate overlying skin and the breast implant may place tension on the nerve. Hypersensitivity of the skin is most commonly decribed as a result of this added tension on the nerve. This is a good sign as the nerve is intact but overly stimulated. Hypersensitivity usually resolves within 6-12 weeks after surgery. Hyposensitivity or lack of sensation also may result from streching the nerve. This may cause a temporary numbness in the lower pole of the breast. The nerve function typically returns to normal over time, however this may take 6-12 months. Tingling sensation (pins and needles) may occur as the nerve recovers. This is a good sign. Very large implants have a higher chance of streching these nerves potentially leading to permanent numbness.

All patients have swelling after breast augmentation at only one week since the procedure, so I would say that the swelling and puffiness will likely get better.  The nipples are often more "erect" after breast augmentation. It is very common to have some degree of numbness after the procedure and that part can take time to get better. Some patients experience the opposite and have tingling and increased sensitivity of the nipples after breast augmentation. The areola (colored circular portion of skin around the nipple) often and usually will get some degree larger in diameter after breast augmentation. As the skin stretches and expands to accommodate the new implant, this "skin" of the areola will also stretch and expand to variable degrees depending on the size it was before and the size of the implant that was placed.  I hope this helps!

Numbness, swelling, and changes in size can occur due to the surgical process. In many cases, sensation and appearance may gradually return to normal as your body heals. However, it's important to discuss these changes with your surgeon during your follow-up appointments to ensure everything is progressing as expected. They can provide you with more specific guidance based on your individual situation.