How is Nipple Sensitivity After Breast Reduction?

Hello! Thank you for your question!  With that large of a breast reduction that it sounds like you will have, it is not uncommon to have some changes in your sensation.  Consideration for a free nipple graft should be discussed.   Breast procedures such as the
breast augmentation and breast lift/reduction certainly result in a more
shapely,
perky, and fuller appearance of your breasts. With any breast procedure
there is a risk, albeit very small, of change in
sensation to the area. The reported rate of sensation changes
(decreased, loss, or increased) is ~7% for lift/reductions and much
smaller for breast augmentation. In my experience, this rate is
reportedly much lower, but is higher when tissue is excised or the
amount of lift that is needed, so the breast reduction procedure has a
slightly greater risk. It can take up to a year for full sensation to return.It is one risk of such a procedure, and
one that you must consider, amongst others, as with any surgical
procedure. You should consult with a plastic surgeon well-trained in
breast procedures who will examine and discuss with you the various
risks and benefits of the procedure(s) and assist you in deciding if
such a procedure will be the right decision for you.

         The breast reduction
technique that you describe is utilized for extremely large breasts with severe
breast sag. This procedure involves totally removing the nipple areola
complexes and replacing them as free skin grafts. Unfortunately when this
procedure is utilized the nerves are divided and the nipple no longer has
sensation.

 

         Traditional breast
reduction techniques leave the nipple areola complexes attached to the
underlying breast tissue. In women with significant breast sag, this can put
the blood supply to the nipple areola at risk and potentially cause tissue
loss.

 

         If you’re concerned
about nipple sensation, it’s important to discuss this issue with your plastic
surgeon. Depending on your anatomy, tolerance for risk and aesthetic goals,
your surgeon may have some latitude regarding the choice of breast reduction
technique used. Another approach may be possible that preserves nipple areola
sensation and ultimately meets your aesthetic goals.