Very Sensitive Nipples 3 Years After Breast Augmentation?

Thank you for your question. Hypersensitivity to the nipple or other breast regions is normal after surgery. The nerves may have been stretched and transiently down for the count. As they wake up, they want to let you know they are still there by over signalling their presence. Hence very sensitive nipples. Things typically do resolve with time. In the meantime, you can take two approaches. Compression or tape to minimize friction on the nipples. The other approach could be desensitization with over stimulation (e.g. vibration).Since this has also started years after your augmentation, I do not think it is related to the implants or the fact that they are silicone.  I would revisit with your plastic surgeon.

Hello! Thank you for your question! Your symptoms sound like your
nerves regenerating. 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. Re-educating your nerves to these areas by using different
textures when showering and putting on lotion often helps.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.

It is unlikely your silicone implants are the direct cause of your increased nipple sensitivity but there are several issues here to be addressed. Sudden appearance of dry chaffed nipples could be a sign of a more serious underlying disease such as Paget's disease and should be evaluated by an experienced profeesional. Other causes I have observed include the possibility of nerve irritation occuring with repetitive motion such as painting a room. Also I had one patient who' sudden increase in sensitivity heralded her being pregnant. Weight gain is associated with increased tenderness.  As you can see there are many potential causes and you should see your physician for an evaluation including the possiblity of imaging or biopsy.

It is unlikely that the recent sensitivity changes you've seen are a result of your surgery.  Temparary changes after a breast augmentation are relatively common.  Some patients become more sensitive, some patients claim to be less sensitive.  Permanent sensory changes are rare.  Over the years I have seen a handful of patients who have developed similiar symptoms to yours.  For some unknown reason they developed what appeared to be a rash of one or both areolae years after surgery.  Their symptoms cleared up with a topical steroid.  Your best bet is to be evaluated by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon in your area. 

Nipple sensation can be affected by breast augmentation but this is usually in the early postoperative period.  Sensation can be decreased (more common) or increased.

The symptoms you describe with dryness, pain, and peeling do not seem to be related to the breast augmentation.  This may be due to a skin disease or sensitivity to fabrics, chemicals, or environmental exposure.

This is something that you may want to have your PCP or a dermatologist look at to determine if something can be done to help improve your symptoms.