After a breast augmentation and areola size reduction, will your nipples still get erect post op?

Question

I’ve been looking into having my breast augmentation and areola reduction. But I’ve heard of nipples staying soft and not getting erect after stimulation. I was wondering how long this effect lasts, and if it could be permanent.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

Studies say 95% of patients nipple sensation will return to normal several months after surgery. That does, of course, mean there will be a small percentage of patient who have permanent issues. As always, be sure to research who performs your surgery to ensure the best likelihood of a positive result.

Badar Jan, MD · Answer

An important question. Typically there is no change in nipple sensation or response to stimulation after a breast augmentation. Areolar reduction alone also should not change the sensation or erection of the nipple.

Best wishes,

Dr. Jan

Best wishes,

Dr. Jan

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  In the majority of instances all sensation and physical stimulation ability will return to normal after a breast augmentation and/or areolar reduction.  Hope this helps.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. yes but there is a small 1-2% chance of losing sensation permanently. This is thought to be caused by the creation of the space for the implant to be placed and not related to the location of the incision. If you don't have sensation after surgery it does not mean you will not recover it over time. If you have sensation after surgery you should be fine. You should also be aware that it is not uncommon for nipples to be uncomfortably sensitive for after breast augmentation ( hypersensitive ). Fortunately, this typically goes away within the first 2 months after surgery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ohmaxieee,
Numbness is very common. It depends on the operation but often times sensation can return in a couple of weeks, a year, or not at all. Nipple sensation itself is very important and can sometimes be lost with breast surgery. This is often mentioned in the risks of the consent process. 
If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically patients will have normal sensation and stimulation reactions once healed from surgery.  Every surgery carries risk, but loss of nipple sensation and reaction is low.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Karan Chopra, MD · Answer

There is a very low risk of losing Nipple Erection after Breast Augmentation. The theoretical risk is higher as the implant size gets over 550cc's and even then the risk is fairly low.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Most women notice no change with their nipples once the swelling subsides. However, there is a small risk.

After a breast augmentation and areola size reduction, will your nipples still get erect post op?

Answers (8)

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