If I removed my implants will this nipple sensitivity/pain go away?

While my answer to your question is short; I hope you will find it hopeful.  Most likely the sensitivity and pain you are experiencing will go away if your implants were removed or reduced in size.  However, there is no guarantee that either of these options will alleviate your pain in full or at all.  Thank you for your question.

A breast implant removal (explanting) can be done with possible other procedures such as lifting, fat transfer etc so that the breasts can be more youthful looking. They can be removed if you have Breast Implant Illness, fatigue or pain that cannot be controlled or alleviated. If you have a fluid collection or serum, you should see a surgeon ASAP to get a biopsy and the fluid tested.
The breast lift/mastopexy addresses the sagginess of the breast by removing excess skin and the breast augmentation with fat can add volume to the breast.  There are several different types of lifting including many lifts that do not have many scars. This does not necessarily mean that you need lifting though as it depends what size breast implant you want and your examination so it is not always needed.I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of both ASPS & ASAPS and has plenty of experience in breast augmentation, implant removal, & lifting surgery. Go over your concerns with them and make sure above all, you walk out of there with several options and an idea of the pros and cons to each of them as well as realistic expectations. I hope this helps and wish you all the best in your surgery and event. If it does, please take a moment to up vote this answer on the “respond” button on the top right.  

Thank you for sharing your question.  Unfortunately there is no way to say with any certainty that your sensitivity will improve.  It would be the next best step, however, if the sensitivity is impairing your quality of life. 

The effect of explantation on nerve sensitivity or pain is not predictable. I would be reluctant to suggest this unless the problem were truly unbearable. Discuss your full range of options including medications or injections before considering surgery. 

Hi!
Good question! Short answer is maybe. Large implants, or some access incisions are more likely to cause nerve problems. Removing or replacing your implants with smaller ones may help the problem, but there are no guarantees, as some types of nerve sensitivity are not reversible.
All the best

Some studies have concluded that placing the implant via a periareolar incision increases the risk factor for nerve disruption and an alteration in sensation.  An implant diameter larger than the patient's breast diameter can also lead to nipple sensitivity. Although the exact reason is unknown, the nerves have been compromised with the insertion of the implant in the pocket.  Ask your PS what he/she recommends. Sometime de-sensitizing the nipples through massage with various fabrics or wearing silicone nipple covers helps the nerve(s) to settle.

Hi sergio774, 
Thank you for the question. 
Persistent pain and nipple hypersensitivity may be related to the nerve injury during the surgery or large implants stretching the nerves.  Exchanging the implants for smaller ones or removing the implants may improve the symptoms but it's not guaranteed.  Desensitization therapy is another non-surgical option.  
I would seek an in-person evaluation by the plastic surgeon, in order to discuss your concerns.

 I hope this helps.
Best regards, Dr. Karanetz

It is impossible to tell you if the sensitivity/pain will go away with removal of your implants.  The technique I recommend is explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method.  The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained, if not injure during your previous surgery.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired. Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

I would say if you have exhausted all your options then removing them would be a viable option.  You would have to know that removing your implants may not resolve the nipple hypersensitivity but the common reason why patients get the hypersensitivity is because the nerves are under stress from the stretching of the tissues.The one option I would look at would be to see an OT (occupational therapist) for de-sensitization exercises which may help resolve this.Hope that helps.

Dear sergio7774,
it is hard to tell for sure. If you think that your implants are causing you pain, then you have an option to remove them. 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