Can a lower body lift and tummy tuck cause nerve damage resulting in loss of sensation during sex?

Dear DPTAYLOR in Spring,

Thank you for your thoughtful question regarding the potential for nerve damage and loss of sensation during sexual activity following a lower body lift and tummy tuck. It's important to address such concerns when considering the implications of major surgical procedures.

Rare Occurrence of Nerve Damage Affecting Sensation During Sex:

While any surgical procedure carries some risk, the specific complication of losing sensation during sex as a result of a lower body lift is extremely rare and not commonly noted in medical literature.
The nerves responsible for sexual sensation are located deeper than the typical dissection area of a lower body lift, thus they are generally not affected during the surgery.
Known Nerve Impacts:

It is more common for nerves affecting the skin in the lower abdomen and outer thighs to be impacted. This can result in numbness in the area above the pubic region to below the belly button, as well as in the outer thigh area.
Follow-Up and Specialist Consultation:

If you have concerns about nerve damage, it is crucial to follow up with your plastic surgeon for a detailed evaluation.
Additionally, consulting a urologist might be beneficial, especially if you believe the surgery has impacted your sexual function.
In conclusion, while the risk of experiencing nerve damage affecting sexual sensation from a lower body lift and tummy tuck is very low, it's important to monitor your recovery closely and seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

I hope this information provides some clarity and reassurance regarding your concerns. Wishing you a smooth recovery and good health.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Tummy tucks and body lift diminish sensation in lower abdomen but not in genitals.  Nerves that carry sensations from genitals are located far away from areas that are addressed during tummy tucks.

Loss of sexual sensation after lower lift has  been described.  It turns out the a great deal of the skin incisions occur around the vagina.  This can distort  the normal anatomy. Please see a specialist (gynecologist) who can rule out other forms of sexual dysfunction (hornonal etc).  It has been my experience that this type of complication resolves with time