How to treat a nipple that will not get hard after breast reduction?

Question

I am quite a few months into my breast reduction healing (I had it back in March). The scarring is coming along, but my right nipple will not get hard anymore. It has not lost any sensation, it just won't perk out like the other. Is there anything I can do about this?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

For the vast majority of patients, breast reduction will not cause a loss of feeling in the nipple or areola. A lot of this is technique and surgeon dependent.  Occasionally, it can take 1-2 years for sensitivity to return.  Discuss your concerns with your PS.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. I am glad your surgery went well and sorry to hear about your problem. There can be some changes to nipple sensation and function from reduction surgery and this is one of the risks. At this point, I would advise you to give it some more time. Nerve growth is slow and it may take over a year to improve. In the long run, if it does not improve, there may not be much that can be done, unfortunately. Hope this helps!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Megan Jack, MD · Answer

I'm glad to hear you are recovering well after surgery!  Changes to nipple sensation and function are a known risk of breast surgery--especially lifts and/or reductions.  It's best to give it more time to see if your function recovers--it can take upwards of a year for the nerves to regain normal function if they are going to.  Sometimes these changes can be permanent unfortunately.  The good news is you still have sensation!  Be patient with your body and give it time to heal.  Best of luck!

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

First of all, congratulations on your breast reduction, abby5831!
It’s normal to experience nipple sensation changes after your breast reduction since your nerves have been injured. It will take some time for the nerves to recover, around six months to one year post-op. 
Give it some more time to heal and recover. For any other concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon.
Best of luck!

How to treat a nipple that will not get hard after breast reduction?

Answers (4)

Answer: Nipple hardness

Answer: Nipple hardness

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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How to treat a nipple that will not get hard after breast reduction?

Answers (4)

Answer: Nipple hardness

Answer: Nipple hardness

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.