Will nipples still get stimulated and hard after breast augmentation? I'm worried they will be flat.

Question

My nipples are not inverted but simply flat until stimulated. If I get breast augmentation (I'm considering this due to being BRCA2) will my nipples be able to get hard or simulated during sex? I'm worried they won't?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Nipple characteristics after the initial healing phase following breast augmentation are typically the same. A small percentage of patients have longstanding pain, numbness, or alteration in sensitivity. A small percentage of patients may lose sensation, but most of the time this is temporary. In fact, less than 5% of patients lose nipple sensitivity after breast augmentation. Some of the risk of losing sensitivity depends upon surgical technique.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast augmentation frequently results in some numbness for a short period after the procedure that resolves in most all patients. Nipple stimulation usually returns to normal. However, if you are having your breast tissue removed related to BRCA2 and then breast reconstruction afterward, it is unlikely you would recover nipple sensation. These are two very different procedures. You need to make sure to discuss thoroughly with your surgeon before to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person evaluation by a plastic surgeon to be measured and discuss your goals. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of former patients with similar measurements. My patients tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what is right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Nipple sensation after breast augmentation is almost always maintained, especially if the periaerola incision is avoided. However, with you mentioning BRCA2, I think you may be considering nipple sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction. Nipple sensation is almost always lost with this procedure but the procedure can be life saving. Discuss all your options with your surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Rebecca813,
numbness can occur after surgery. 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. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Will nipples still get stimulated and hard after breast augmentation? I'm worried they will be flat.

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Answer: Post surgery nipple sensation

Answer: Post surgery nipple sensation

Answer: Nipple sensitivity

Answer: Nipple sensitivity

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Will nipples still get stimulated and hard after breast augmentation? I'm worried they will be flat.

Answers (7)

Answer: Post surgery nipple sensation

Answer: Post surgery nipple sensation

Answer: Nipple sensitivity

Answer: Nipple sensitivity

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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