9 months post-op, is there something I can do to speed nipple sensation restoration?

Question

Hello I had a lift with implants in October of 2022 and then I went down to a smaller implant size in October 2023. Prior to surgery I had extremely sensitive nipples and I'd hoped to keep it that way. I have a tiny bit of feeling on one side but the other hasn't returned. Nonetheless the feeling I do have on the one side is minimal. Is there something I can do to speed restoration? Will they even be restored at all? I love my look but this part is difficult.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear RSProfile862479,
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. I imagine your numbness is just temporary although I would have to examine you.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

It’s common for nipple sensation to be affected after breast surgery, and it can take time for the nerves to heal. While it varies from person to person, it’s possible that some sensation could return over time, although it may not return fully to the pre-surgery levels.
Here are a few things that might help speed up restoration:
1.	Massage: Gently massaging the nipple and surrounding areas may help stimulate the nerves. It’s essential to be gentle to avoid damaging the healing tissue.
2.	Nerve Stimulation Treatments: Some patients benefit from nerve stimulation therapies like microcurrent therapy, which can help promote nerve regeneration.
3.	Vitamin Supplements: Certain vitamins, such as Vitamin B12 and Alpha-Lipoic Acid, are believed to support nerve healing. However, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before starting any supplements.
4.	Patience: Nerve recovery can be a slow process. It's often a year or more before full sensation returns, if it does. If the nerves have been stretched or damaged during surgery, they may not regenerate fully, but minor sensations may gradually improve.
5.	Consult Your Surgeon: It’s important to talk to your surgeon about your concerns. They can give you specific recommend treatments that may be helpful in your particular case.
Overall, while it can be discouraging, there is hope that sensation can improve, but it’s difficult to predict exactly how much will return. Keep your surgeon involved and be patient with the healing process!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

There is nothing specific to speed the return of sensation, if it does return. It can take up to a year for the damaged nerves to repair and grow. If you are still numb at a year, you will probably stay numb.

9 months post-op, is there something I can do to speed nipple sensation restoration?

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9 months post-op, is there something I can do to speed nipple sensation restoration?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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