NIPPLE SENSATION AFTER BREAST SURGERY IN ORANGE COUNTY

“Will my nipple sensation change after surgery? This is a common question asked by my Orange County patients seeking breast augmentation.

Unfortunately, there is no way to know how your nipple sensitivity will change after augmentation. I tell my patients you have an equal chance of becoming more sensitive than less sensitive.

Contrary to popular belief, the addition of a breast lift does not increase the risk of nipple sensory change. In other words, the risk for nipple sensory change is the same for breast augmentation with or without a lift.

The chance of decreased or absent nipple sensation, however, will increase with a larger implant. The main nerve which gives sensation to the nipple comes from the lateral (outer) side of the chest muscle and travels under the breast until it reaches the nipple. A large implant will, therefore, have a higher chance of putting pressure and stretching this nerve. A larger than recommended breast implant may cause stretching and sagging of the skin, lead to enlargement of the areola, and increase the chance of nipple numbness.

It is important to be patient. Many of the unusual sensations in the nipple and breast will improve with time. It may take up to one year for the breast to settle and for the nerves to reach equilibrium.

Michael A. Jazayeri, M.D. is a board certified plastic surgeon with over 10 years of experience. His office is located in Santa Ana, California. To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call (714) 834-0101.