Loss Sensation, Feeling After Breast Augmentation DallasI am 34 and thinking about getting breast implants mostly to even out my chest (one breast is a C-cup, the other is a B-cup).  I want my breasts to look better and more symmetrical, but I am really scared of losing sensation in this area. What I want to know is – Will breast implants cause me to lose sensation in my breasts?  Is there anything I can do to avoid this, or is it inevitable if I undergo breast augmentation? Thanks a lot!

Temporary vs Permanent Sensory Changes After Breast Augmentation

This is a more complicated question than it seems!  The simple answer is: yes temporarily sensation changes are common and yes there are things you can do to avoid this.

Here is a more detailed summary of what we know to be true about sensation changes after augmentation:

  • Temporary nipple/areola sensation changes are common, affecting the majority of patients. Some patients become too sensitive, while the majority are less sensitive.
  • You will know if these changes are permanent after six months.
  • Permanent sensory loss in the nipple/areola is very rare, <1%.
  • Permanent decreased sensitivity of the nipple/areola is uncommon. The rate is somewhere between 2-15%, depending on which study you believe.

What can you do to prevent sensory loss?

  • Larger implants are associated with decreased sensation, but not associated with higher risk of complete loss. Interestingly, woman that are naturally large breasted also have much lower nipple/areola sensitivity. This means that the nerves to the nipple/areola are being injured by breast size, regardless if the breasts were natural or surgically enhanced.
  • Some older studies have shown that periareolar incision has a higher risk for nipple/areola sensory loss, while some studies say there is no difference.
  • There is some evidence that a infra mammary incision will decrease the sensation to the skin of the lower breast.
Bradley A. Hubbard, MD
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
For more information on plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Plastic Surgeon, Bradley A. Hubbard MD in Dallas, Plano, Frisco and surrounding areas schedule a consultation by clicking here or calling 214-370-4813
Source: Realself.com