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MetropolMed

Does Breast Augmentation Cause Loss of Nipple Sensitivity?

Does Breast Augmentation Cause Loss of Nipple Sensitivity?

Free nerve endings are found all over the body and provide us with information about touch, pressure, pain, and temperature.

Are you considering getting breast augmentation but worried about losing nipple sensitivity? You’re not alone! One of the most common questions women ask when contemplating breast augmentation is whether it will affect their nipple sensation. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether there’s any truth to the myth and what factors contribute to potential loss of nipple sensation after surgery. So, let’s set the record straight once and for all – does breast augmentation cause a loss of nipple sensitivity?

Introduction

It’s a common question asked by women considering breast augmentation: will I lose sensation in my nipples? The short answer is, possibly. Here’s a more detailed explanation of why and how this can happen.

When it comes to nipple sensation, there are two main types of nerve fibers that provide sensation: free nerve endings and Pacinian corpuscles. Free nerve endings are found all over the body and provide us with information about touch, pressure, pain, and temperature. Pacinian corpuscles are deeper within the skin and are responsible for sensing vibration.

Breast augmentation surgery involves making an incision in the skin, which can damage both types of nerves. Additionally, the implants themselves can put pressure on the nerves, causing them to become irritated or even to die. This is more likely to happen with submuscular implants (implants that are placed under the chest muscle) than with subglandular implants (implants that are placed behind the breast tissue but before the chest muscle).

If you do experience loss of nipple sensation after breast augmentation surgery, it may be temporary or it may be permanent. It’s also possible that you’ll only lose partial sensation. In most cases, if nipple sensation is lost, it will return within a few months as the nerves regenerate. However, if nerve damage is severe, you may never regain full sensation.

If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, be sure to talk to your surgeon about the risks involved

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that increases the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. During the procedure, implants are placed under the breast tissue or chest muscles. Breast augmentation can be performed using silicone gel implants, saline implants, or fat grafting.

Nipple sensitivity is often affected after breast augmentation surgery. The degree of sensation loss varies from patient topatient, but generally speaking, patients report that their nipples are less sensitive following surgery. There are a few factors that can contribute to this loss of sensation, including:
* The location of the incisions: If the incisions are made around the nipple, this can damage the nerve endings and lead to reduced sensitivity.
* The type of implant used: Silicone gel implants are more likely to cause loss of nipple sensation than saline implants.
* The surgical technique: When fat grafting is used to augment the breasts, there is a higher risk of losing sensation in the nipple area.

If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it is important to discuss with your surgeon the potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure.

Types of Breast Implants

1. Saline Breast Implants

One common type of breast implant is the saline breast implant, which is filled with a sterile saltwater solution. This type of implant is usually used for patients who are seeking a modest increase in breast size. Saline implants can also be used to correct mild cases of asymmetry.

2. Silicone Breast Implants

Another popular type of breast implant is the silicone breast implant, which is filled with a gel-like substance that closely resembles human fat. This type of implant is often used for patients who are looking for a more natural-looking result. Silicone implants are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes, which gives patients more options when it comes to achieving their desired look.

3. Cohesive Gel Breast Implants

Yet another type of breast implant is the cohesive gel breast implant, which is made from a high-strength silicone gel that holds together well. This type of implant is often used for patients who are looking for a very natural look and feel. Cohesive gel implants are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes, which gives patients even more options when it comes to achieving their desired look.

Does breast augmentation cause loss of nipple sensitivity?

It’s a common question we get from patients considering breast augmentation surgery: will I lose nipple sensation after the procedure? The quick answer is that it’s possible, but it’s not very likely. Let’s take a more in-depth look at the issue.

The majority of patients who undergo breast augmentation do not experience any loss of nipple sensation. In fact, many say they have an increase in sensation after their surgery. There are a number of reasons why this might be the case, including the placement of the implants and the type of incision used.

That said, there is a small percentage of patients who do report some loss of sensation in their nipples after breast augmentation. This is usually temporary and resolves itself within a few months. In rare cases, there may be some permanent loss of sensation.

If you’re concerned about losing nipple sensation after your surgery, talk to your surgeon about your options. They can discuss with you the different types of implants and incisions that are available and help you choose the best option for your goals and concerns.

How can I reduce my risk of losing nipple sensation after a breast augmentation procedure?

Loss of nipple sensation after a breast augmentation procedure is a rare but possible complication. There are a few ways you can reduce your risk:

Ask your surgeon to avoid putting the implants in too close to the nerve bundle that supplies sensation to the nipple. This bundle is called the superior hypogastric plexus, and it runs behind the areola.

Make sure your implants are placed below the muscle. Placing them above the muscle can cause more damage to the nerves.

Choose saline implants over silicone gel implants. Silicone gel implants are more likely to cause loss of sensation than saline implants because they require a larger incision.

Don’t smoke cigarettes before or after your surgery. Smoking decreases blood flow and can delay healing. It also increases your risk of infection and other complications.

 

Overall, the evidence suggests that breast augmentation surgery can lead to a reduction in nipple sensation. However, due to the fact that each person may experience different levels of changes, it is important to discuss your expectations with your surgeon prior to undergoing the procedure. Remember, safety should always be top priority and all aspects of a procedure need to be considered carefully before you make any decisions.