When considering any type of breast surgery, whether it’s breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift, a common question among patients revolves around changes to breast sensitivity. It’s a valid concern since your breasts are a vital part of your sensory and emotional experiences. The good news is that for most women, breast sensitivity after cosmetic surgery is not only preserved but often returns to normal as the breasts heal.

How Does Breast Surgery Impact Sensitivity?

Initially, it is normal to experience some degree of numbness or changes in sensation post-surgery. This typically occurs because the surgical procedures can involve cutting through breast tissue and nerves. However, nerves are remarkably resilient and can often regenerate over time.

For many patients, any loss of sensation is usually temporary. Nerves in the breast will begin to regenerate slowly and adapt to the changes in the tissue. Most women find that sensitivity returns to near normal within a few months, although it can take up to a year or more in some cases.

Factors that can influence nerve recovery:

• Type of Surgery: The extent of the surgery can affect how nerves recover. For example, smaller incisions used in breast augmentation (especially under the muscle) may result in less sensory disruption compared to more extensive surgeries like breast reduction or breast lift.
• Surgical Technique: Surgeons who use techniques that avoid excessive trauma to nerve pathways tend to preserve sensation better.
• Individual Healing: Everyone’s body is different, and so is their healing process. Some may regain sensation quicker than others.

Maximizing Positive Outcomes

Our team of renowned plastic surgeons offers some advice for avoiding major changes in breast sensitivity:

• Choose the Right Surgeon: Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in breast surgeries is crucial. These professionals are skilled in techniques that minimize nerve damage and preserve breast function.
• Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon’s recovery plan is essential for healing. This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up visits, and properly caring for incisions.
• Be Patient: Recovery and the return of sensation take time. It’s important to have realistic expectations and patience as your body adapts and heals.

Gain Renewed Confidence in Your Body without Losing Sensitivity

At the Plastic Surgery Group, we prioritize your well-being and aesthetic goals. Our patients often report high satisfaction with their surgical outcomes, including maintained or restored breast sensitivity. By employing advanced surgical techniques and ensuring meticulous care, we strive to maintain the integrity of nerve pathways as much as possible.

If you have concerns about breast sensitivity or any other aspects of breast surgery, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons specializing in cosmetic breast procedures. Please call (604) 589-6021 today.

OUR FRASER VALLEY SERVICE AREAS INCLUDE SURREY, LANGLEY, ABBOTSFORD, CHILLIWACK, COQUITLAM, PORT MOODY, PORT COQUITLAM, PITT MEADOWS AND MISSION, BC.