Following any cosmetic breast surgery—whether breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction—numbness and loss of sensation of the nipple or certain areas of the breast is normal. This is usually a temporary side effect of surgery and it will slowly resolve throughout the recovery and healing process. Still, this can be a frustrating side effect and can even last several months in some cases. Luckily, there are ways to help increase breast sensitivity after breast augmentation New York City.
#1: Massage
After breast surgery, Dr. Blyer will likely show patients and recommend massaging their breasts gently. This helps the implant settle nicely, but it also helps “wake up” the nerves damaged during surgery, which are causing the loss of sensation. The massages should be gentle so as not to damage any of the healing structures.
#2: Time
Loss of nipple or breast sensation following surgery is rarely permanent. Most patients feel it fully return within three months of surgery. Additionally, occasionally, hypersensitivity can occur as the nerves heal. Therefore, patients should be gentle when doing anything to aid in regaining or improving sensitivity post-surgery.
#3: Use Pain Medication Sparingly
Patients commonly take prescription pain medications after surgery. Normally, they discontinue their use within one week. Over-the-counter medications can be used to manage pain and discomfort from then on. However, pain medications will help reduce any sensations you may otherwise experience in your breasts. Use the medications as little as possible and stop using them as soon as possible after surgery.
#4: Bring Up Your Concerns Before Surgery
While permanent sensation loss is very rare, for patient especially worried about it, bringing it up during the initial consultation is highly recommended. This allows Dr. B to alter his surgical plan (if possible and necessary) to try and preserve the integrity of the nerves in the breasts and nipples. However, in some cases, some loss of sensation is unavoidable, but this gives Dr. B the chance to fully discuss this with you. Understanding the loss in sensation you can expect and may experience can help patients relax and rest during recovery.
#5: Follow Post-Op Instructions
Dr. Blyer provides patients with instructions after breast surgery such as avoiding strenuous activities and not lifting anything over five pounds. Not only does this help protect the integrity of the incisions and reduce pain, but it also prevents putting more strain on stretched or healing nerves. Thus, allowing them to heal faster and well.
Conclusion
Dr. Blyer understands that breast augmentation New York City patients may have concerns about breast sensitivity following breast surgery. He works to create custom surgical plans that allow patients to feel more at peace during the process. Breast augmentation rarely causes long term issues with breast or nipple sensitivity, but Dr. B can discuss options—such as incision placement—that can help limit and predict the possibility of disruptive sensation loss. To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 631-232-2636. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, or Price Simulator.
