March 2025

Preventing Loss of Feeling
After Breast Augmentation

If you’re considering breast augmentation, you probably have a lot of questions. One that comes up a lot is: “Will I lose nipple sensation after surgery?” It’s a normal thing to wonder about, especially when so much conflicting info is floating around online. Let’s break it down together.

First off, you’re not alone. Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., with over 300,000 women choosing it each year — and the majority of them say they’d do it all over again. But even with those high satisfaction rates, worries about loss of sensation are valid and worth addressing.

How Your Nerves Play A Part

So, here’s what’s really going on: nipple sensation comes from a nerve called the fourth intercostal nerve. It runs from your spine, wraps around your chest, and connects to your nipple-areola area. This nerve can get stretched or irritated during surgery, particularly when implants are placed under the muscle. This might cause temporary changes in sensation — but the key word here is temporary. For most women, things return to normal within about 6 months.

Will My Nipples Lose Sensation After Breast Augmentation

There’s also another nerve in the area called the intercostobrachial nerve, which controls sensation in the upper inner arm and parts of the chest wall. It’s more commonly affected during mastectomies than breast augmentation surgery, but it’s worth mentioning, especially if you’re considering a transaxillary (through the armpit) incision.

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Minimizing Loss of Nipple Sensation

Let’s talk about implant placement and how that plays a role in nipple sensation:

Under the Chest Muscle (Submuscular)

Placing breast implants beneath the pectoral muscle tends to have a lower risk of affecting nipple sensation. The muscle acts as a buffer, offering a protective layer between the implant and the nerves responsible for nipple sensitivity.

Over the Muscle (Subglandular)

Implants placed above the muscle, directly under the breast tissue, might have a slightly higher chance of affecting nerve pathways, which could lead to sensation changes.

Incision Location Matters

Periareolar incisions (around the nipple) in breast augmentation surgery are closer to the nerves supplying the nipple-areola complex, which may raise the risk of sensation changes. Inframammary incisions (in the crease under the breast) and transaxillary incisions (through the underarm) generally avoid direct contact with those nerves, lowering the chance of affecting sensation.

Implant Size

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to sensation. Larger implants can stretch breast tissue and nerves, increasing the likelihood of changes in nipple sensitivity.

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Is there Anything that Can Be Done During The Breast Augmentation Healing Process That Will Help Prevent Loss Of Sensation?

Certainly, there are several strategies and precautions you can take during the healing process to help preserve or enhance nipple sensation:

Choose a Skilled, Experienced Plastic Surgeon

First and foremost, selecting a board-certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon is crucial. A skilled surgeon has a thorough understanding of breast anatomy and a delicate touch, which significantly minimizes the risk of nerve damage.

Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions

Adhering strictly to your surgeon's post-operative care instructions can facilitate healing and prevent complications:

Limit Physical Activity: Initially, avoid any activities that could strain the chest muscles, as excessive movement can increase the risk of nerve irritation.
Wear the Recommended Supportive Garments: Post-surgical bras are designed to support the breast implants and aid in gentle compression, which can ensure that healing occurs more uniformly and safeguard nerve pathways.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can impair circulation and delay healing, potentially affecting nerve recovery and overall sensitivity.

Nerve Regeneration Supplements

Some studies suggest that certain supplements may promote nerve health and recovery, such as vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. Discuss any supplement use with your plastic surgeon's team to ensure they're appropriate for your situation.

Gentle Massage and Desensitization Exercises

Once your surgeon gives the green light, gentle massage, and desensitization exercises can be beneficial for maintaining or improving sensation after breast augmentation. Gentle massage can aid in circulation and nerve stimulation, potentially helping to preserve sensation:

Use Soft Motions: Employ gentle, circular motions around the breast and nipple area. This can help ease any stiffness and improve blood flow, crucial for nerve health.
Consistency Is Key: Regularly applying these massage techniques, as advised by your healthcare provider, can significantly make a difference in maintaining nerve function and sensation.
Choose the Right Products: Use a mild moisturizer to reduce friction during massage. Ingredients like vitamin E can support skin and nerve health.

Desensitization Exercises

Desensitization exercises can help recalibrate the nerves, and enhance your sense of touch:

Texture Exploration: Lightly rub different textures (soft fabric, cotton balls, etc.) over the breast and nipple area. This can stimulate the nerves and assist in the re-establishment of normal sensation.
Temperature Variances: Introduce your skin to various temperatures using warm and cool compresses. Be sure to avoid extremes, as your sensation may still be developing,

Go With An Expert In Plastic Surgery and Breast Augmentation

The Face of Breast Augmentation- D Magazine, Dallas, Texas- Dr. John Burns

The good news? Experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. John Burns, MD, FACS, knows how to navigate these nerves carefully to minimize any risk of long-term changes. This is one of those times where the plastic surgeon you choose really does matter — expertise makes a difference. Dr. Burns has performed thousands of breast augmentations in his 25+ year career in plastic surgery.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the information (or misinformation) out there, that’s okay. It’s normal to have concerns. The important thing is to have an open, honest conversation with a qualified professional who understands your goals and your worries.

At the end of the day, your comfort, confidence, and results are what matter most. If you’re still feeling unsure or have more questions, I’m here to help you sort through it all — no judgment, no pressure, just straightforward, supportive guidance.

You deserve to feel empowered in your decision. Let’s make sure you have the right information to get there.

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