With regard to loss of sensation to the breasts and nipple areolar complex, this depends largely on the placement of the incision. Overly large implants may also contribute to loss of sensation as they cause stretching of the nerves (neuropraxia). Incisions around or at the nipple areolar will also lead to loss of sensation.
In my practice, I usually site my incision in the breast fold, hence the scar is well hidden and the risk of numbness will be low. However, it must be noted that there are numerous side effects or complications that can be associated with breast implant surgery. While uncommon if done by a well-trained board-certified plastic surgeon, you should be well-informed about this before you commit to any surgery.
With the advances in methods of fat preparation, autologous structural fat grafting (using your own body fat) can now be done reliably in place of silicone implants. I have had quite a few patients who are starting to see the merits of this technique as your own fats are harvested from either the tummy or thighs and prepared before it is re-injected into the breasts for augmentation. This would reduce any risk of numbness to the nipple-areolar complex as there will be no incisions. The caveat for this technique is that patients must have sufficient donor sites for fat harvest.
Breast augmentation using silicone implants or structural fat grafting are complex procedures that can be very satisfying if performed correctly and safely. We are able to use sizers and also 3D simulation to estimate the different breast volumes and use implants of different sizes and projection. This will help to create the necessary fullness, cleavage and correct the asymmetry. Please make an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon if you are keen to find out more.
I hope I have answered your queries. Have a great week ahead!
Dr. Terence Goh
Plastic Surgeon
The information provided is purely for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice or create any physician/patient relationship. Results may vary between individuals.
