Will i still have feeling in my nipples after a breast reduction? my doctor told me he would relocate my nipple when he performs my breast reduction. does this mean i will have reduced feeling in my nipple? will i have any feeling in it at all?

Breast : Breast reduction surgery involves removal of excessive breast tissue and skin, and reshaping of the remaining breast tissue to a cosmetically appealing shape, size, and position. The typical breast reduction reduces the diameter of the areola but leaves your nipple and areola still attached to the underlying breast tissue, so that the nipple continues to receive its blood flow and sensation through your normal breast tissue. The nipple will be in a higher, more appealing position on the breast as the breast tissue is lifted and reshaped. Following a typical breast reduction, approximately 15-20% of women will experience some reduction in nipple sensation as a result of the surgery. The remaining 80-85% of women will experience normal or even increased nipple sensation. In women who have extraordinarily large and long breasts, there is an increased risk that their nipples will not maintain good blood flow using the standard breast reduction techniques. For these women, a free nipple graft may be the best option. This technique actually removes the nipple and replaces it in an appropriate position on the reshaped, repositioned breast. When a free nipple graft is performed, the sensation to the nipple is always either reduced or lost. Occasionally, some sensation may return over time as the nerves grow into the graft. The free nipple graft technique will eliminate your ability to breast feed in the future, as it divides the ducts that bring milk to the nipple. Discuss with your board certified plastic surgeon which technique he/she feels is most appropriate for you. All the best, dr. Skourtis.

It varies: Breast reduction does not equal decreased nipple sensation. However it happens commonly; usually it can remain decreased or improve with time. It may vary as well with the type of reduction done (liposuction, vertical, wise pattern) and where the blood supply to the nipple comes from. Your plastic surgeon can better answer those specific details.

It DEpends: You are entitled to your surgeon's best estimate. This is dependent upon the many factors. Talk to your doctor.