Questions & Answers
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Frequently asked questions
Will my reconstructed breast feel the same as before?
Not automatically. Standard breast reconstruction often restores shape, but not sensation. With advanced techniques aimed at nerve repair, meaningful sensation can often be regained.
Why is breast sensation important?
Because sensation is what makes the breast feel like part of your body again. It influences comfort, body awareness, intimacy, and daily activities such as sports or touch.
What happens to sensation after mastectomy?
During mastectomy, nerves are cut. This can lead to numbness, altered sensations, or phantom feelings. Without nerve reconstruction, these changes often persist long-term.
Can sensation be restored during breast reconstruction?
Yes, in selected patients. By reconnecting nerves during autologous (own tissue) breast reconstruction, it is possible to restore protective and sometimes more refined sensation.
What does “loss of sensation” actually feel like?
Many women describe a reconstructed breast without sensation as numb, foreign, or disconnected from their body. It may look natural, but it does not feel like it belongs to them.
Can sensation really be restored in a reconstructed breast?
Yes, in selected cases. With innervated autologous breast reconstruction, nerves from the transplanted tissue can be connected to chest wall nerves, allowing sensory recovery over time.
Is implant-based reconstruction different in terms of sensation?
Yes. Implant-based reconstructions generally result in limited or absent sensation because no living tissue or nerves are transferred. A nerve reconstruction can be performed also in breast reconstruction with implants: in this case the target is the nipple-areola complex.
Is sensation important if I am “only” concerned about appearance?
Many women initially focus on appearance, but later realize that sensation plays a crucial role in comfort, embodiment, intimacy, and quality of life.
What about nipple sensation?
Nipple sensation is complex. Even with nerve reconstruction, full nipple sensation cannot always be restored, but some sensitivity may return depending on the surgical approach.rehabilitation plays also an important role.
How do I know if I am a good candidate?
A personalized consultation is essential. Every woman’s anatomy, cancer treatment, and expectations are different.
Is sensation something I should ask my surgeon about?
Absolutely. Sensation is a fundamental part of bodily integrity and should be part of informed decision-making.
Does restoring sensation affect how the breast looks?
No. Sensory restoration is integrated into the reconstruction and does not compromise the aesthetic result. It enhances the overall outcome by adding a functional dimension.
How long does it take for sensation to return?
How long does it take for sensation to return?
Nerve regeneration is slow. Sensation may start to return after several months and can continue to improve for up to five years after surgery.
What is the ultimate goal of sensory breast reconstruction?
A breast that does not constantly demand attention—one that feels natural, familiar, and truly yours
Will my reconstructed breast have feeling again?
This is one of the most important and most frequently asked questions. Sensation can return after breast reconstruction, but it depends on the type of reconstruction and whether nerve reconstruction (reinnervation) is performed.
Is numbness normal after mastectomy and reconstruction?
Yes. During mastectomy, nerves are cut. Without specific techniques to reconnect them, numbness is expected and often permanent.
Will the sensation feel “normal” again?
Sensation may not be exactly the same as before, but many women experience meaningful, protective, and sometimes even erogenous sensation. Most importantly, the breast can start to feel like part of their body again.
Is nerve reconstruction always possible?
No. It depends on the type of mastectomy, availability of suitable nerves, previous surgery or radiotherapy, and individual anatomy.
Does restoring sensation increase surgical risk?
When performed by experienced microsurgeons, nerve coaptation adds no risk but requires expertise and careful patient selection.
Can sensation help prevent injuries?
Yes. Protective sensation allows women to notice pressure, heat, or trauma, reducing the risk of burns or unnoticed injuries.
Is sensory reconstruction available everywhere?
No. It requires specialized training and experience and is currently offered in only a limited number of centers.
Why isn’t sensation discussed more often?
Historically, breast reconstruction focused on survival and appearance. Only recently has quality of life and embodiment received the attention it deserves.
What should I take home from this?
Breast reconstruction is not only about how you look, but also about how you feel — physically and emotionally.