Reduction mammaplasty improves breast sensibility

The belief that breast hypesthesia is an expected consequence of reduction mammaplasty is based on past reports that failed to objectively quantify breast sensibility. Forty-five women undergoing reduction mammaplasty by one plastic surgeon using a single operative technique were followed prospectively for change in breast sensation. Pressure threshold measurements were taken preoperatively and at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively, by using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. Areas tested included the nipple, four points on the areola, and four points 1 cm from the areola on the breast skin. The data were nonparametric and were analyzed by using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. For all areas tested, sensation significantly improved from preoperatively to 2 weeks (i.e., nipple: 33.1 versus 29.3, p<0.0004) and again from 2 to 6 weeks (i.e., nipple: 29.3 versus 19.3, p<0.002). Relief of chronic nerve traction injury is conjectured as the reason for sensibility improvement. Numb nipples persisted in 2 percent of breasts at 6 weeks.