Will Your Reconstructed Breasts Feel The Same As Before A Mastectomy?

After a mastectomy, many women want their breasts to look and feel as natural as possible. Reconstruction can restore shape and size, but it’s normal to wonder how much sensation will return. So, will your reconstructed breasts feel the same as before? 

In most cases, they won’t feel exactly the same. A mastectomy removes breast tissue and cuts many of the nerves that provide feeling, so the area is often numb at first. Some feeling may return slowly over time. 

Dr. Alex Mesbahi, a board-certified plastic surgeon at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery, helps women rebuild their confidence after cancer treatment. He is proud to offer reconstructive and cosmetic surgery in Washington, D.C., and McLean, VA. Call today to schedule a private consultation. 

Understanding breast reconstruction surgery 

Breast reconstruction surgery rebuilds the shape and size of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can also repair the chest after an injury or a condition present from birth. Reconstruction can begin at the same time as a mastectomy or be delayed until after other cancer treatments are finished. 

There are two main approaches. Implant placement uses a saline or silicone implant, often after a tissue expander has slowly stretched the skin to make room. A flap procedure uses skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from another part of your body, such as the abdomen or back, to create a new breast. Dr. Mesbahi will recommend the option that can best fit your body, health, and treatment plan. 

Will your breasts feel the same afterward? 

Most women notice a change in breast sensation after surgery. Because the nerves in the breast are cut during a mastectomy, the skin may feel numb or tingly at first. Over the next several months to a few years, some feeling often returns, though it usually isn’t the same as before. 

Several factors affect how your new breasts will feel:  

• Type of reconstruction: A flap procedure uses your own tissue, so the breast often feels warm and soft. With implant placement, the breast often feels firmer. 
• Type of mastectomy: Skin-sparing or nipple-sparing techniques may help preserve more of your natural feeling. 
• Time: Nerves heal slowly, so changes in breast sensation can continue for a year or longer. 

Dr. Mesbahi will talk with you about realistic expectations before surgery so you know what to expect. 

How the reconstruction process works 

Reconstruction is often done in stages. The first stage may involve a flap procedure or placing a tissue expander. Later visits may include implant placement or small refinements. 

After surgery, your incisions will be bandaged, and you’ll wear a surgical bra for support. A small drain may be placed to remove extra fluid for the first few weeks. Bruising and swelling usually last 1 – 2 weeks and then fade gradually. 

As with any cosmetic surgery in Washington, D.C., or McLean, VA, you’ll have follow-up visits so Dr. Mesbahi can check your healing. After recovery, regular breast exams and mammograms remain important for your long-term health. 

Talk with Dr. Mesbahi about your options 

Breast reconstruction surgery can help you feel more like yourself after cancer treatment. While breast sensation may not return fully, many women are happy with how natural their results look and feel. At Mesbahi Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi offers a compassionate approach to breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery in Washington, D.C. and McLean, VA. Call today to book your consultation.