Why Do Women Lose Breast Sensation After Mastectomy?

There are many reasons why women living in Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX choose to undergo a mastectomy. They may have been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer or have been placed in a high-risk category. Either way, there are some complications that come with this life-saving procedure. It is normal to experience numbness in the chest area following a mastectomy.

Loss of sensation in the breast can be devastating for people who have already undergone a traumatic experience due to cancer. At Ellsworth Plastic Surgery, we find that this topic is not addressed nearly enough. Dr. Warren Ellsworth is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in regaining sensation after mastectomy. Our team can help you improve both your confidence and appearance.

Learn about our treatment options by calling a member of our team. Our clinic offers autologous breast reconstruction surgery as well as the advanced Resensation® technique. Read about these advanced treatment options below.

Mastectomy explained

A mastectomy is the permanent surgical removal of the breast tissue. This procedure is designed for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. It is considered major surgery and is usually performed while under the care of a cancer team. While there are many health benefits to getting a mastectomy, there is one major downside. Nerves are severed in the process, which means patients will experience a loss of breast sensation after mastectomy.

Autologous breast reconstruction surgery

Autologous breast reconstruction uses living tissue, such as skin and fat from another part of your body, to re-form the breast. This option is chosen in place of breast implants, which are made from medical-grade saline or silicone materials. Ellsworth Plastic Surgery can recommend techniques for autologous breast reconstruction surgery based on your individual health and the tissue in your body.

Regaining sensation after mastectomy

While most clinics focus on restoring the appearance of your breasts, we also emphasize the importance of sensation. The great news is that it is possible to apply nerve grafting techniques so patients can feel like themselves again. If you are concerned about breast sensation after mastectomy in Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX, Dr. Ellsworth may recommend Resensation. It is an additional step that can be performed during autologous breast reconstruction surgery.

Benefits of Resensation include:

• Improve body image: Regaining sensation after mastectomy can restore your sense of femininity.
• Boost your quality of life: Numb breast tissue can negatively impact intimate moments and physical touch.
• Enhance emotional health: The opportunity to restore sensation can help you move on from the pain associated with breast cancer.

Discover Resensation

Breast cancer treatment, such as mastectomy, can affect how you perceive your own body. Our surgical solutions provide women with natural-looking results. Not only that, but we can also combat numbness and loss of sensation in the breast. If you live in Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX, and want to discuss your options, meet with Dr. Warren Ellsworth at Ellsworth Plastic Surgery. Dr. Ellsworth is a known expert in regaining breast sensation after mastectomy.