Breast Neurotisation Surgery in Singapore
Why Choose Astrid for Breast Neurotisation
- Our plastic surgeons have experience in breast reconstruction and microsurgery, including techniques involving the small nerves that contribute to breast sensation.
- Neurotisation is planned as part of the breast reconstruction process, with the aim of supporting sensory recovery in the reconstructed breast.
What Is Breast Neurotisation?
Breast neurotisation is a nerve reconstruction technique performed as part of breast reconstruction to support the recovery of sensation in the reconstructed breast. Depending on the type of mastectomy and reconstruction, this may include sensation in the breast or chest skin and the nipple-areola complex.
It involves connecting sensory nerves in or around the reconstructed breast to nerves in the chest, creating a pathway through which nerve fibres can regenerate over time.
Why Can Breast Sensation Change After Mastectomy?
During a mastectomy, nerves that provide sensation to the breast may be cut or disrupted as breast tissue is removed. As a result, the reconstructed breast may initially feel numb or have reduced sensation even after its shape has been restored.
Some sensation may return naturally over time, but the extent of recovery varies between patients.
How Does Breast Neurotisation Work?
During breast reconstruction, a sensory nerve associated with the reconstructed breast is connected to a suitable nerve in the chest. Where the nerves cannot be connected directly, a nerve graft may be used to bridge the gap.
Over time, nerve fibres can grow through this connection into the reconstructed breast, with the aim of supporting the return of sensation to the breast skin and, where applicable, the nipple-areola complex. The degree and type of sensation that returns can vary, and neurotisation cannot guarantee a return to pre-mastectomy sensation.
When Is Breast Neurotisation Performed?
Breast neurotisation is typically performed at the time of breast reconstruction, allowing nerve connections to be created as the breast is reconstructed. This may be during immediate reconstruction following mastectomy or during a delayed breast reconstruction performed at a later stage.
The exact approach depends on the type of reconstruction being performed and whether suitable nerves are available for reconnection.
Who May Be Suitable for Breast Neurotisation?
Breast neurotisation may be considered for patients undergoing breast reconstruction who wish to improve the potential for sensory recovery in the reconstructed breast. Suitability depends on the reconstruction being performed and whether suitable nerves are available for connection.
Factors that may be considered include:
- The type of breast reconstruction being performed
- Whether suitable nerves are available for connection
- Any factors that may affect nerve healing and sensory recovery
Breast Reconstruction With vs Without Neurotisation
Breast sensation may gradually recover after reconstruction even without neurotisation. Neurotisation differs by creating a deliberate nerve connection to support this process.
| Aspect | With Neurotisation | Without Neurotisation |
|---|---|---|
| Nerve Connection | With Neurotisation A sensory nerve connection is created during reconstruction | Without Neurotisation No additional nerve connection is created |
| Sensory Recovery | With Neurotisation Aims to support the return of sensation through nerve regeneration | Without Neurotisation Some sensation may return naturally over time |
What to Expect After Breast Neurotisation
Sensory recovery after breast neurotisation is gradual because the connected nerves need time to regenerate. As recovery progresses:
- Changes in sensation may begin to become noticeable over the months following reconstruction.
- Sensation may continue to develop over a longer period as the nerves regenerate.
- Sensory recovery can differ between areas of the reconstructed breast.
- Neurotisation aims to improve the potential for sensory recovery, but a return to normal breast or nipple sensation cannot be guaranteed.
As neurotisation is typically performed as part of breast reconstruction, the anaesthesia, hospital stay, downtime and overall surgical recovery depend largely on the accompanying reconstruction procedure. Your surgeon will advise what to expect based on the reconstruction planned.
FAQs About Breast Neurotisation
Does neurotisation make breast reconstruction recovery longer?
Can breast neurotisation restore nipple sensation?
Can breast neurotisation be performed after breast reconstruction?
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