Variability in Postoperative Nipple Sensation by Dermoglandular Pedicle in Bilateral Breast Reduction.

Background: Decreased nipple sensation following reduction mammoplasty can negatively affect a variety of patient-centered outcomes. This observational study examined the impact of dermoglandular pedicle type on subjective postoperative nipple sensation.

Methods: A total of 178 women who underwent a bilateral reduction mammoplasty at a single institution from 2017 to 2023 and completed an 11-item survey assessing subjective postoperative nipple sensitivity across various tactile modalities were included. Patient-reported nipple sensations were compared across pedicle type and subgrouped by resection volume.

Results: Of the included survey respondents, 72% (128) underwent reduction with an inferior pedicle and 28% (50) with a superior or superomedial pedicle. Over 92% of patients reported the preservation of postoperative nipple sensation. Compared to the inferior pedicle, the superior pedicle cohort reported decreased nipple sensitivity to light touch (56% vs 30%, respectively) and temperature (30% vs 15%). In resection weights greater than 500 grams, the superior pedicle cohort was less satisfied with postoperative nipple sensation (84% vs. 58%), reported decreased sensation in light touch (58% vs 24%), pressure (50% vs 21%), and experienced more numbness and tingling (17% vs 1.4%) (all p-values ≤0.05).

Conclusion: The majority of patients maintain some sensation after reduction mammoplasty; however, approximately 10% reported a relative decrease in subjective nipple sensation. Pedicle choice did not significantly affect sensory recovery in resection weights of less than 500 grams. When a greater resection weight is anticipated, the inferior pedicle may be associated with more favorable nipple sensation outcomes.

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