Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy Improves Long-Term Nipple But Not Skin Sensation After Breast Reconstruction Quantification of Long-Term Sensation in Nipple Sparing Versus Non-nipple Sparing Mastectomy

Background: Changes in breast sensation after reconstruction are expected. Return of breast sensation after reconstruction and whether nipple-sparing mastectomy offers a substantial benefit in terms of sensation has been inconsistently documented in the literature. We conducted the current study using the pressure-specified sensory device to quantify postoperative breast sensation in patients undergoing nipple-sparing versus non-nipple-sparing mastectomy. Methods: Consecutive adult women who underwent nipple-sparing (NSM) and non-NSM (NNSM) and were at least 18 months postreconstruction were included. Breast measurements were taken in 4 quadrants (upper/lower lateral, upper/lower medial) and nipple. Averaged skin cutaneous thresholds [(UL+ LL+ UM+ LM)/4] and nipple sensation between NSM and NNSM were compared as the primary outcome measure. A generalized estimating equations model was used; univariate and multivariate variable analyses were done when appropriate. Results: Forty-four patients (74 breasts) were examined (53 NNSMvs 21 NSM). The groups were further subdivided into autologous versus implant-based reconstruction. Averaged cutaneous skin thresholds for quadrants were better for the NSM, 51.8(+/- 24.5) g/mm(2) versus NNSM, 56.5(+/- 25.7) g/mm(2), although this difference was not statistically significant. However, NSM breasts measured higher nipple or nipple area sensitivity, 44.5(+/- 30.8) g/mm(2) versus NNSM, 83.8(+/- 27.4) g/mm(2) (P < 0.001). In a multivariate regression analysis, a predictor of decreased sensation was the number of revision surgeries, especially after third revision. Conclusions: Breast sensation is decreased after reconstruction in both NSMand NNSM, but nipple sensation or nipple area is better preserved in NSM breasts. Number of revision surgeries (> 3) was a predictor of decreased sensation.