Why is Resensation Important After a Mastectomy?​​​​​​​

Undergoing a mastectomy can be a life-altering experience for many women. Beyond the physical changes, the emotional and psychological impact of losing a breast can be profound. The loss of breast sensation is one of the most significant consequences, often leading to a diminished sense of self-image, intimacy, and overall well-being.

Mastectomy can result in the severing of the nerves that provide sensation to the breast. This can leave the affected area numb, making it difficult to feel touch, temperature, or even the presence of the breast. The loss of sensation can significantly impact a woman's daily life, from difficulty with self-care routines to a reduced ability to detect changes in the breast that could indicate potential health concerns.

Loss of Breast Sensation and Its Effects

The impact of losing breast sensation extends far beyond the physical. It can lead to a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including:
 

• Altered body image and self-esteem: Without the ability to feel and connect with the breast, women may struggle to accept and embrace their post-mastectomy body.
• Reduced intimacy and sexual function: The loss of sensation can make physical intimacy more challenging, leading to feelings of disconnection and reduced sexual satisfaction.
• Increased anxiety and fear: The inability to detect changes in the breast can heighten concerns about potential cancer recurrence or other health issues.
• Difficulty with self-care and daily activities: Simple tasks like showering or getting dressed may become more challenging without the sense of touch.

Addressing the loss of breast sensation is crucial in helping women regain a sense of normalcy, confidence, and overall quality of life after a mastectomy.

Exploring Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery has become an increasingly popular option for women seeking to restore the appearance and form of their breasts after a mastectomy. This procedure involves the creation of a new breast mound using either the patient's own tissue or artificial implants.
 

What is Resensation and How Does It Work?

Resensation is a groundbreaking technique that aims to restore sensation to the reconstructed breast. This innovative approach utilizes allograft nerve tissue, which is carefully implanted during the reconstruction process to reconnect the nerves in the chest to those in the flap tissue or implant.
 

The resensation procedure involves the following steps:
 

• Nerve Identification: During the reconstruction surgery, the surgeon identifies the severed nerves in the chest wall and the nerves within the flap tissue or implant.
• Nerve Graft Implantation: The surgeon carefully implants the allograft nerve tissue, creating a bridge between the severed nerves to facilitate nerve regrowth and reconnection.
• Nerve Regeneration: Over time, the body's natural healing process allows the nerves to regenerate and reconnect, gradually restoring sensation to the reconstructed breast.

This innovative technique is designed to provide women with a more comprehensive and holistic approach to breast reconstruction, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the mastectomy experience.

Benefits of Resensation After a Mastectomy

Undergoing resensation as part of your breast reconstruction can offer a range of benefits. The primary goal of resensation is to reestablish sensation in the reconstructed breast, allowing you to feel touch, temperature, and other sensations once again. Regaining sensation can help you feel more connected to your reconstructed breast, enhancing your overall body image and self-confidence. The restoration of sensation can positively impact your intimate relationships, improving sexual satisfaction and overall quality of life.
 

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of mastectomy, resensation can contribute to a more comprehensive and holistic healing process, helping you to embrace a new chapter in your life.
 

Embracing a New Chapter After a Mastectomy

Navigating the journey after a mastectomy can be challenging, but with innovative techniques like resensation, you have the opportunity to regain a sense of wholeness and reclaim your quality of life. By restoring sensation to the reconstructed breast, you can take a significant step towards embracing a new chapter, one that celebrates your strength, resilience, and the beauty of your transformation.
 

If you or a loved one have undergone a mastectomy and are interested in learning more about resensation and how it can benefit your breast reconstruction journey, schedule a consultation with our plastic surgeon who specializes in this innovative technique. Take the first step towards reclaiming your sense of self and embracing a new chapter in your life, visit Jason K. Potter, MD, DDS, at our office in Dallas, Texas, or call (214) 892-2474 to book a consultation today.