Facing a mastectomy can feel overwhelming, not only because of the diagnosis but also because of the physical and emotional changes that follow. One of the most difficult and lasting side effects of traditional mastectomy is the loss of sensation in the chest.
But there’s hope. Thanks to innovative approaches like sensation-preserving mastectomy, patients now have the chance to heal without losing a vital connection to their bodies. At Learn Look Locate, I’m honored to highlight the pioneering work of Dr. Anne Peled, a breast cancer and reconstructive surgeon – and one of our esteemed Medical Advisors – who is leading this important advancement.
A sensation-preserving mastectomy is a specialized surgical technique designed to protect and reconnect nerves that are often cut during traditional mastectomy. Instead of leaving the chest permanently numb, surgeons carefully identify and preserve key nerves, and when possible, reconnect them to maintain or restore sensation.
For patients, this can mean:
Dr. Anne Peled is both a board-certified breast cancer surgeon and plastic surgeon, uniquely trained in combining oncologic safety with reconstructive innovation. She is recognized worldwide for developing and advancing nerve-sparing mastectomy techniques.
As a Learn Look Locate Medical Advisor, Dr. Peled shares not only her surgical expertise but also her deep commitment to patients:
“Our goal is not only to remove cancer but to restore patients’ sense of wholeness. Preserving or reconnecting nerves after mastectomy is a vital step toward truly complete healing.”
– Dr. Anne Peled
Her groundbreaking work is transforming how women experience breast cancer surgery – moving beyond survival to focus on living fully.
For many women, numbness after mastectomy is a daily reminder of cancer. While scars heal, the loss of sensation can affect intimacy, confidence, and even simple moments like hugging a loved one. Sensation-preserving mastectomy addresses this gap, giving patients the chance to reconnect with their bodies.
While not every patient is eligible, many women facing mastectomy – including those with early-stage breast cancer or those at high genetic risk (such as BRCA carriers) – may benefit. The best way to know is through a consultation with a breast surgical oncologist trained in nerve-sparing techniques, such as Dr. Peled.
At Learn Look Locate, we are committed to bridging clarity with compassion. To support you in understanding your surgical choices, explore:
Q. Will I have normal sensation after a sensation-preserving mastectomy?
A: Not always – but many patients report partial to significant return of sensation over time. Outcomes vary based on anatomy, tumor location, and surgical technique.
Q. How long does it take for sensation to return?
A: Some patients notice changes within a few months, while for others, it may take a year or more. Sensation can continue improving gradually over time as nerves heal and reconnect.
Q. Is this procedure widely available?
A: No. Sensation-preserving mastectomy requires specialized training. Currently, only select surgeons, including Dr. Anne Peled, perform it regularly.
Q. What is nerve grafting or neurotization?
A: In some cases, surgeons use nerve grafts to reconnect cut nerves – a process called neurotization. This can increase the chances of regaining sensation after mastectomy.
Q. Does insurance cover it?
A: In many cases, yes – but coverage depends on the center and insurance provider. Patients should ask about their reconstructive rights under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act.
Q. Can it be combined with reconstruction?
A: Yes. This procedure is often paired with reconstruction, including implants or flap procedures like DIEP flap, for both function and aesthetics.
If you are facing breast cancer surgery, know that you have options. With leaders like Dr. Anne Peled guiding this field, sensation-preserving mastectomy represents a hopeful step forward – not just removing cancer but restoring connection to your body and your life.
At Learn Look Locate, we proudly share the voices of trusted medical advisors like Dr. Peled alongside survivor experiences, so no one has to navigate this path alone.
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