Breast Reduction Risks

No surgery is without risks, but breast reduction can be very extensive surgery, which means the risks can be greater than with other types of breast surgery, such as breast augmentation. As with all surgery, there is the risk of infection, blood loss due to excessive bleeding, and complications due to bad reactions to anesthesia. These risks are rare, but they are more likely if you have underlying health problems such as diabetes or if you are a smoker.

One complication of breast reduction is that your future ability to breastfeed may be compromised. If you intend to have a child in the future, you should discuss this with your surgeon. He or she can use a modified technique that can preserve some ability to breastfeed. However, there is no guarantee that you will be able to produce a sufficient amount of breast milk for a baby.

Another risk of breast reduction is tissue necrosis, caused when the blood supply to skin or other tissue is interrupted. The tissue dies, turns black, and must be removed to prevent infection.

Scarring may be extensive after breast reduction. The incisions are long and some people—notably smokers—do not heal as well as others. The wounds may also open if the skin is pulled too tightly during surgery.

You may also be unsatisfied with the cosmetic outcome of your surgery. Breast reduction can result in breasts that are asymmetrical or misshapen.

Disclaimers