Breast Reduction – If something should go wrong

A Breast reduction surgery is generally very safe, especially when compared with its significant medical benefits. But, like all cosmetic surgeries it does come with certain risks. As with any other surgery, it is important to consider the risks of bleeding, infection and complications related to anesthesia, which are relatively uncommon, but noteworthy. In addition to these general risks there are certain factors which are specifically associated with breast reduction, and which candidates should be aware of before cosmetic surgery.

The most commonly reported permanent side effect from breast reduction, is significant and noticeable scaring. This can be reduced to some degree by encouraging prompt healing, and use of scar reducing creams. These scars are typically well hidden by bras and bikini tops, but should be taken into consideration. Women also report that after breast reduction their nipples are no longer symmetrical, this may have to do with a slightly off centre placement, slight differentiation in final size, or one residing higher in the breast than the other. Many women also report a loss on sensation, or ongoing numbness in the nipple and breast. Women who have had breast reduction surgeries are not capable of breast feeding because milk ducts are removed.

In very rare cases, blood flow to the nipple is permanently interrupted, resulting in tissue death. In these cases the nipple and areola will be removed and reconstructed from tissue barrowed from other areas of the body.

Because of increased risk of serious complication, breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to have and breast feed children, who have hard to control or uncontrolled diabetes, who have or have had breast cancer, or who have cellulites.