There are always potential risks and complications associated with surgery. Complications are rare but can occur. The main complications of breast reduction surgery include:
Bleeding
Bleeding can occur after your procedure and oozing from the wounds is common. Some bleeding can accumulate under the skin resulting in a haematoma or blood collection. Small haematoma will usually resolve with time and may not need any further treatment. Larger haematomas, however, may need a return to theatre to remove them and find the source of bleeding.
Infection
Infection can occur and most often can be managed with antibiotics. Sterile procedures and antibiotics given during the operation try to reduce the risk of infection.
Wound breakdown and healing problems
The most common site of wound breakdown or healing delay is the so called T junction. This is the area where the vertical and horizontal scars meet and the point of maximum tension when the breast is stitched closed. If this occurs it may take longer to heal. There are pre-existing risk factors for poor wound healing such as smoking and diabetes.
Scarring
There will be permanent scars on the breast depending on the type of skin incision pattern. Scars can sometimes become hypertrophic or keloid which means they may be raised, red and lumpy. This can occur around the areolar or along all the scars. Patients will usually have a tendency to develop this type of scarring or there may be a family history of abnormal scarring.
Asymmetry
There is always some degree of asymmetry between breasts and nipple areolar complexes. Occasionally, after breast reduction there may be residual asymmetry or patients may become more aware of pre-existing asymmetries.
Change in Nipple Sensation
Due to the nature of surgery and movement of the nipple there is risk of changes to nipple sensation. This is usually reduced nipple sensation after surgery that is often temporary but may be permanent.
Nipple Loss
Very rarely there is risk of nipple loss that can occur when the blood supply to the nipple is disrupted. There is a higher risk of this when the breast is very big and the distance the nipple is moved is longer. In extreme cases, the nipple may be removed pre-emptively and used as a nipple graft.
Fat Necrosis
Fat necrosis occurs when the fat in the breast loses its blood supply. This may result in firm hard areas where the fat has not survived. Small areas often resolve with time.
