What risks and complications could I be facing from having breast reduction surgery?

#BreastReduction is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient operation. The vast majority of our patients tell us that there was far less discomfort in the early recovery period than was anticipated. The specific risks and suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare. If you have redness, swelling, drainage or odor, it is important to call the office and speak with the doctor or medical staff. You may need to be seen in the office and evaluated. If the wound becomes separated or you develop a small opening, this again should be evaluated so that appropriate steps can be taken as soon as possible.

There are risks associated with any surgery. It's important to understand the risks and benefits of each procedure in order to make an informed decision. For breast reduction risks can include but are not limited to infection, scarring, changes in sensation, and loss of tissue. In order to minimize risk your board certified plastic surgeon will examine you and review your medical history to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Thank you for your question. It is important to familiarize yourself prior to surgery with the potential risk's and complications of breast reduction surgery and the board certified plastic surgeon should review these with you in detail.  Possible risk's and complications may include but are not limited to hematoma, asymmetry, change in nipple sensation, nipple necrosis, unpleasing scar formation, wound breakdown, need for revision surgery, the loss for the ability to breast feed and general surgery complications like a DVT,PE and associated risk's with general anesthesia. It is important to seek out a board certified provider with great experience in breast surgery.Best wishes,Franziska Huettner

Thank you for your question. Scaring is a normal side effect of breast reduction surgery. These scars will fade over time but will never completely disappear. However, your doctor may have scar screams as an option. They can be made worse if you lift heavy objects too soon after surgery. In rare cases, some people have certain complications, such as problems in healing of the nipple area. You also have the risks of infection if you do not keep incisions clean. Just be sure to follow all of your surgeons post care instructions. Best of luck!Dhaval M. Patel Double board certifiedPlastic surgeonHoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrookChicago

Risks associated with breast reduction:infectionanesthesia riskshematoma/seromablood clotsasymmetrynipple sensation changes (numbness or increase in sensation)wound separationnecrosis