Is fat necrosis after breast reduction common?

Necrosis of the breast tissue, breast envelope and/or incision line is very rare.  Some of the studies report 2.5%.  A history of smoking, circulation problems, diabetes, and compromised wound healing abilities increase these risks.Based upon your age, the fact that you do not smoke, and have no health issues, you have no reason to be concerned about this issue.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

As noted below, fat necrosis is fairly uncommon after breast reduction in an otherwise healthy non smoking person. Obviously as a patient increases their risk factors the chance of complications increases. If concerned then please discuss with your chosen board certified plastic surgeon.

Fat necrosis after breast reduction is infrequent and is associated with a very large breast size, the technique, and certain risk factors such as smoking and diabetes. It presents itself as a firm lump in the breast which otherwise heals without issue. The area can be removed if troublesome or tender. We do not see this issue with younger and healthier individuals and not with the vertical or short scar reduction which might be suitable for your breast size and goal.