Are there higher risks with breast reduction surgery if you have dense breast tissue?

Radiologists use the term dense breast tissue to elaborate four categories of density: from extremely fatty tissue to practically no fatty tissue.  Breast density is not based on how your breasts feel, or related to breast size or firmness. Having dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to evaluate results of your mammogram and may be associated with an increased risk for breast cancer. It should not make breast reduction more risky. The best way to minimize scars is to make the fewest number of incisions possible without compromising the quality of work done.  Your board certified PS will evaluate your medical history and overall health to determine if you are a good candidate for BR surgery. General good health is more important than age.

For my patients, I tell them that the surgical outcome and recovery is about the same for people that have different densities of breast tissue. I think the main issue is if a patient has a higher risk of breast cancer and if they have dense breast tissue, then they might want to consider a breast MRI, in addition to a mammogram prior to surgery. Make sure to see someone with experience to help guide you through the process. 

No, there is no higher risk for dense breast tissue.  Breasts are composed of two structures: fat and breast parenchyma (firm rubbery tissue).  Parenchyma holds the shape better.  Also, younger patients seem to heal quicker than older patients.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

It doesn't seem that breast density would in any way make breast reduction more complicated. On the contrary, one could expect a longer lasting result and less sagging in time when dealing with dense breasts. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with good reputation in breast surgery is recommended. Good luck.

Density of breast tissue and age will have no significant effect on your healing or result, assuming your are otherwise healthy.

Dear Runner2121,
Many women have overdevelopment of breast tissue and require reductions even younger than 21 years old some times.  Some of the questions you need to ask yourself are if you are willing to have scars from the surgery, take the risk of losing nipple sensation and other complications in addition to possible problems breast feeding if you plan to have children in the future. I would meet with a plastic surgeon to go over all of these risks and benefits to see if you would be a good candidate for surgery
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Dear Runner2121,Dense breast tissue should not make a breast reduction more risky. What usually makes a breast reduction more risky are 1) a history of previous breast surgeries, 2) extremely ptotic (droopy) breasts and 3) a large amount of breast tissue removed. That being said, in most patients, the benefits of breast reduction surgery far outweigh the risks.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Breast reduction surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and considerations, and having dense breast tissue may present some additional factors to consider. Dense breast tissue refers to breast tissue that has less fat and more glandular and connective tissue, making it appear denser on mammograms and potentially increasing the risk of breast cancer.
When considering breast reduction surgery for individuals with dense breast tissue, there are a few potential factors to keep in mind:
1. Surgical Complications: Dense breast tissue may make the surgical procedure more challenging for the plastic surgeon. The increased density can make it harder to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes and may increase the risk of complications such as unevenness or asymmetry in breast shape and size.
2. Mammography and Cancer Detection: Dense breast tissue can make it more difficult to detect breast cancer on mammograms. After breast reduction surgery, the interpretation of mammograms can become more complex due to changes in breast anatomy. It's important to discuss with your healthcare provider how breast reduction surgery may impact future breast cancer screening and detection.
3. Healing and Recovery: Dense breast tissue may affect healing and recovery after breast reduction surgery. It can potentially increase the risk of delayed wound healing or other complications during the recovery period. Following post-operative care instructions diligently and attending follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are essential for monitoring healing and addressing any concerns promptly.
4. Communication with Healthcare Providers: Individuals with dense breast tissue should communicate openly with their healthcare providers about their breast density and any concerns they may have regarding breast reduction surgery. This communication can help ensure that the surgical plan is tailored to individual needs and that appropriate measures are taken to minimize risks and optimize outcomes.
Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, it's crucial to consult with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who can assess your individual situation, discuss potential risks and benefits, and develop a treatment plan that takes into account your breast density and other relevant factors. Additionally, discussing your concerns with your plastic surgeon can provide valuable insights and guidance in making informed decisions about breast surgery.

Hi and welcome to our forum!The breast is composed of glandular tissue and fat. "Density" is a term used to describe radiographic appearance. A dense breast has a greater ratio of glandular tissue to fat. It will not have any effect upon the healing process.Your state of health is the most important factor when contemplating surgery. Age is of less importance.Best wishes...

There is not a know increase in complications with patients who have more dense breasts and undergo reduction.  The breasts may hold their shape longer if they are more dense and made of breast tissue vs. more fatty.