As with any type of cosmetic surgery, there are risks and complications that can arise. If you are thinking of having breast reduction surgery, it is important to understand what some of those can be.
Most commonly are reactions to the anesthesia. They can range from having an allergic reaction to other issues such as:
• Breathing difficulties
• Irregular heart rate
• Nausea, dizziness or vomiting
• Rash
• Anxiety
There are also some risks and complications associated specifically to having breast reduction surgery. They include:
• Numbness or loss of sensitivity in the nipples – This is the most common risk with sensation usually returning after several months. However, sometimes the loss of sensitivity is permanent.
• Irregular Scarring – Many times a result of those who smoke or have a history of abnormal collagen formation.
• Wound Separation – May require additional surgery.
• Breast Asymmetry – Plastic surgeons do their best to make sure the breasts are even in height and volume but they can still become asymmetrical.
• Bruising and Dark Spots – Can last for a few weeks or longer.
• Blood Loss – Rare complication.
• Hematoma and Seroma – Both cause pain and scar tissue.
• Fat and Tissue Necrosis – Can lead to an infection or gangrene if left untreated.
These are just some of the risk factors that need to be considered and discussed with a surgeon. As with any type of cosmetic surgery there is also the risk of developing an infection. Symptoms of an infection include:
• Fever
• Intense heat in the surgical area
• Redness
• Severe swelling or pain
• Discharge and/or foul smell
By knowing the risks and understanding some of the complications that can arise, you will be better prepared for any type of cosmetic surgery. Be sure to discuss with your surgeon all the risks associated specifically with having breast reduction surgery.