A Full Guide to the Risks and Complications of Breast Reduction
Breast reduction (or reduction mammoplasty) is one of the most common and popular cosmetic surgeries in the UK. For women, breast reduction was the second most common cosmetic procedure following breast augmentation, with over 4,000 procedures performed in 2023. Although it is a routine procedure, there are certain short- and long-term risks and complications associated with breast reduction surgery that prospective patients should be aware of.
This guide will summarise everything breast reduction patients should know about the risks and complications associated with the surgery.
Click on one of the links below to jump to that section:
- Are there any short-term risks after breast reduction surgery?
- What are the long-term risks with breast reduction surgery?
- Understanding breast reduction complications
- How Stephen McCulley can help
Are there any short-term risks after breast reduction surgery?
There are potential short-term risks you may experience during the breast reduction recovery period, including:
- Pain and physical discomfort: Most pronounced in the first few days following breast reduction surgery, pain and discomfort often subsides over the first week. Many breast reduction patients experience tenderness, tightness, and aching in the breast area. This can easily be dealt with pain medications.
- Swelling and bruising: Typically peaks within the first 48 and 72 hours after surgery, swelling after breast reduction is completely normal, and happens around the incision site. After your breast reduction surgeon removes tissue, fat, and skin, it disturbs the body which will rebuild healthy tissue, which causes swelling and redness. Once the swelling diminishes, the breasts will become softer and improve in shape.
Before and after – breast reduction surgery using the anchor scar technique
- Surgical drains: Some breast reduction surgeons place drains to prevent fluid build-up. These are small tubes inserted near the incision sites to remove excess blood or fluid. When used, drains will remain in between 24 and 48 hours after breast surgery.
- Risk of infection: Though rare, infection after breast reduction is a potential risk. Symptoms include redness, warmth around the incision, pus drainage, and fever. If you suspect infection, contact your breast reduction surgeon who will assess the potential infection area, and prescribe a course of antibiotics.
- Bleeding and blood transfusions: Incredibly uncommon, bleeding complications may require a transfusion. Symptoms include significant swelling, a rapid increase in pain, and noticeable changes in breast size
To reduce these short-term risks, make sure you follow post-operative instructions, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
Read more about the short-term risks associated with breast reduction surgery here.
If you are experiencing any surgical complications that are worrying you, make sure to consult with your breast surgeon.
Request a callback with Stephen McCulley and his team here.
What are the long-term risks with breast reduction surgery?
While breast reduction surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks that can manifest in the long term:
- Scarring: While most scars fade over time, some breast reduction patients may develop hypertrophic or keloid scars (raised and more prominent). Proper breast reduction scarring management and careful adherence to post-operative instructions can help reduce their visibility.
- Changes in breast or nipple sensation: This occurs in around 20% of breast reduction patients. Temporary numbness is a normal part of the recovery process, but occasionally, sensation loss may be permanent.
- Asymmetry in breast size or shape: Breast size, shape, or nipple position may change as the breasts settle into their desired shape after reductive surgery. Significant asymmetry may occur, which can be fixed with revision surgery.
- Fat necrosis implications: Less common, but a possible risk, fat necrosis is when fat cells in breast tissue die and form firm lumps. Regular self-examinations and medical check-ups are essential to distinguish harmless lumps from potential issues.
- Breastfeeding complications: Around 50% of woman may lose the ability to breast feed after reductive mammoplasty. Depending on the surgical technique, milk ducts and glands may be affected. If this is a concern to you, make sure to inform your breast reduction surgeon during your initial consultation.
- Impact of weight, hormones, and ageing: These factors may affect breast reduction surgery results in the long term. Consider maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle to preserve your new desirable breast shape after surgery.
Reducing the likelihood of long-term risks and the risk of infection begins with proper care during the recovery period. Adhering to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial. This includes wearing supportive garments, avoiding heavy lifting, proper wound care, and quitting smoking.
For more information, read our guide on long-term risks with breast reduction surgery here.
Understanding breast reduction complications
One of the main concerns before surgery is ensuring that you are in good health. Pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Other factors to consider before breast reduction surgery include if you smoke and significant weight fluctuations.
Breast reduction recovery can be challenging, and being aware of possible complications can help you manage them effectively. Potential complications with breast reduction include:
- Wound healing: This can result in delayed recovery, wound breakdown, or the formation of noticeable scarring. Wound issues are a particular concern for smokers, people with diabetes, and those with poor circulation.
- Swelling and bruising: Excessive swelling may indicate fluid accumulation, known as a seroma. In some instances, seromas need to be drained to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Breast asymmetry: No two breasts are naturally identical, and some variation in size and shape may persist post-surgery. In cases of significant breast asymmetry, a revision procedure may be considered.
Regarding male breast reduction (gynaecomastia), the procedure also has some complications prospective patients should be aware of. This includes bleeding, infection, and contour irregularities. Scarring is typically minimal, but raised or uneven scars can sometimes develop.
Before and after – male breast reduction procedure.
In some instances, a condition known as ‘dog ears’ can occur, where excess skin folds at the edges of the incisions. For optimal aesthetic results, this may require revision surgery.
How Stephen McCulley can help
Stephen McCulley is a highly regarded plastic and reconstructive surgeon specialising in breast surgery, including breast reduction procedures. With extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, he is known for his meticulous approach and commitment to achieving natural, balanced results for his patients.
If you are interested in undergoing breast reduction, contact Stephen McCulley and his team and request a consultation.
Related content
Managing Short-Term Risks After Breast Reduction Surgery
Long Term Risks with Breast Reduction: What You Need to Know