What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?

Risks and uncertainties are inherent with any surgery. This is why it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon that has knowledge and experience in managing any complication with the highest level of care. Breast reduction is a very safe operation, and complications occur infrequently. Infection, loss of sensation, scarring, delayed wound-healing, hematoma or accumulation of blood, asymmetry or loss of the nipple can occur. It is important that you give us a complete medical history during your initial consultation and follow all post-op instructions. This will minimize your chances of experiencing a complication. Infection is prevented through the use of antibiotics during and after surgery. Hematomas are avoided by discontinuing the use of any medications that can affect bleeding like Aspirin, Advil or Ibuprofen for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery and by having you limit your physical activity after surgery.

What is the risk for decreased or lack of nipple sensation after surgery?

Changes in sensitivity to the breasts and/or nipples can occur after surgery. In most cases, this is transient and improves with time. In about 5% of cases, the changes are permanent.

Will I be able to breastfeed in the future?

It’s possible to experience difficulty breast-feeding after breast reduction, and you should assume you will not be able to breastfeed after a reduction. The surgery may interrupt or disturb the milk ducts that lead milk from the glandular tissue of the breasts to the nipples. The more tissue that needs to be removed, the less likely you will be able to breast-feed.