Recognising the Warning Signs of Necrosis After a Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a popular cosmetic procedure that aims to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding breast tissue. While many patients experience successful outcomes and enhanced self-confidence, it is crucial to be aware of the potential complications that can arise.

Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors discusses the warning signs of necrosis after a breast lift and provides insights on prevention measures. We also explain what you should do if you find that you are suffering from breast fat necrosis and how we can offer legal support in case of complications related to this procedure.

Understanding tissue and skin necrosis

Necrosis is the premature death of cells and tissue due to a lack of oxygen, usually resulting from an interruption in blood supply. When blood flow is compromised, cells become starved of vital nutrients and oxygen, leading to tissue damage and eventual cell death.

In the context of breast surgery, necrosis can be caused by factors such as poor surgical technique, underlying health conditions, or postoperative complications. Recognising the signs of necrosis is essential to ensure timely intervention and minimise the risk of further complications, such as tissue loss, infection, or disfigurement.

Early warning signs of necrosis after a breast lift

While some discomfort is to be expected following surgery, intense or worsening pain can be an early sign of necrosis. Pain associated with necrosis may be persistent and disproportionate to the healing stage. If you experience pain that does not subside with prescribed medication or becomes more severe, consult your surgeon immediately.

Necrosis can cause the affected skin to turn dark purple, blue, black, or grey. These colour changes result from blood pooling beneath the skin surface and the subsequent death of cells due to oxygen deprivation. If you notice discolouration or an uneven appearance around the surgical site, seek medical attention.

A foul odour from the incision site may indicate an infection or the presence of dead tissue. This unpleasant smell is often accompanied by discharge, which can vary in colour and consistency. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice an unpleasant smell or unusual discharge.

A persistent fever, chills, or body aches could signal an infection or the onset of necrosis. These symptoms may also be accompanied by general malaise, weakness, and a lack of appetite. Report any unusual symptoms to your surgeon as soon as possible.

While some swelling is normal after surgery, excessive or long-lasting inflammation can be a warning sign of necrosis. Inflammation that persists beyond the expected recovery timeline or worsens over time should be promptly assessed by a medical professional.

If your incisions are not healing as anticipated or you experience ongoing pain, consult your surgeon to evaluate the possibility of necrosis. Delayed healing can be a red flag for underlying issues, such as tissue damage or infection, which may require further intervention.

Understanding the warning signs of necrosis of the breast will help you to ensure you get the support you need. If you begin to see the symptoms of necrosis, speak to your surgeon or an independent medical professional as soon as possible.

Preventing necrosis after a breast lift

The risk of necrosis can be minimised by taking several precautions before and after your breast augmentation. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Choose a qualified and experienced surgeon - ensure your chosen surgeon has the necessary qualifications, experience, and a proven track record of successful outcomes. Research their credentials and read reviews from previous patients to make an informed decision.
2. Adhere to post-operative care instructions - follow your surgeon's guidelines for post-operative care, including wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions. Proper care can significantly reduce the risk of complications and promote a smooth recovery.
3. Attend follow-up appointments - regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are crucial to monitor your healing progress and address any potential issues early on. Make sure to adhere to the recommended schedule and report any concerns or symptoms immediately.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle - prioritising a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Smoking, in particular, has been shown to impair blood flow, increase the risk of infection, and slow down the healing process.
5. Communicate with your healthcare team - keep an open line of communication with your surgeon and healthcare team. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and share any symptoms you experience during your recovery.

How can pursuing a breast surgery compensation claim help to deal with skin necrosis issues?

Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors is a leading UK law firm specialising in cosmetic surgery negligence claims. If you have experienced complications such as necrosis following a breast lift, you may be entitled to compensation. Potential grounds for a claim include surgical negligence, inadequate post-operative care, or a lack of informed consent.

Making a compensation claim for medical negligence following skin necrosis after a breast lift surgery can be an important step towards coping with the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of this severe complication.

Skin necrosis can require significant medical intervention, including additional surgeries, wound care, long-term medication, and even reconstructive surgery. A successful claim can cover these costs, relieving the financial burden associated with ongoing medical care.

If skin necrosis has led to prolonged recovery periods or permanent disability, you might not be able to work for a significant amount of time, or your earning capacity could be reduced. Compensation can account for lost wages and future earnings, providing financial stability.

Experiencing a serious complication such as skin necrosis can have a substantial psychological impact, leading to conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Compensation can help cover the cost of counselling or psychotherapy, facilitating mental health recovery.

In addition to material damages, compensation for medical negligence can also account for the pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by skin necrosis. This recognition can provide a sense of justice and closure.

By holding negligent medical professionals accountable, you can help raise awareness about the risks associated with breast lift surgery and potentially prevent similar incidents from happening to others in the future.

Remember, it's important to consult with a solicitor specialising in cosmetic surgery claims to guide you through the process and maximise your chances of a successful claim. Always ensure you understand the process, potential costs, and likely outcomes before proceeding with a claim.

Our experienced team at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will guide you through the process of filing a claim, providing support and expert advice at every step. We have a 95% success rate in all cases pursued after obtaining medical evidence and have secured over £10 million in compensation for our clients. Our firm operates on a no win, no fee basis, ensuring you have access to justice without any upfront financial risk.

The process of filing a claim typically involves the following steps:

1. Free initial consultation - contact our team to discuss your case and assess the likelihood of a successful claim.
2. Gathering evidence - we will work with you to gather medical records, expert opinions, and any other relevant evidence to support your claim.
3. Negotiation - our skilled solicitors will negotiate with the responsible party or their insurance company to seek the maximum compensation possible for your damages.
4. Litigation - if necessary, we will represent your interests in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.

We can help

If you suspect that you have experienced complications related to your surgery, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your options for seeking justice. Call us on 0808 115 6401, or fill out an online contact form and we will return your call at a time convenient for you.