What Are the Common Problems After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery can be transformative for many women, offering relief from physical discomfort and improved body confidence. However, like any surgery, it’s important to be fully aware of the risks and potential complications. 

This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to the common problems and side effects that may occur after breast reduction surgery and how to manage them.

Why have breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is often performed to alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort caused by large breasts. 

Women with very large breasts frequently experience breast pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain due to the weight and size of their breasts. These issues can be compounded by skin irritation in the breast fold and difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. Large breasts can also limit physical activity, making it hard for women to engage in sports or other exercise, which can impact overall health.

Women considering breast reduction often hope to reduce or eliminate these issues, while also achieving a more proportionate body shape. Understanding the procedure and potential complications is important before making this decision.

What to expect during the breast reduction procedure

Breast reduction surgery, also known as mammoplasty, involves the removal of excess breast tissue, skin, and fat to achieve a more proportional breast size. 

The exact technique used in the surgical procedure depends on the patient’s individual anatomy and the amount of reduction required. Common methods include the anchor technique (which creates a scar around the nipple, down the breast, and along the breast crease) and the vertical incision (which avoids scarring under the breast fold).

During the surgery, the plastic surgeon will remove excess fat and reshape the remaining breast tissue to create a natural look. Blood vessels and glandular tissue are preserved as much as possible to maintain sensation and, in some cases, the ability to breastfeed.

Common problems after breast reduction surgery

While breast reduction surgery is considered safe, like all surgeries, it carries potential risks. The most common problems patients experience after breast reduction include:

• Scarring: all surgeries leave scars, but the visibility of scars can vary greatly depending on factors such as skin type, genetics, and post-operative care.

• Infections: infections may develop around the incision sites, which can prolong healing and cause complications if not treated early.

• Fat necrosis: this is a condition where the fatty tissue within the breast dies and forms firm lumps.

• Blood clots: post-surgery immobility can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots in the legs, a potentially serious complication.

• Poor healing: some patients may experience delayed healing of incisions or wound healing issues, leading to infections or the need for revision surgery.

• Changes in Nipple sensation: temporary or permanent loss of nipple sensation is common, as nerves may be disrupted during the procedure.

Each of these potential issues can be managed with proper post-surgery care and close monitoring by your healthcare provider.

Breast reduction scarring

Scarring is one of the most common concerns for women undergoing breast reduction surgery. Scars are an inevitable result of the procedure, but their appearance can vary depending on the surgical technique used. Vertical scars (sometimes referred to as a “lollipop” scar) are less invasive than anchor-shaped scars, which also extend along the breast crease.

To minimise the appearance of scars, surgeons often recommend:

• Silicone scar sheets: these can help flatten and fade scars.

• Scar massage: gentle massage of the scars, once the incisions have healed, can promote blood flow and improve the appearance of scars.

• Avoiding sun exposure: sunlight can darken scars, so it’s important to keep scars covered or use high-SPF sunscreen.

Most scars fade over time, although some women may develop more noticeable scars due to genetic factors or poor healing.

Signs of infection after breast reduction surgery

Infections are a common concern after any surgery, and breast reduction is no exception. Signs of infection can include:

• Redness: if the area around the incision becomes increasingly red or inflamed, it could be a sign of infection.

• Swelling: swelling is normal after surgery, but if it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms, it should be checked by a doctor.

• Discharge: pus or any unusual fluid from the surgical site is a strong indicator of infection.

• Fever: a raised temperature, particularly if accompanied by chills, is often a sign of infection in the body.

Prompt treatment with antibiotics is usually sufficient to manage infections, but more severe cases may require further medical intervention. It's important to catch infections early to avoid complications such as poor healing or delayed recovery.

Breast reduction recovery week by week

Recovery from breast reduction surgery is a gradual process, and it's important to have realistic expectations about the time it will take to fully heal. Here’s a breakdown of the typical recovery timeline:

• First week: during the first few days after surgery, swelling and bruising will be at their worst. You’ll need to wear a surgical bra to provide support and minimise movement of the breasts. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter painkillers, but your surgeon may prescribe something stronger if needed.

• Weeks 2-3: swelling will start to decrease, and you may notice that your breasts are beginning to settle into their new shape. You’ll be able to resume light activities, but heavy lifting or strenuous exercise should still be avoided.

• Weeks 4-6: by this point, most of the initial swelling will have gone down, although some residual swelling may persist. You can usually return to work and start introducing more physical activity, but it’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice on when to increase your activity level.

• Months 3-6: your scars will start to fade, and your breasts will continue to settle into their final position. Full recovery, including the complete fading of scars, can take up to a year.

Wound healing after breast reduction surgery

Proper wound care is essential for ensuring a smooth recovery and reducing the risk of complications. Here are some tips to promote wound healing:

• Keep the area clean and dry: follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to clean your incisions and change your dressings. Keeping the area free from moisture helps prevent infection.

• Avoid smoking: smoking significantly delays wound healing, as it reduces blood flow to the surgical site. It’s best to stop smoking at least a few weeks before and after surgery.

• Maintain a healthy diet: good nutrition, particularly foods rich in protein and vitamins, supports the body’s natural healing process.

If you notice any issues with your incision sites, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your surgeon promptly.

Managing fat necrosis after breast reduction surgery

Fat necrosis is a condition where fatty tissue in the breast dies due to a lack of blood supply. This can result in firm lumps within the breast that can be concerning for patients. Fat necrosis is usually harmless and does not increase the risk of breast cancer, but it can be uncomfortable.

In most cases, fat necrosis will resolve on its own, but if the lumps are bothersome or painful, your surgeon may recommend additional treatments. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the affected tissue.

Combining breast reduction and lift

For many women, breast reduction surgery is combined with a breast lift to improve the overall shape and position of the breasts. 

After excess breast tissue is removed, a lift can help raise the breasts to a more youthful position, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing outcome. This combined approach addresses both the functional issues caused by large breasts and the cosmetic concerns that often accompany them, such as sagging or asymmetry.

Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery: is it possible?

One of the most common concerns for women considering breast reduction is whether they will be able to breastfeed after the surgery. 

The ability to breastfeed depends on several factors, including the surgical technique used and how much of the glandular tissue and milk ducts are preserved during the operation. Many women are able to breastfeed after a reduction, but some may experience reduced milk production. 

If breastfeeding is important to you, be sure to discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation, as they can use specific techniques to help preserve your ability to breastfeed.

Long-term complications and revision surgery

While most women are satisfied with the results of their breast reduction, some may experience complications or dissatisfaction with their results over time. Common reasons for revision surgery include:

• Asymmetry: even with the best surgical technique, perfect symmetry is difficult to achieve, and some patients may feel that one breast is slightly larger or differently shaped than the other.

• Scarring: some patients may develop more noticeable scars, particularly if they have a history of poor wound healing or keloid formation.

• Changes in breast shape: over time, the breasts may change shape due to ageing, weight fluctuations, or other factors, prompting a desire for revision surgery.

In these cases, further surgery may be necessary to correct any issues and achieve the desired results.

What happens if I’m not satisfied with the results?

While breast reduction surgery can be highly successful, there are instances where patients might not be fully satisfied with their results. This can be due to aesthetic concerns, physical discomfort, or unexpected changes post-surgery. The most common issues include:

• Asymmetry: one breast may be slightly different in size or shape than the other.

• Unwanted scarring: scars may be more prominent than expected.

• Excessive firmness or lumps: these can result from fat necrosis or other healing complications.

If the patient is dissatisfied, revision surgery is an option. This secondary procedure is performed to correct issues like asymmetry, excessive scarring, or other aesthetic concerns. Surgeons typically advise waiting until full healing has occurred (6-12 months) before considering a revision to allow swelling to subside and scars to mature.

Breast reduction surgery costs

The cost of breast reduction surgery varies depending on multiple factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the clinic’s location, and the complexity of the procedure.

In the UK, costs typically range between £5,000 and £7,000 for the surgery alone. This figure can increase if combined with a breast lift or if further post-operative care is required.

It’s important to note that many women who undergo this procedure for health reasons may have the surgery partially or fully covered by the NHS or private health insurance. However, for cosmetic purposes, patients will need to cover the entire cost themselves.

Patients must also consider the potential for additional costs, such as follow-up consultations, medications, or further surgery if complications arise. Additionally, if patients experience poor healing or develop issues such as fat necrosis, this could lead to extra treatment costs.

Post-surgery lifestyle changes: physical activity and support garments

After surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines regarding physical activity. During the first few weeks, activities such as heavy lifting and intense exercise should be avoided to allow for proper healing. Most surgeons recommend avoiding activities that could put stress on the chest area for at least 4-6 weeks post-surgery.

Wearing a surgical bra is important during the recovery period, as it provides support to the healing breasts, reduces swelling, and helps them maintain their new shape. The bra should be worn continuously (except when showering) for the first few weeks and then gradually reduced as healing progresses.

Patients can slowly reintroduce physical activities such as light exercise or sports bra-supported activities in the months following surgery. It's important to ensure proper care during this phase to avoid issues such as unusual swelling or delayed healing.

Improving appearance after breast reduction surgery

Most women are delighted with the results of their breast reduction surgery, experiencing improved comfort, mobility, and self-confidence. However, achieving the best possible outcome requires a commitment to post-surgery care. Here are some key tips to improve the appearance of your breasts following surgery:

• Scar management: use scar-reducing creams and protect scars from sun exposure to minimise their visibility.

• Proper support: wearing supportive bras helps maintain your new breast shape and reduces unnecessary strain.

• Healthy lifestyle: maintaining a healthy weight post-surgery ensures your breasts remain proportionate to your body.

It’s also important to manage expectations. Breast shape and size will continue to change slightly in the months following surgery as swelling subsides and tissues settle.

Preparing for a safe and successful breast reduction surgery

Breast reduction surgery can offer life-changing relief from physical discomfort, improved body image, and increased quality of life. However, it’s important to be fully aware of the potential risks and common problems after breast reduction surgery. 

By carefully choosing an experienced plastic surgeon, following post-operative care instructions, and managing your recovery effectively, you can minimise complications and achieve the best possible results.

When to seek assistance from a solicitor

While most breast reduction surgeries are successful, complications such as poor healing, scarring, or fat necrosis can occur, and in some cases, these issues may be the result of surgical negligence. 

If you experience complications that you believe were caused by poor medical practice, it may be time to seek legal assistance.  Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors can help you understand your rights and explore options for compensation. To find out more, visit our breast reduction compensation page.