Breast Reduction Side Effects

Breast reduction is designed to remove breast tissue to reduce the weight of the breast, which creates a smaller, lighter and more visually pleasing breast. Although breast reduction side effects are not common, it is possible. This may include: loss of sensation in the breast or nipple, breast reduction scarring, and breast asymmetry.

Here we will touch on some of the side effects of breast reduction, which include bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, infection and pain. Most pain can be treated with a simple prescription from a plastic surgeon, but if the pain is long lasting or severe, it may be necessary to follow up with your physician for a stronger prescription or other options as needed. There are other side effects of breast reduction surgery, including:

Loss of Sensation in the Breast or Nipple

Surgery may increase the possibility of a reduction in blood supply or nerve damage in the breast or in the nipple. Should this occur, sensation can either be lost on a temporary basis or a permanent one, either in the nipple area, the entire breast area, or both at once.

For larger breasts, it may not be possible to properly move the areola and nipple while keeping them attached to their blood vessels and nerves, so while the nipple and areola may be moved, it will involve removal and grafting which can cause a permanent lack of sensation in the area.

Breast Reduction Scarring

Another side effect of breast reduction surgery is permanent scarring on the breast. Vertical and horizontal scars tend to be the most visible, and scars can remain even after the breasts have completed their healing. Internal bleeding and excessive bruising during the surgery and recovery can also lead to an increase in the size of your scarring.

Breast Asymmetry

Another potential side effect of breast reduction plastic surgery is asymmetry of the breasts, meaning that after the surgery the breasts may no longer be symmetrical in shape and size. There is also a chance that the nipple will not be properly positioned, or that the nipples will no longer be the same height. During the procedure, the surgeon has to remove a lot of tissue while the patient is laying down, and this can make complications and side effects more common if the surgeon does not have advanced skills in estimating the exact location and size shape change of each nipple so that upon returning to an upright position, the patient's nipples and breasts are symmetrical again.