What Are the Common Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery
What Are the Common Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery Breast reduction surgery helps many people feel better about their bodies. It often reduces back pain and can make daily tasks easier. Like any medical process, it has some risks you should know about before deciding.
Doctors do breast reduction to remove extra tissue and skin. This makes breasts smaller and can improve shape as well. Even when done by skilled doctors, there could be a chance of infection or scarring after the surgery.
Before getting breast reduction, learn what might happen during or after it. Talk with your doctor about these risks so you can choose what’s best for you. Remember that each person heals differently, so experiences may vary.
Infection
Infection is one of the common risks after breast reduction surgery. The cuts made during surgery might let germs get inside. This can happen in the hospital or when you go home. Keeping the wound clean is very important to avoid this risk.
Signs of an infection include redness, heat, swelling, and pain that gets worse. You might also have a fever or see pus coming from the cut areas. If you notice these signs, contact your doctor right away for help.
To lower your chance of getting an infection, follow all care steps given by your doctor. This includes using any medicines they give you as told. Also make sure to keep any follow-up visits so they can check on how you are healing.
If an infection does happen after breast reduction surgery, it’s often treated with antibiotics. Sometimes though, more treatment may be needed if it’s serious. Your health and safety are always top priority for doctors taking care of such risks.
Scarring
Scarring is a natural part of healing after any surgery, including breast reduction. When skin heals from the cuts made during surgery, scars form where these cuts were. Everyone’s body heals in its own way, which means scar size and look can vary.
Most of the time, scars from breast reduction are hidden under clothes. They might be around the nipple or run down below it. Doctors try to place them so they’re not easy to see when you wear normal clothes.
There are ways to help make scarring less noticeable after surgery. Using special creams or gels on your skin can help. So can following your doctor’s advice about caring for wounds as they heal.
Know that over time, most scars become lighter and don’t stand out as much. It takes patience but usually between one and two years for them to settle fully. If you have concerns about scarring, talk with your surgeon before having breast reduction surgery.
Changes in Sensation
Breast reduction surgery may lead to changes in how your breasts feel. This can mean less feeling or different kinds of feelings in the skin and nipple areas. Nerves get moved around during surgery which can cause these changes.
Most people find that normal sensation comes back over time. It might take months for this to happen as nerves heal after surgery. Some areas might stay more numb or sensitive than before, but this is rare.
It’s good to talk about this with your doctor when planning your surgery. They will explain what you might expect regarding feeling in your breasts post-surgery. Knowing about this risk helps you make an informed choice about breast reduction surgery.
Bleeding
Bleeding can happen during or after breast reduction surgery, as with any operation. It’s a normal part of the body’s response to being cut. Surgeons expect some bleeding and are ready to handle it safely.
Still, there are times when bleeding might be more than usual. If this happens during surgery, doctors take care to stop it right away. They have tools and methods that help control and limit blood loss in the operating room.
After surgery, some bleeding is still possible as you heal. That’s why close monitoring after the procedure is so important. Your medical team will check for signs of excess bleeding and treat them quickly if needed.
To reduce your risk of bleeding post-surgery, follow all guidelines provided by your doctor closely. This includes avoiding certain activities that could strain your healing wounds or increase blood pressure.
Be aware that using some medicines like aspirin can raise your risk of bleeding too. Always tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements you’re taking before having breast reduction surgery to avoid extra risks related to bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can breast reduction surgery reduce back pain?
Yes, many people experience relief from back pain after the surgery due to less weight on their chest.
How long does it take to recover from breast reduction surgery?
Recovery can vary, but most people need several weeks before returning to normal activities.
Will health insurance cover my breast reduction surgery?
Coverage depends on your plan and reasons for the surgery. It's best to consult with your insurance company directly.
The answers provided here are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice.
