Reduction Mammoplasty RisksReduction mammoplasty is the medical term for breast reduction surgery. The purpose of the procedure is to decrease breast size and raise the anatomical position of the breast, as well as the placement of the nipple and areola. The overall effect lessens the burden of large heavy breasts and creates a more youthful appearance and greater physical functionality. However, there are some inherent risks involved in breast reduction procedures and these risks are important to address prior to surgery.
Breast reduction
is an invasive and complicated operation. As with any surgery, there are certain general
risks
involved during and after the procedure. The most common of these risks include:* infection during or after the operation.
This procedure involves incisions made directly into the breast mound, as well as around the border of the areola. The
periareolar
incision generally preserves the nerve and milk duct attachments to the nipple, but in some instances, the nipple must actually be removed from the body, severing these attachments and placed as a skin graft later in the procedure. All these incisions have the potential to cause loss or reduction in nipple or
breast sensitivity.
The nipple might also lose the ability to respond to stimulus. The future ability to
breastfeed
might be reduced or eliminated, as well. Of course, the most common post-operative risk of this invasive operation is
scarring
on the actual breast and areola. A good
plastic surgeon
will do everything possible to reduce scarring, but it is likely that some visible evidence of the surgery will exist permanently.
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Reduction Mammoplasty to Breast Surgery
12/20/07 Revised 6/11/11
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