Post-Op Breast Reduction Problems
While breast reduction surgery is considered relatively safe if performed by qualified surgeons, it is still an invasive procedure, meaning that it comes with its share of risks, including some that aren't present until after the surgery. These can include some serious ones, such as breast asymmetry, fat necrosis, blood clotting and breastfeeding problems. However, four common risks associated with breast reduction surgery are scarring, numbness, nipple loss and infection, according to mamashealth.com.
Scarring
According to losangelesbreastreduction.com, the amount of scarring after breast reduction surgery depends on the patient and the type of procedure performed, as not everyone heals in the same way and every procedure is different. However, some scarring is guaranteed in surgeries that involve removal of excess skin. Most surgeons try to make as few incisions as possible and use dissolving sutures to reduce visible scarring, but some women inevitably retain signs of the surgery even years later.
Nipple/Breast Numbness
While numbness is a common post-operative experience for a few weeks, some women continue to experience breast and/or nipple numbness indefinitely due to nerve damage or loss of circulation. On the other hand, some women experience extra sensitivity in their nipples after surgery because nerves that were once stretched out when breasts were larger end up being tighter afterward.
Nipple Loss
Occasionally, when one or both nipples lose sensation after a breast reduction surgery it can mean that circulation has been completely cut off, causing the nipples to effectively "die" and an open wound to form. Some women heal on their own, but others require corrective surgery, such as having an artificial nipple tatooed onto the breast or added by means of a skin graft.
While this can happen to anyone, women with particularly large breasts and smokers are more likely victims. Anyone who smokes is advised to give up cigarettes at least a few weeks prior to surgery to reduce chances of nipple loss.
Infection
Any time surgery is performed an infection is possible because the body has been opened up to a host of external bacteria. Anyone getting breast reduction surgery should heed the advice of a medical professional regarding post-operative care.
Tips for Faster Healing
According to smartplasticsurgery.com, ways to help speed up recovery include:
• Apply ice packs to the chest on the day of surgery.
Do not sleep on your stomach for at least two weeks after surgery.
Eat properly and stay hydrated.
Moisturize the breasts every day but avoid applying lotion to areas that have been taped over.
During the first week after surgery, do not bend over, exercise or do anything that could increase pressure on to the chest.
Do not take showers or baths until after the drains have been removed.
Wear loose clothing.
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