In addition to the cosmetic and emotional benefits many women experience following breast reduction surgery, there are other advantages to this surgery. For example, some women find that monthly breast self-examinations and mammography are easier following reduction surgery.

One of the most noticeable differences for women is in the area of exercise. Women with large, pendulous breasts (breast hypertrophy) often find it difficult to run or participate in many aerobic activities. Following reduction surgery, exercise is far easier and more comfortable.

However, breast reduction surgery carries with it some degree of risk for complications. Some of the complications or risks associated with breast reduction surgery include:

• Infection
  
  
• The formation of a hematoma, which is an area of clotted blood that forms in the breast often from a broken blood vessel
  
  
• Excessive bleeding
  
  
• Delayed healing of the incisions
  
  
• Fatty necrosis (tissue death) of the breast tissue
  
  
• Noticeable scarring
  
  
• Hypertrophic scarring or keloid (thick and excessive) scarring (rare)
  
  
• Cosmetic imperfections which may require additional corrective surgeries
  
  
• Aesthetic imperfections of the shape, size or position of the nipples
  
  
• Impaired nipple sensation, which may be permanent
  
  
• Elimination of lactation for breastfeeding

Beyond the risks normally associated with surgery, a plastic surgeon may not recommend breast reduction in certain instances. These concerns can lead to possible complications, ranging from excessive bleeding during surgery to slower healing times. Some of the concerns that may prevent a woman from having breast reduction surgery include:

• Tobacco use
• Steroid use
• Anticoagulant use
• Plans to breastfeed