COMPLICATIONS
Referred unwanted biologic events can occur with a certain low frequency and must be regarded as calculated risks. Other risks not mentioned can also occur. For patients this must be considered before a decision for plastic surgery is made.

Bleeding: All operations can cause postoperative bleeding. These risks increase by the intake of analgesics and Vitamin E. These should be avoided 2 weeks prior to the planned operation.

Infection: All operations can cause infections, which in case it happens will be treated with antibiotics.

Healing problems: The blood supply to tissues is essential for proper healing. In breast reduction or breast augmentation the nipple is transposed on long pedicles from where the blood supply comes. In extreme transpositions the risk is greater for disturbances that can lead to partial or full loss of the nipple (necrosis). After secondary healing in those cases there will be scarifications that has to be corrected at a later time. Big breasts are often fatty and fatty tissue has sparse blood supply. Fat necrosis can occur that leads to healing disturbances in the deep, which prolongs healing over time. Blood vessels in skin under tension are strangulated and the blood supply will be decreased. The biggest tension lies in the submammary fold where healing problems are quite common. The best prophylactics are a bra and the use of taping. Scars can be corrected.

Scarring: All scars are red for a couple of months and they fade away during the fist year. Direct sun or solarium against the scars should be avoided to prevent them for permanently become red or pigmented.

Loss of sensibility of the nipple: As the nipples are transposed, the sensory nerves to them can be cut. A transient anaesthesia is common. A permanent loss can occur.

Smoking: Smoking does compromise blood circulation and healing. Smoking should be abandoned prior to a planned operation.