Breast Reconstruction Complications

Following breast cancer and a breast mastectomy, many women are left feeling that they have lost a large part of their femininity. Breast reconstruction can restore the shape and size of the breasts to give women back a feeling of confidence and attractiveness. Dr. Julie Vasile strives to do just that by offering her Connecticut patients breast reconstruction options that allow women to make informed decisions regarding the surgical technique that will best provide the desired outcome for the look and feel of the breasts. As a part of her dedication to educating patients regarding treatment options, Dr. Vasile explains to each of them the potential complications of breast reconstruction so that they have a clear understanding of risks before committing to treatment.

Complications

Dr. Vasile is a highly trained and experienced surgeon who has dedicated a large portion of her career to learning the surgical techniques of breast reconstruction. With her extensive background and surgical skill, the chances of complications following breast reconstruction are very slim. However, no surgical procedure is without risks and it is important for patients to understand the potential complications of breast reconstruction, which include, but are not limited to the following:

• Infection: Wound infection is a possible complication of any surgery. Infection can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics, however, an infection with a foreign body implant or cadaveric dermis can be difficult for the body to fight, and may require removal of the implant and/or cadaveric dermis.  
• Seroma: Seroma is the collection of fluid beneath the wound. It is normal for the body to produce fluid around a wound, which is why drain tubes are used during recovery. However, if the fluid continues to collect and seroma develops, this extra fluid will need to be removed with a needle.
• Flap failure: Flap failure is the most serious complication of perforator flap breast reconstruction, a technique that uses the body’s own fat and tissue to reconstruct the breast. Although this complication is rare, it is possible for the tissue used to make the reconstructive flap to die due to problems with blood supply. A partial failure may result in a smaller breast. Flap failure is typically diagnosed early, in the few days following the reconstruction.
• Implant complications: Just as women who undergo breast augmentation, implant breast reconstruction patients need to be aware of possible implant complications. Implant complications include capsular contraction (a hardening around the breast implant due to increasing scar tissue), implant leaks or ruptures, and implant rippling and malposition.
• Discomfort, numbness, tightness
• Scarring: Scars go through phases of healing until they reach the maturation phase, when they fade.

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Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Julie Vasile believes every woman should feel confident and beautiful. She is dedicated to helping women achieve that goal, especially following breast cancer treatment. If you have had a mastectomy and are hoping to restore the shape and size of your breasts, schedule a consultation with Dr. Vasile to learn more about the many techniques available for breast reconstruction. We hope to restore your natural breast form.