Signs of Infection After Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, medically known as reduction mammoplasty, has become a significant procedure for many seeking relief from physical and psychological discomfort caused by overly large breasts. While this surgery often leads to enhanced quality of life and physical ease, it’s crucial for patients to be aware of the potential post-operative complications, including the risk of infection. Infections, if not identified and treated promptly, can lead to serious health issues and impact the success of the surgery.

This article aims to educate patients, caregivers, and interested individuals about the signs of infection following breast reduction surgery. Recognising these signs early is vital for timely medical intervention and ensuring a smooth recovery. We will delve into the various stages of infection symptoms, from early red flags to more severe indicators, alongside providing insights into prevention and treatment options.

Breast Reduction Surgery Basics

Before delving into the signs of infection, it’s important to have a basic understanding of breast reduction surgery, its purposes, and the typical recovery process. This knowledge provides a foundation for why post-operative care, including infection vigilance, is crucial.

The Surgical Procedure

• Breast reduction surgery involves the removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with the patient’s body.
• The procedure can also include resizing the areola and repositioning the nipple to create a natural appearance.
• Surgeons use various techniques, depending on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome.

Common Reasons for Breast Reduction

• Physical Discomfort: Large breasts can cause neck, back, and shoulder pain, impair physical activity, and lead to posture issues.
• Psychological Impact: Oversized breasts can also affect self-esteem and body image, leading to emotional distress.
• Health Concerns: Skin irritation under the breast fold and difficulty in finding proper-fitting clothes are also common concerns.

Typical Recovery Timeline and Post-Operative Care Instructions

• The initial recovery period usually spans a few weeks, during which patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
• Patients are typically advised to wear a special support bra, avoid strenuous activities, and follow specific wound care instructions to facilitate healing.
• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any concerns, such as signs of infection.

What is a Surgical Site Infection?

In the context of breast reduction surgery, understanding surgical site infections (SSIs) is essential for effective post-operative care. An SSI is an infection that occurs at or near the surgical incision within 30 days of the operation, or within 90 days if an implant is involved. These infections can range from superficial, involving only the skin, to more severe cases that affect deeper tissues, organs, or any implanted material.

Statistics on the Prevalence of Infections after Breast Reduction

The incidence of SSIs following breast reduction, while relatively low due to advanced surgical techniques and preventive measures, still exists. The exact rate varies, but it is generally considered an infrequent yet significant complication of the procedure.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Infection

Several factors can elevate the risk of developing an SSI. Pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, obesity, and immune disorders are notable contributors. Lifestyle choices, particularly smoking and poor nutrition, can also impair wound healing, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, certain surgical factors, including the duration of the procedure and specific surgical techniques, might contribute to a higher likelihood of developing an infection.

Early Signs of Infection

The early identification of signs of infection following breast reduction surgery is crucial for prompt and effective treatment. Knowing what to look for in the days and weeks after the procedure can make a significant difference in the recovery process and overall outcome.

• Redness, Swelling, and Warmth at the Surgical Site: It’s normal to experience some redness and swelling after surgery, but if these symptoms persist or worsen, it could signal an infection. The area around the incision may feel unusually warm to the touch.
• Fever and Chills: A low-grade fever can be common after surgery, but a high fever, especially when accompanied by chills, is a more concerning sign. This indicates that the body is fighting off an infection.
• Monitoring Wound Drainage: Some drainage from the surgical site is expected, but changes in the colour, consistency, or amount of drainage can be indicative of an infection. Pus or an unusual smell from the wound drainage should not be ignored.

In this early stage, being vigilant about these signs is essential. Patients are usually still recovering at home during this period, and recognising these symptoms early can lead to quicker medical intervention. It’s important for patients to communicate any concerns to their healthcare provider as soon as they notice unusual symptoms.

Advanced Symptoms of Infection

As an infection progresses, the symptoms can become more severe and potentially more dangerous. Recognising these advanced signs is critical for seeking timely medical intervention, which can prevent further complications.

• Increased Pain and Tenderness: While some pain is expected after surgery, an increase in pain or a sudden onset of intense tenderness at the surgical site can be a sign of a deepening infection. This pain may be disproportionate to the normal discomfort associated with post-surgical healing.
• Spreading Redness and Swelling: If the redness and swelling begin to spread beyond the immediate area of the surgical site, this can indicate a spreading infection. The skin may also feel hot and appear more inflamed than in the initial stages.
• Foul-Smelling Discharge and Persistent Drainage: Any discharge from the incision that has a foul odour or continues without improvement should be a cause for concern. This is often a clear indicator that the body is fighting an infection.
• Systemic Symptoms: In some cases, the infection can lead to systemic symptoms affecting the entire body. These can include high fever, nausea, and vomiting, signalling that the infection is more serious and may require immediate medical attention.

If any of these advanced symptoms are observed, it’s crucial for patients to contact their healthcare provider or seek emergency medical care immediately. Delaying treatment for an advanced infection can lead to more severe health issues, including the potential for the infection to spread to other parts of the body.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Infection

When signs of a potential infection following breast reduction surgery are present, it’s important to accurately diagnose the condition to ensure the right treatment is administered. 

Diagnosis of Infection

• Medical Evaluation: The first step is usually a physical examination of the affected area by a healthcare provider. They will assess the symptoms, such as the extent of redness, swelling, and discharge.
• Laboratory Tests: In some cases, samples of blood or wound discharge may be taken for laboratory analysis. These tests can help identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection, which is crucial for effective treatment.
• Imaging Tests: If there is a concern about the infection spreading to deeper tissues, imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to assess the extent of the infection.

Treatment of Infection

• Antibiotics: The primary treatment for a surgical site infection is antibiotics. The type and duration of antibiotic therapy will depend on the severity of the infection and the results of any lab tests.
• Wound Care: Proper care of the wound is essential. This may involve cleaning the incision site, removing any infected tissue, and changing dressings regularly.
• Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is necessary to ensure the infection is responding to treatment. This may include frequent visits to the doctor’s office or hospital.
• Additional Surgery: In severe cases where the infection has caused extensive damage or is not responding to other treatments, additional surgery may be required to remove infected tissue and prevent further complications.

Prevention Tips for Reducing Infection Risk

Preventing an infection after breast reduction surgery is far more preferable than having to treat one. There are several measures that patients can take both before and after surgery to minimise the risk of developing an infection. These steps are crucial for a smooth recovery and optimal surgical outcomes.

Pre-Operative Measures

Prior to surgery, patients should be in the best possible health. This includes managing any existing health conditions like diabetes or obesity, which can increase infection risk. Quitting smoking and ensuring a nutritious diet are also vital. Smoking can impair wound healing, while a balanced diet supports the immune system.

Post-Operative Care

Following the surgery, it’s important to adhere strictly to the surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care. This often includes keeping the incision area clean and dry, and changing dressings as advised. Patients should avoid any activities that could strain the surgical site and delay healing, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.

Lifestyle Factors

Continuing a healthy lifestyle post-surgery is key. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and moderate exercise (as permitted by the surgeon) can enhance the body’s ability to heal and fight off potential infections. Good hygiene, especially around the surgical area, is essential to prevent the introduction of bacteria to the wound.

Regular Follow-up Appointments

Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments allows the surgeon to monitor the healing process and catch any early signs of complications, including infection.

By taking these preventive steps, patients can significantly reduce their risk of developing an infection following breast reduction surgery. This proactive approach to health and recovery is an integral part of achieving the best possible outcomes from the procedure.

What to Do if You Notice Any Symptoms

It’s important that you be evaluated by your surgeon before this problem develops into something more severe.  With early appropriate intervention your result should still be excellent.

If you are concerned, please don’t waste anytime and contact us on our 24hr helpline.

The best action is to return to your plastic surgeon as soon as possible so that they may evaluate you. They will most definitely want to make sure that your healing okay.

London Cosmetic Surgery group Berkeley Square Medical, is one of the UK’s leading providers of Aesthetic and Cosmetic Surgery. For more information about breast reduction surgery with us, please visit: https://www.berkeleysquaremedical.com/breast-reduction

References and Further Reading

• This study focuses on the impact of the 2010 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting guidelines on surgical site infection rates after breast and axillary operations. It provides insights into characterizing these infections and determining their frequency​​. (PubMed)
• Surgical site infection in reconstructive and aesthetic breast surgery – ScienceDirect: Reviews records of patients who underwent breast reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, focusing on the incidence of surgical site infection. (Science Direct)

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Sanjay Rai

Sanjay is a Senior Clinical Member at Berkeley Square Medical carrying over a decade of experience. He has assisted over 1500 surgeries carried out at the hospital supporting patients both pre and post-surgery throughout their treatment journeys. This article was written with the contribution of Dr Taimur Shoaib, our Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

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