Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that involves the creation of a new breast following removal of cancerous breast tissue. There are two major forms of breast cancer reconstruction: implant reconstruction, which involves insertion of a silicone or saline pouch beneath the breast skin; and autologous tissue reconstruction, which involves the use of tissue from another region of a patient's body to recreate the breast. Patients should review the potential complications from breast reconstruction surgery with a doctor before having this procedure performed.
Fluid Accumulation
One of the most common complications from breast reconstruction surgery is fluid accumulation, explain medical experts with the Ohio State University. Affected patients can develop excess fluid within the breast or upper body following surgery, which can cause the skin to appear puffy, swollen or enlarged. The affected body region can feel achy or sore and may be tender to the touch. As the surgical site begins to heal, fluid collection gradually decreases. Patients who experience persistent or extensive swelling or fluid accumulation should seek additional care from a doctor.
Scar Tissue or Skin Death
Patients who undergo breast reconstruction surgery can develop scar tissue as a complication of this procedure. Scar tissue can appear red, raised or discolored and may be embarrassing to certain patients. Additionally, patients may experience tissue death, or necrosis, at the surgical site, warn American Cancer Society health professionals. Tissue death can cause the affected skin region to appear dark or black in color. Patients should consult a physician to discuss ways to avoid scar tissue or tissue necrosis complications after breast reconstruction surgery.
Numbness, Tingling or Itching
After breast reconstruction surgery, patients can experience unusual sensations of numbness or tingling within the upper arms. These sensations are temporary, but can extend down the sides of a patient's arms. As the breast incision site begins to heal, patients can experience intense itching of the breast tissue, explain medical professionals with Macmillan Cancer Support. Patients should not scratch at the itchy skin, as scratching can damage the incision site and may increase a patient's risk of developing a skin infection.
Restricted Movement
Patients who choose autologous breast reconstructive surgery can experience additional complications following surgery. Tissue removal from the abdomen or back to reconstruct the breast can lead to restricted movement in certain patients, according to Macmillan Cancer Support. Affected patients may find it difficult to bend over or lift certain items after surgery. Though this complication is temporary, additional recovery time is necessary to allow healing of the additional surgical sites.
References
- Macmillan Cancer Support: Possible Complications After Breast Reconstruction
- American Cancer Society: Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
- The Ohio State University Medical Center: Breast Reconstruction
- Oregon Health and Science University: Breast Reconstruction
- Penn Medicine: Breast Reconstruction Surgery
