Tissue Flap Surgery for Breast Reconstruction

Many of the risks associated with breast reconstruction are the same as those with any surgery: infection, poor wound healing, bleeding, or a reaction to the anesthesia used in surgery.

Other risks associated with tissue flap surgery include:

• Tissue death if blood supply to the flap is not restored. This could cause the need for more surgery.
• Collection of blood or clear fluid in the wound.
• Ongoing pain or discomfort in the breast area.
• Muscle weakness in the area where muscle is removed.
• Abnormal scarring.

Some women are at higher risk for problems, so tissue flap surgery may not be a good choice for them. This includes women who:

• Are obese (Reference BMI Opens New Window over 35).
• Have Reference high blood pressure Opens New Window.
• Have Reference diabetes Opens New Window.
• Smoke.
• Are in poor health.

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