<p>Total duct excision is a common therapeutic procedure for abnormal nipple discharge. However, little information is available in the literature on complication rates. A retrospective analysis was performed on a consecutive series of 87 patients who underwent surgery for abnormal nipple discharge over a period of 45 months. A questionnaire was sent to all patients in the study group enquiring about any post-operative complications. A review of the case notes of all patients was also undertaken. Subareolar duct clearance is associated with a number of minor complications, including wound infection or breakdown, sensory loss and nipple necrosis. These complications appear to be more common in smokers.</p>