Breastfeeding and Breast Augmentations

Breastfeeding and Breast Augmentations

Many new mothers look forward to breastfeeding their baby and providing them with the essential nutrition as well as the opportunity for bonding. But for women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery or plan to have one, there can be questions and concerns about their ability to breastfeed afterwards. Do breast implants interfere with milk production? Is it safe? Let’s discuss some facts and explore some things you need to know if you’re considering or have already had breast augmentation surgery.

Is it Possible to Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?

YES! It is possible to breastfeed after breast augmentation. There are several factors that you need to know. The outcome of breastfeeding after having a breast augmentation will depend on the type of incisions you have, the placement of the implants, and how much breast tissue you have. Most women who have had breast augmentation successfully breastfeed, but it can vary from person to person.

Factors That Can Affect Breastfeeding Success

Incision Location and Types The location of your surgical incisions can impact breastfeeding. There are typically three types of incisions used in breast augmentation surgery:

Inframammary (under the breast): This type of incision is placed in the fold under the breast and is less likely to interfere with breastfeeding because it avoids the milk ducts and the region around the nipple.

Periareolar (around the areola): This incision is made around the nipple/areola complex. The location of this type of incision has the potential to damage milk ducts and the nerves responsible for milk production. Most women can still breastfeed successfully with this incision type.

Transaxillary (under the arm): This incision is made in the armpit, this avoids visible scarring around the breast. Because it is nowhere near the breast tissue or the nipple/areola, it is least likely to affect breastfeeding.

Implant Placement The placement of the breast implants can is another factor for your ability to breastfeed. Implants are typically placed either above or below the muscle.

Subglandular (over the muscle): This puts the implant directly under the breast tissue, which applies more pressure on the milk ducts and breast tissue. Many women still have no issues breastfeeding if they have sufficient breast tissue.

Submuscular (under the muscle): This placement places the implant underneath the chest muscle, leaving the milk ducts and glandular tissue more intact. This option is used by most plastic surgeons and is less likely to impact milk production.

Breast Tissue Volume Women who have more breast tissue before augmentation have an easier time breastfeeding after surgery. If you had a breast augmentation to increase the size of your breast, and you had less breast tissue beforehand, it can affect your milk production. If your augmentation included a reduction of breast tissue or any changes to the glandular tissue, it might be harder to produce enough milk.

Sensitivity of the Nerves The nerves located in your breast are crucial for breastfeeding. If the surgery damaged the nerves in the nipple or surrounding areas, this could affect your ability to breastfeed. The nipple and areola play a role in triggering your milk production. If nerves have been damaged, this could reduce sensitivity and make it harder for you to establish breastfeeding.

Can Breast Implants Affect Milk Production?

Breast implants themselves do not have a direct impact on milk production. Milk is produced by glandular tissue. Implants placed underneath the muscle do not affect the glandular tissue. If your augmentation impacts the glandular tissue or ducts, it can affect your milk supply. Women who have had multiple breast procedures such as a reduction or a lift in conjunction with a breast augmentation might experience more difficulty producing milk, as these procedures can sometimes involve the removal or damage of milk-producing tissue.

Common Concerns and Questions About Breastfeeding After Augmentation

Is breastfeeding safe with implants? YES! Breastfeeding with breast implants is considered safe. There is no evidence to suggest that breast milk from a mother with implants is harmful to a baby. Silicone and saline breast implants are both safe, and they do not leak into the breast milk.

Can breast implants affect the shape of your breasts during breastfeeding? Naturally, breastfeeding can potentially change the shape of your breasts over time, whether you have implants or not. This happens due to breast tissue stretching to adjust milk production. Some women report that their implants do not change while others notice slight changes. If you have concerns about breast sagging or changing shape, talk to your surgeon about your options for maintaining the breast size and appearance after breastfeeding.

Tips for Successful Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation

Talk to your Surgeon and OB-GYN: If you're planning to breastfeed after breast augmentation, it’s important to discuss your goals with your surgeon and your OB-GYN. Your surgeon helps you understand how your procedure could affect breastfeeding, while your OB-GYN can provide tips on how to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship.

Start Early: If you're planning to breastfeed, try to establish a good breastfeeding routine early on. Begin skin-to-skin contact with your baby as soon as possible after birth to stimulate milk production and encourage breastfeeding.

Consider a Lactation Consultant: A lactation consultant can be a good resource for new mothers. They can help you troubleshoot any challenges with latch, milk supply, or positioning.

Have Realistic Expectations: Every woman’s breastfeeding experience is different. Some may have challenges while others find it easily. Be patient with yourself and flexible with your plans. It is ok if you need to supplement with formula. The most important thing is that your baby is fed.

Conclusion

It is possible to breastfeed after a breast augmentation, though success can vary depending on different factors: surgical technique, placement of the implants, and the amount of breast tissue you had prior to surgery. By working closely with your healthcare providers and being mindful of your body’s needs, you can have a fulfilling breastfeeding experience. Remember, no every person is the same, and the best way to ensure success is to stay informed, seek support, and be kind to yourself along the way