Effects of Breast Augmentation on Breast Feeding
Understanding Breast-Feeding Before and After Breast Implants
Planning to have breast enlargement cosmetic surgery? It is important to take the time to learn as much as possible about this procedure. Experts generally say you shouldn’t worry about breast implants if you’re planning to breastfeed, but this doesn’t stop the many questions from racing your mind.
- Will breastfeeding be a challenging experience?
- Are there any risks involved for me or the baby?
- Will the implants affect lactation?
- Will nursing affect the appearance of my breasts?
And many more
In this article, we’ll endeavor past the blanket answer and examine in more detail how breast augmentation affects breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding after augmentation is possible, but may not be without some problems.
Breast Milk Production After Augmentation
Breastfeeding is absolutely possible after augmentation. Most women do have milk, but many do not have the full supply. Studies have shown that breast surgery, including biopsy, augmentation and reduction, is likely to result in reduced milk supply. Although researchers aren’t sure why, it’s likely that milk ducts are damaged during surgery, or that pressure from implants negatively affects breast tissue. If your augmentation appears to be causing inadequate milk supply, keep in mind that there are various ways to increase production of milk.
The worry factor
Experts at the University of Puerto Rico examined 160 new mothers who had previously had an augmentation. It was established that although the size and location of the incision did not influence nursing success, 86% of the mothers who worried breastfeeding would hurt the appearance of their breasts had problems nursing.
After making this observation, the researchers reassured that while repeated pregnancies could lead to drooping of the breasts over time, nursing alone doesn’t affect the appearance of augmented breasts.
Your Nipples may be less sensitive to the baby
If your breasts were surgically enlarged with saline implants or silicone, then it’s possible your nipple will be less (or more) sensitive than normal. It’s also possible that you may experience mastitis, chills, pain, or fever that’s more intense than usual.
The type of surgery plays a role in breastfeeding
The kind of surgery you had might have a role in determining whether you experience difficulties breastfeeding. For instance, an incision through the armpit or under the crease of the breast shouldn’t cause any trouble. However, an incision in the vicinity of the areola does increase chances that you’ll have difficulties with breastfeeding. This kind of incision will almost certainly reduce nerve response.
If an implant is positioned directly above the glandular tissue, there’s a high probability it’ll apply pressure on glandular tissue and impede milk flow. This could result in reduced production of milk over time.
What is the best course of action to avoid breastfeeding problems after augmentation?
Let your surgeon know that you want to breastfeed
Before you go ahead with the procedure, let your cosmetic surgeon know that you intend to breastfeed in the future. This way, your surgeon will be able to recommend the best course of action. You may also want to consider postponing the procedure until after the pregnancy.
There are certain rare conditions where nursing may be more difficult after placement of an implant. By letting your plastic surgeon know well in advance, you may help avert unfavorable outcomes.
If you have any more questions or concerns relation to breastfeeding with implants, feel free to contact us at 225-412-2165
