Can you breastfeed following a breast implant? Generally, yes, but there are some considerations. You can breastfeed even after breast augmentation, but you need to consult your lactation consultant and surgeon. Breast milk contains a lot of nutrients for babies, and some women may need to supplement their breast milk with formula, but this isn't always necessary. After breast augmentation surgery, you may feel apprehensive.
Breast augmentation and fat transfer
The incisions you make during breast augmentation and fat transfer will not affect your ability to nurse. In general, these incisions are about three millimeters in length and are placed in the inframammary fold, just beneath the nipple. These incisions don't touch the nipple and won't cause any discomfort or letdown.
Fat that has been taken from the breast during a previous procedure might act as a permanent or temporary graft. While fat cells obtained during a fat-transfer procedure are permanently attached at the breast, most of them are eventually absorbed by the body. If the fat cells are not distributed properly, this can lead to uneven results. Fat harvested during the procedure is also collected under low pressure to avoid excessively damaging the fat cells.
Breast implants
The lack of studies on the relationship between breast implants and the ability to breastfeed may be a contributing factor to this concern. Western culture regards the breasts as a sexual organ. Therefore, advertising frequently implies that breast milk is equal to formula. Research is still needed to understand the psychosocial and physical causes of decreased breast-feeding capacity. However, the research results point to a balanced approach between health risks as well as benefits.
However, most breast augmentations are done using the same method of incision. Some surgeons may use different methods. For example, breast augmentation with fat transfer involves an incision about three millimeters long. The incision is typically made at the inframammaryfold. The incision is not required to be placed next to the nipple. It does not interfere with the letdown reflex or sensation.
Incisions around areola
These incisions located around the areola during breast augmentation are also known as periareolar. Because they are so close to the areola, these incisions are ideal for breast lift surgeries with implants. They prevent the surgeons from cutting through the nerves of the areola. This can be problematic for breastfeeders. This type of incision can be made by plastic surgeons if they have the right plan.
Hidden in plain sight are often the incisions around your areola. The transition from dark skin to light skin is gradual. The incision will remain visible for a few more months. However, it will eventually fade. Patients will not lose the sensation in their nipples or experience pain after the procedure. The recovery process of a breast lift is the same as that of augmentation.
After breast augmentation, you can breastfeed.
Breast augmentation can cause some confusion when it comes to breastfeeding. Although it is not rare, breastfeeding success may be decreased or increased in women who have had breast augmentation. One study by Cruz and Korchin included both women who attempted and did not attempt breastfeeding. The rates of breast augmentation and non-breast augmentation were almost identical at two weeks. The type of incision used did not make a difference, the authors said. However, there was a decrease in exclusive breastfeeding rates for women who had breast-augmentation.
You will be able to breastfeed after breast implant surgery if you choose the right time. Although most recovery takes only a few weeks, small nerves and blood vessels can take longer to heal. After your body has completely healed from surgery, breastfeeding should be avoided. It is recommended that women wait several years to have breast augmentation again before they attempt pregnancy. This will allow you to rest and prevent problems with your milk supply.