Breastfeeding After Implants
In honor of National Breastfeeding Month, our August blog discusses the topic of breastfeeding after breast augmentation with implants. To take action now and support breastfeeding families, follow this link to the United States Breastfeeding Committee webpage.
Many women undergo breast augmentation surgery to add fullness to their breasts and improve their overall physique. However, some patients are hesitant to undergo this surgery because they believe the insertion of breast implants will negatively affect their ability to breastfeed. Breastfeeding is safe with implants. Advances in surgical techniques, along with various studies, have allowed women to undergo breast augmentation surgery without experiencing breastfeeding complications.
To ensure that breast enhancement has the least effect on breastfeeding, it is important that the milk ducts are least disturbed during surgery. This is why the type of incision can affect whether or not problems develop during breastfeeding.
The most popular methods performed for breast augmentation include the inframammary (underneath the breast fold) or transaxillary (through the armpit) incisions. These techniques spare the nipple and the areola from undergoing any kind of distress during surgery.
Other types of incisions that can be performed for breast augmentation are the transumbilical (through the navel) and the periareolar (through the areola) incisions. These incisions are less commonly performed because they are more difficult to position the implants through, and they increase the chances of the milk ducts not working as well.
Due to genetics, not all women are naturally able to breastfeed properly. In this instance, there is a chance that breast augmentation may raise the likelihood of developing breastfeeding complications. If you would like to know more about breastfeeding after an augmentation, it is recommended that you discuss your medical and family history, as well as surgical options, with your doctor. Be sure to schedule follow-up appointments with your medical professional after the procedure is complete.
If you are interested in undergoing a breast augmentation in the Las Vegas area, we welcome you to contact Dr. George Alexander’s practice. Our surgeon is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and is regularly identified as a “top doctor” in plastic surgery by his patients and his peers. Call (702) 242-6776 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation today.
