Can You Breastfeed Safely After Getting Implants?

Breast augmentation helps many women be more confident about their breast size and shape. But some hesitate to have the procedure because they plan to have a family and worry that this surgery may interfere with breastfeeding.

For many mothers, breastfeeding is an act of selfless love. There are several reasons for nursing your baby – including bonding, providing healthy nutrition, and boosting your growing child’s immune system.

Is Breastfeeding With Implants Difficult?

If you have breast implants, here are the challenges you might face when nursing.

• Low milk supply: Depending on the breast augmentation technique your surgeon used, you may have trouble producing enough milk to exclusively breastfeed. Some women with breast implants struggle with a limited milk supply.
• Inhibited letdown: If your nipples lose sensitivity, you may have a slow or inhibited letdown, where your breasts produce less milk.
• Sore nipples: If your nipples are ultra-sensitive, you may experience soreness that makes breastfeeding uncomfortable.

Could Implants Harm My Baby?

Researchers have not found any harmful elements in the breast milk of women with implants. Still, if small amounts of silicone get into your breast milk, it’s unlikely to harm your baby. According to the FDA, silicone is safe for infants to ingest.

How Can I Successfully Breastfeed My Baby If I Have Implants?

If you have implants and are worried about your ability to nurse an infant, here are some steps you can take.

• Work with a lactation consultant: A professional lactation consultant can get you and your baby off to the best possible start for nursing. In addition, they can give you tips for dealing with nipple sensitivity. If you have any questions about breastfeeding, consider contacting a lactation consultant before delivering your baby.
• Nurse your baby often: If you nurse your baby frequently, your body will respond by producing more milk. Your lactation consultant may suggest using a breast pump between feedings.
• Tell your pediatrician about your breast surgery: A doctor will closely monitor your baby’s weight gain to ensure your newborn is getting enough to eat.

How Should You Time Your Surgery?

If you are thinking about having breast implant surgery and still plan to become pregnant and nurse your baby, it’s wise to postpone your procedure until after you wean your child. If you already have implants and would like to have them taken out before pregnancy to avoid potential complications with nursing, an breast implant removal is a safe and effective procedure that removes the entire implants with their surgical capsules.

To schedule a discreet consultation with Dr. Mussat to learn more about breast surgery, contact our Chicago office online or call (312) 751-9000 today.