It is a very common myth that all mothers with implants will have trouble breastfeeding. The truth? When pregnant women or women who are TTC have had breast surgery, they ask this question with undue concern. Despite what you may hear, many women will have no trouble after breast surgery. The answer to the question “Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation surgery?” is: It depends. There are many variables that influence whether a woman will be able to breastfeed naturally after her procedure. We’ll break down those variables in this post and answer the most common FAQs!

If you had breast augmentation surgery in the past and are concerned about breastfeeding, the best answers are always found with your doctor. While we can provide you general information about breast implants and breastfeeding, every woman is unique. Have a candid conversation with your doctor about your concerns and what you can do to ensure success.

FAQ #1: Can I breastfeed if I have breast implants?

The short answer? Yes, you may be able to breastfeed if you have breast implants. The long answer is that it depends on a variety of factors. Some of the variables that will impact your ability to breastfeed include the following.

  • The type of implants
  • The placement of the implants
  • The method of surgery

The main concern of most mothers is that the chemicals in your breast implants will mix with breast milk. This is why the type of implants is a concern. While some implants are made with saline, others contain silicone. Most healthcare providers claim there is no harmful effect if saline mixes with your breast milk. However, silicone may be slightly different. Unless your breast implant with silicone ruptures directly into the milk duct, it is unlikely that your baby could consume silicone via breast milk. Incidents of this occurring are extremely rare. While some providers say breastfeeding with silicone implants is okay, you should speak to your doctor about your unique condition.

FAQ #2: What problems may I encounter while breastfeeding with implants?

If you encounter any issues during breastfeeding, they may be caused by the method of surgery used. It is possible for nerves, milk ducts, and milk glands to be damaged during implant surgery. Injured nerves can decrease the feeling in your nipple area, which may reduce your let-down response. This response occurs when milk is released from the glands to the milk ducts, making it available to your baby. In addition, if you have damaged milk ducts as a result of your surgery, the amount of milk made by your breasts may decrease. Finally, depending on their placement, breast implants may pinch milk ducts, block the flow of breast milk and make your breasts swell.

FAQ #3: Are there any risks to me or my baby if I breastfeed with implants?

There are no known risks to babies from breastfeeding successfully with implants. There is also no sign of birth defects in babies born to mothers with breast implants.

However, breast implants do pose some risks to the person, though, such as the following.

  • Changes in breast and nipple sensation
  • Breast pain
  • Capsular contracture, which occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant causing squeezing
  • Possibility of needing additional surgeries for corrections or removal
  • Rupture of implants

Quick Breastfeeding Tips for Women with Implants

As mentioned, successful breastfeeding with implants is possible. To ensure the best experience for you and your baby, there are a few steps you can take.

  • Make sure your baby is latched correctly. A correct latch helps your baby get the right amount of milk at each feeding. You know your baby is latched correctly if you can hear your baby swallow, your baby is relaxed taking large mouthfuls, the breast/nipple do not hurt, your nipple is the same shape when your baby is done breastfeeding and your breast is smooth (no wrinkles/dimples) when breastfeeding.
  • Make sure your baby is getting enough milk. Your baby is getting enough breast milk if he or she has 6 to 8 wet diapers and 3 to 4 bowel movements each day. Also, your baby is getting enough milk if he or she is gaining weight and breastfeeds 8 to 12 times each day. Make sure you are allowing your baby to breastfeed for as long as he or she is able.
  • Increase your milk supply. Use a breast pump after each feeding to help stimulate your breasts to make more milk. The breast pump also helps you empty each of your breasts completely. Breast massage also may help stimulate your breasts and increase your milk supply. Feed your baby 8 to 12 times each day to increase your milk supply.

Dr. Berlet Can Help You

Dr. Anthony Berlet has over 20 years of experience helping women with breast implants in the New Jersey and New York City areas. If you have breast implants and are expecting or trying to conceive, our caring and experienced staff can help you. We can answer any lingering questions you may have about your implants and about how to approach breastfeeding post-procedure. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!