The question of how breast implants can potentially affect one’s ability to breastfeed is one of the most common questions asked by Philadelphia patients interested in breast augmentation. Every breast procedure, including breast augmentation with implants, is personalized according to the needs and overall goals of each person. That said, Dr. David Bottger — a highly skilled board-certified plastic surgeon — understands that breastfeeding can be an important part of motherhood. He will take as much time as necessary to educate you on the impact that breast implants can have on your ability to nurse. Dr. Bottger will also explain what you can expect after your procedure with respect to your specific goals. In general, there are typically three questions associated with the effects of breast augmentation on breastfeeding:
- Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation?
- Is breastfeeding safe after breast augmentation?
- How will breastfeeding impact the results of my breast enhancement?
Is Breastfeeding Possible After Getting Implants?
In most cases, breast augmentation will not impact your ability to breastfeed. While the outcome varies from patient to patient, most women who undergo breast augmentation and could breastfeed before surgery find that they’re able to successfully nurse after their procedure. However, some studies indicate that the periareolar incision, which is placed encircling the borders of the areolas, may increase the risk of breastfeeding difficulties. If this is a concern for you, then you may want to consider a different breast augmentation incision. Dr. Bottger typically employs an inframammary incision which avoids the nerves and milk ducts of the breasts. It’s essential to always communicate your desires to Dr. Bottger so he can personalize your breast surgery accordingly.
Is Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation Safe?
Numerous studies have been conducted regarding the safety of breastfeeding with breast implants. After decades of research, the results of clinical studies have indicated that nursing after breast augmentation presents no safety risks to the baby. There is no evidence that breastfeeding after breast augmentation increases the risk of developmental defects, and breastfeeding babies whose mothers have received implants typically gain weight at a healthy rate.
Ultimately, the decision of whether the benefits of breast augmentation outweigh the potential risks is up to you. Dr. Bottger would be happy to go over the safety risks associated with breast implants and the breast augmentation procedure in person so you’re well-informed of what to expect after surgery.
Will Breastfeeding Affect My Results?
Generally speaking, patients do not have to worry about the possibility of breastfeeding impacting breast augmentation results. Since the body starts producing breast milk during the late stages of pregnancy, any potential impact to your results will have already occurred prior to breastfeeding. Dr. Bottger is happy to discuss these questions and any others you may have regarding how breastfeeding will impact the final outcome. Whenever possible, it’s recommended to wait until there are no future plans for pregnancy or nursing before receiving breast implants. This allows your breast contours to remain stable, thereby extending the longevity of your results. All in all, the best way to make a fully informed decision is to speak with Dr. Bottger about your goals in person.
If you are interested in scheduling a consultation for breast augmentation in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area, please contact Dr. David Bottger today.
Editor’s Note: The original version of this blog was posted on September 20, 2013.