Many women choose to have breast augmentation surgery before having children. Breastfeeding is possible for most women after breast implants, but there can be added challenges. There is no exact way to tell if you will encounter problems till after your child is born and you attempt breastfeeding. Here are some issues that could occur and information to help you prepare for breastfeeding with breast implants.
Damaged Tissue, Nerves, and Glands
Breast augmentation surgery can damage milk ducts, glands, and nerves. Injured nerves can decrease feeling in the nipple area and cause issues with your let down response. The let down response is when the milk is released from the glands to the ducts so that it is ready for your baby. If the milk ducts are damaged it can decrease the amount of milk available. Sometimes breast implants can cause the milk ducts to be pinched which can lead to swelling and engorgement. Breast implant incisions that are in the armpit, under the breast or in the belly button will cause less damage than incisions made under the areola.
Placement Matters
The area in which your breast implants are placed can also affect your ability to breastfeed. It is recommended to have them placed under the chest muscle to reduce the amount of damage done to the milk ducts and nerves. If they are placed under the chest muscle this will also keep silicone from leaking into your breast milk. If you had breast augmentation surgery because you had underdeveloped (hypoplastic) breasts, you may have trouble developing a big enough supply to keep up with your baby.
Formula Supplementation
Some mothers who run into this problem choose to breastfeed as much as they can and supplement with formula. If you choose to supplement, thoroughly research formulas and choose the best option for your baby. When choosing to both breast and bottle feed it is important to use a slow flow nipple with the bottle so that your baby will not get frustrated when going back to the breast. If your baby is having six to eight wet diapers a day and three to four bowel movements then he or she is likely recieving enough milk. If you have questions or doubts that your baby is getting enough milk consult with a lactation consultant or pediatrician. Some lactation specialists will weigh the baby before and after a feeding to see exactly how much milk your baby is getting. This can help you decide if supplementing is an option to explore.
