The Truth Behind Breastfeeding and Breast Augmentation

Written by Dr. Sean Maguire on August 14, 2015

As a leading plastic surgeon in Louisville, Dr. Sean Maguire often meets with new mothers who are concerned about the effect breastfeeding could have on the appearance of their breasts, especially after they have undergone breast augmentation surgery. In honor of National Breastfeeding Month, Dr. Maguire reveals the truth about breastfeeding and breast augmentation.

Breastfeeding with Implants is Possible

Most women with breast implants can breastfeed. However, there are a few situations in which breast implants can interfere with breastfeeding.

There are several different choices of incisions and implant placements, and whichever ones you decide on may affect your ability to breastfeed properly. For example, incisions made around the edge of the nipple (periareolar incisions) can disturb your milk ducts. If you are planning on breastfeeding after your breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Maguire may recommend placing implants below the chest muscle, as this is less likely to disturb the milk ducts. During your initial consultation with Dr. Maguire, be sure to discuss whether or not you plan on nursing after your surgery.

Breastfeeding with Implants Does Not Worsen Breast Sag

Over time, women can expect a certain degree of breast sag. The collagen and elastin that are responsible for perky breasts deteriorate over time, while an increased breast size during pregnancy can stretch the skin. Breastfeeding too can have this effect on breasts. When nursing, a woman’s breasts tend to swell due to milk production. Once the mother stops breastfeeding, her breasts typically shrink, causing the stretched skin to droop and the breasts to sag. This is a common occurrence among nursing mothers.

But what about women who breastfeed with breast implants? According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breastfeeding does not cause or worsen breast sag in breast augmentation patients. While breast augmentation patients do experience breast sag after nursing, it is not related to breastfeeding. Rather, breast sagging is caused by changes brought on by pregnancy itself.

About Breast Augmentation Surgery

Before your breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Maguire will meet with you one-on-one to discuss with you your personal concerns and goals regarding your breasts. He will also discuss with you which incision patterns and implant placement options are best depending on your goals, anatomical needs and whether or not you plan on breastfeeding after surgery.

The procedure begins with Dr. Maguire placing you under general anesthesia. He will then place the breast implants on your chest using the chosen incision and implant placement option previously discussed. After he’s done placing the implants, Dr. Maguire will place soft bandages and a surgical bra over the treatment area to minimize swelling. After the procedure is complete, you will be taken to a room to rest while the general anesthesia wears off. Many of Dr. Maguire’s patients can resume their regular routine after five days.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Maguire

Are you interested in learning more about breast augmentation surgery? Dr. Maguire has helped hundreds of women achieve their desired breast size and shape through breast augmentation surgery. Schedule a personal appointment with Dr. Maguire by calling (502) 897-7546 today.

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