Breast augmentation has been the most popular cosmetic procedure over a decade in the U.S. As compared to 2000, 89% more breast augmentation procedures were performed in 2016. Innovations in technology with new type of implants and new techniques employed in surgery are some reasons why breast augmentation and breast implants are popular.
With breast implant procedures gaining popularity many women want to know if breastfeeding with implants are safe and advisable. Breastfeeding is obviously the best choice for your baby and provides all the nourishment required for the first six months.
Is breast feeding possible with implants?
With the right techniques and guidance on correct positioning and latching, many women who have implants can go on to breastfeed. The materials used in implants such as titanium and silicone have not been found to have any harmful effects on the baby in studies.
Consulting Dr. Lewis Andres, who is a leading Phoenix breast augmentation specialist, can help you understand your options.
There are some factors that can interfere with breastfeeding. They include:
- The incision’s location: To insert implants incisions may be made across the areola or below the breasts near the armpits. When an incision cuts across the areola, the nerves and milk ducts may be cut as well which affects milk production. But with an incision below the breast, the milk ducts are not affected and it could be possible to breastfeed.
- Placement of implants: Breast implants could be placed over the muscle or underneath it depending on various factors. The over the muscle or ‘Sub-glandular involves placing the implant behind the breast tissue and top of chest muscle. When implants are placed under the muscle the procedure is called “sub-muscular placement.” Many experts believe placing the implant below the glandular tissue can interfere with milk flow as compared to sub-muscular placement.
- Formation of scar tissue: Capsular contracture is a condition where the scar tissue forms and constricts the implant resulting in painful and stiff breasts. The risk of capsular contracture could be high with mastitis or inflammation of breast glands that can occur in breastfeeding women. Mastitis can exacerbate the inflammation and pain for women with implants while it can also affect milk supply.
- Excessive or reduced sensitivity: Some women experience excessive sensitivity of breasts and nipples after implants. This may make breastfeeding very painful and difficult. Other women experience reduced sensitivity which can impact the normal neurohormonal reflex mechanism of milk flow.
- Functional tissue availability: When breast reconstruction surgery has been performed in addition to implant placement, there could be insufficient functional breast tissue which also can hamper milk production. Although the milk production in this case is not directly linked to breast implant, having an implant can exacerbate the problem. Studies have found a possible connection between the shape or size of the breasts and the amount of functional tissue. Certain shapes such as tubular or widely spaced breasts can have lesser amount of functional tissue.
Dr. Lewis Andres is a leading specialist in breast implants. He can guide you on breast augmentation options and answer any questions on the possibilities of breastfeeding with implants.
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