Is breastfeeding with implants harder?

The Challenges of Breastfeeding with Implants
Breastfeeding is a natural process that many new mothers cherish, but for those with breast implants, the experience can come with unique challenges. While it is entirely possible to breastfeed after having implants, various factors can influence the ease and success of the process.
Understanding the Impact of Implants
The placement of breast implants—whether behind the milk glands or under the chest muscles—generally does not affect milk supply. However, the surgical technique used can play a significant role. Incisions made around the areola may disrupt milk ducts, potentially leading to difficulties in breastfeeding. In contrast, incisions made under the breast or through the armpit are less likely to cause issues.
Potential Complications
Women with larger implants may experience additional complications, such as numbness or damage to breast tissue, which can hinder breastfeeding efforts. This can result in a lower milk supply or difficulties with engorgement, making the breastfeeding experience more challenging. Furthermore, the psychological aspect of breastfeeding can also be affected; mothers may feel anxious about their ability to produce enough milk or face discomfort during the process.
Expert Insights
Experts emphasize that most women with breast implants can successfully breastfeed, but they should be prepared for potential hurdles. Dr. Gedge Rosson from Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights that many misconceptions exist regarding breastfeeding after breast surgery, and with the right support, many mothers can navigate these challenges.
Support and Resources
For mothers facing difficulties, consulting with a lactation specialist can be invaluable. These professionals can provide tailored strategies to enhance milk production and address issues like sore nipples or engorgement. Additionally, understanding that any amount of breast milk is beneficial can help alleviate some of the pressure new mothers may feel.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding with implants can be more complicated, it is certainly achievable for many women. Awareness of the surgical implications, proactive support, and a positive mindset can significantly enhance the breastfeeding experience for mothers with breast implants.

Can I breastfeed with implants over the muscle?

The answer is generally yes, you can breastfeed with implants.

What is the negative impact of breast implants?

However, there are risks associated with breast implants, including breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), breast implant-associated squamous cell carcinoma (BIA-SCC) and systemic symptoms commonly referred to as breast implant illness (BII) that some patients attribute to their implants, …

Does implant affect breast milk?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
If it’s fitted on or after day 21, you’ll need to use additional contraception such as condoms for the next 7 days. The implant is safe to use while breastfeeding and will not affect your baby or milk supply.

What happens to nipples after implants?

Changes in nipple sensation are very common after breast augmentation, but the good news is, they typically resolve. Feeling less sensation or more sensation than normal are common. Most women will return to normal nipple sensation within a few months of surgery. Very rarely, nipple sensation will not return.

Do breasts sag after breastfeeding with implants?

Women contemplating having breast augmentation do not need to fret over the myth that their breasts will sag after breastfeeding. The investment made will not be lost as the effects of pregnancy induce changes of the body naturally.

Can breast implants cause low milk supply?

Breast augmentation, lift, and reduction
Breast implants below the muscle usually affect milk production less than implants above the muscle. Incisions around the areola and surgery that completely detaches the areolae and nipples are more likely to cause reductions in milk production.

Does breast implants make your breast hard?

Capsular contracture is the hardening of the breast around the implant. It can occur in the tissue surrounding one or both implants. This hardening causes the tissue to tighten, which can be painful. Capsular contracture may be more common following infection, hematoma and seroma.

Do implants make it harder to breastfeed?

In my study, I found implants don’t necessarily have an impact on the mother’s ability to secrete milk. I did note women with a periareolar incision (around the base of the nipple) had more problems with breastfeeding. However, recent studies2-3 have shown no correlation between incision type and breastfeeding ability.

Are there side effects of breastfeeding with implants?

You may have a couple of side effects because of your implants, including more intense breast engorgement (when your breast is hard, swollen and feels full). If you get mastitis, the pain and fever may be slightly worse than for other women.

Do breasts feel different with implants?

After breast augmentation surgery, it is common to experience some changes in sensation in the breasts. This can vary from person to person and may include temporary or permanent numbness, hypersensitivity, or changes in nipple sensitivity.