Many women don’t realize that having breast implants generally shouldn’t impede their ability to breastfeed. This is good news for ladies who are hoping to plan for a breast augmentation as well as starting a family, as it means that nursing a baby can still be a part of their future plans.
Implant Placement and Incision Type
Women with the capacity to breastfeed before breast augmentation should continue to be able to nurse after getting breast implants. As long as the appropriate precautions are taken, implants shouldn’t interfere with the milk ducts, milk-producing glands or the nipple.
To preserve the ability to breastfeed, the most important factors are the placement of the implant, incision type and surgical skill. Placing the implants below the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) is recommended. If your surgeon uses a periareolar incision, the milk ducts should be spread rather than severed.
Breast Implant Safety
Another common question regarding breastfeeding with implants is the safety of breast implants. You can rest assured that you shouldn’t be exposing your baby to any risks if you nurse after getting breast implants. The durable, long-lasting devices have met a number of extensive safety standards and have been the subject of three decades worth of rigorous testing.
Breast Revision Surgery
While breast implants shouldn’t prevent you from nursing, the process of nursing can affect the breasts. Breastfeeding may result in the loss of volume or cause breasts to sag or change in shape. Many women choose to have a revision procedure once they have finished nursing. A breast lift combined with an updated augmentation can rejuvenate the position, size and shape of the breasts. Consult with a cosmetic surgeon who has considerable experience performing breast enhancement procedure for optimal results.
Dr. Joseph J. Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. During medical school and his 5 years of training in General Surgery, Dr. Castellano developed a strong interest in Cosmetic Surgery. He followed his residency training with an elective year of specialized training with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. From 2010-2011, he completed a fellowship in Indiana focused entirely of cosmetic surgery of the face and body. During his fellowship, he received specialized training in facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, and body contouring. Dr. Castellano received his board certification from the American College of Surgeons in 2010.
Dr. Castellano focuses on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. Additionally, he operates on numerous skin cancers, scar revisions, spider veins, and specializes in the management of aging skin with chemical peels and laser resurfacing.
Request a consultation to meet with Dr. Castellano and learn more about all his practice has to offer.