Do Breast Implants Have An Effect On Breastfeeding?

By Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

Do you have a breast augmentation? Have you heard that you won’t be able to breastfeed because of them? Well, that is just simply is not true. Rest assured mamas! You can still absolutely breastfeed your baby with breast implants. Most moms who have had breast implants will produce milk; but it is important to know that breast implants may have some impact on your breastfeeding journey. Know the facts. Be prepared. And let us help you bust through the myths so you can get off to the best start with breastfeeding!

Here’s everything you need to know about breastfeeding with implants.

Is Breastfeeding With Implants Safe For My Baby?

The main concern with breastfeeding and implants is the risk they will burst, leak, and contaminate your milk. Implants can be filled with either saline or silicone, both of which have low levels of toxicity. According to the CDC, there is no contraindication with implants and breastfeeding. The risk of breast milk contamination from implants is extremely low. It’s actually riskier not to feed your baby breast milk than to nurse with breast implants. There is currently no documented reports of infant contamination by breastfeeding with implants. Start the conversation with your doctor if you continue to be concerned about breastfeeding with breast implants.

Type of Surgery Is Important

Research tells us, breast implants that have been placed under the chest muscle are less likely to damage nerves and negatively impact breastfeeding. Was your nipple removed during surgery? Incisions made around the areola can affect the nerves. Yet incisions made under the breasts or belly button are less likely to have any influence on nerve damage. Unfortunately, no matter the type of breast surgery, it can still have effects on the nerves, ducts, and glandular tissue of the breast. Injured nerves can reduce the feeling in your nipples which can impact your milk let down response creating issues with low milk supply. Scar tissue can prevent milk from flowing freely putting moms with breast implants at a higher risk for engorgement. In the early weeks, focus on skin to skin, frequent nursing or pumping, and have a support system. Proper breastfeeding management right from the start will help you be successful and meet your breastfeeding goals.

Will I Make Enough Milk?

We won’t know until after the baby’s born and you start making milk whether you will have low milk supply. Most moms with implants make plenty of milk and never need to supplement yet there are reports of breastfeeding moms who struggle with low milk supply. In the event you are not producing enough milk, you will want to start pumping right away with a Spectra Baby hospital strength pump. Work with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant prenatally to review your history, address your concerns, and customize a plan to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.

Remember Mama, breastfeeding is so much more than just nutrition. Every drop of breastmilk is pure love! Breastfeeding with implants is totally possible. Whether or not you will have a full or partial milk supply really depends on the type of surgery you underwent. At Spectra baby USA, we support you and we’re here for you! Join our Facebook support groups, chat with a IBCLC, and find a local Spectra Baby Certified IBCLC to get support when you need it most.