One of the most common worries women have about a potential breast augmentation is their ability to breast feed sometime in the future. This is a very valid concern and something that a woman should discuss with her surgeon during the breast augmentation consultation. However, you can breathe a little easier knowing that overall, there is only a small chance that breast enhancement will disrupt the chance to breast feed. Most women will go on to nurse their babies without issue.
The ability to preserve the full function of milk glands during a breast augmentation procedure will depend on the exact surgery performed, and the individual patient’s preexisting conditions. Techniques that involve manipulation of the glandular tissue hold the most risk for disruption of the milk producing glands. This includes a breast lift (mastopexy) and breast reduction, especially as these surgeries often involve the nipple/areola, as well. Techniques that involve a complete severance of the nipple/areola area hold a higher risk for breast feeding issues.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation with saline or silicone hold the least risk for issues with breast feeding. Certain techniques are less likely to involve glandular tissue, including axillary (arm pit) and inframammary (along the breast crease) incisions. During your consultation, your surgeon will help you decide on the best technique that combines aesthetics with function.
Breast Lift
A breast lift holds a slightly higher risk for future breast feeding, as the procedure may disrupt the natural glandular tissue. However, the extent of the lift will determine just how much glandular tissue, including the milk-producing glands, is affected during surgery. A board certified plastic surgeon can decide if a breast lift is recommended, especially if pregnancy is expected in the future. He/she can then help to choose the right technique for the safest and most natural-looking results.
Breast Reduction
The enhancement procedure posing the highest risk to a woman’s ability to nurse in the future is the breast reduction. This is because the technique often includes extensive removal of glandular tissue, reshaping the breast and resizing the nipple/areola. Most women, however, still retain the ability to produce an adequate amount of milk to nurse, providing the necessary antibodies and nutrients for their baby.
A Breast Augmentation Consultation at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery
Knowing the difference between breast feeding myths and reality empowers a woman and frees her from unnecessary stress. If you are hoping to breast feed after a breast augmentation procedure, speak with a board certified, experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Paul Vitenas, is Houston’s number one breast augmentation specialist, and he can explain the chances for breast feeding success during your consultation. During this one-on-one appointment, Dr. Vitenas will perform a physical examination, listen to your concerns, and make a detailed, informed suggestion on how to move forward, through a custom-tailored breast enhancement treatment plan.
Ease your mind, and look out for your body, by trusting in Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery for your breast augmentation procedure. Call our office at (281) 407-7428 to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Vitenas.