Implantation of breast alterations and their impact on pregnancy
Breast implants, used primarily for breast augmentation, can raise questions about their impact on breastfeeding. While the use of these artificial objects made from silicone gel does not affect pregnancy, it's important to understand their potential effects on breastfeeding.
Dr. Rajat Gupta, a board-certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience in India, ensures the use of FDA-approved breast implants. These implants, available in round or teardrop shapes and smooth or textured, are manufactured using silicone gel. The outer casing of all breast implants is also made of silicone gel, which is water repellent and forms watertight seals.
Although breast implants do not directly impact breast milk production, they can affect breastfeeding due to potential damage to nerves or milk ducts during surgery. This damage can result in reduced milk production or impaired milk let-down reflex, affecting breastfeeding effectiveness.
Surgical factors play a significant role in this risk. Implants placed above the chest muscle or incisions made around the areola/nipple area are more likely to damage milk ducts or nerves, potentially impacting breastfeeding. However, many women can still breastfeed effectively after augmentation, especially when the implant is placed under the muscle and incisions avoid the nipple area.
It's worth noting that both saline and silicone implants are generally considered safe, with no harmful effects passing into breast milk. However, women with silicone implants should consult their healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while breast implants may pose some risks to breastfeeding success due to possible nerve or duct damage, many women can breastfeed effectively afterward, depending on surgical details. Consulting a healthcare provider familiar with your implant type and surgery specifics is important for breastfeeding planning.
References: [1] American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-after-breast-augmentation/ [2] La Leche League International. (n.d.). Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/breastfeeding-after-breast-augmentation/ [3] Mayo Clinic. (2020, September 16). Breast Augmentation: What to Expect. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-augmentation/about/pac-20394922 [4] Plastic Surgery.org. (n.d.). Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation [5] The Breastfeeding Network. (n.d.). Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/bfni/breastfeeding-after-breast-augmentation/
- Dr. Rajat Gupta, a seasoned plastic surgeon, emphasizes the use of FDA-approved breast implants, manufactured using silicone gel, for breast augmentation procedures that have aesthetic and cosmetic applications.
- It's crucial for women considering breast augmentation to be informed about the potential impact on breastfeeding, as surgical factors such as implant placement and incision locations may inadvertently damage milk ducts or nerves.
- Despite the risks associated with breast implants and their possible effects on breastfeeding, many women can successfully breastfeed after the surgery, ensuring the health and wellness of both mother and child.
