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subject: Nursing Following A Breast Augmentation Procedure [print this page]


Women of all shapes, sizes and ages choose to have breast augmentation surgery for a wide variety of reasons: reconstruction of the chest after cancer surgery, to enlarge "small" breasts, or to create a symmetrical look to an uneven chest. One item young women must consider is their desire to breastfeed a baby in the coming years after surgery. Some procedures allow breastfeeding with little problem, but others have the possibility of preventing the option altogether.

The shell that is filled with either saline or silicone should be placed behind the pectoral muscle in order to allow the best chance for breastfeeding without problem from pressure exerted on the milk ducts. The two incisions that allow for this placement without significantly damaging the milk ducts are the incisions made either below the breast (at the point where it and the chest wall meet) or at the underarm. These two incision locations, combined with a shell that is inserted behind the muscle, give the best chance for nursing at any point after surgery - whether it's a year or several years in the future.

The only incision option that is almost certain to cause a problem is an incision at the base of the areola. The lower milk-producing ducts are cut increasing chances of an insufficient milk supply for your baby. Experts have also found that shell placed in front of the pectoral muscle typically results in extra pressure on the milk ducts and may also cause problems creating a sufficient milk supply.

When you're researching breast augmentation options, be sure to let your surgeon know that you are interested in nursing a baby one day. He can advise you on the best options for this type of surgery - the ones that will give you the best chance of a successful breastfeeding experience later on.

Some women may have concerns about silicone implants causing silicone to leak into their milk supply and enter their baby's body. Few studies have been done concerning this issue, but those that have been completed have found that the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the potential problems of extra silicone in the milk. It's also interesting to note that more silicone is found in cow's milk or in formula mixtures than is found in a mother's milk supply after she has silicone implants.

If you or your husband is concerned about the effects that breast augmentation may have on your future children, whether you're worried about milk production, or the quality of your milk following breast augmentation surgery, be sure to talk to your physician before the procedure is done. He can provide plenty of information so you can make a fully informed decision regarding the type of surgery you should get, or if you should wait to have surgery done until after you've had your children. A lactation consultant can set your mind at ease and help you deal with nursing issues that may arise from either the surgical procedure you've had done, or any concerns associated with silicone implants.

by: Anders Abadie




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