Some women are not satisfied with the size or shape of their breasts. That's why they choose to do breast augmentation surgery, also known as breast implants. But there are concerns, will they still be able to breastfeed in the future? Let's find the answer in this article.
Use of breast implants
Most women who undergo breast augmentation surgery perform the surgery at childbearing age when a person is likely to become pregnant and breastfeed. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that babies should still receive breast milk, even if it is as little as possible, rather than not at all. Breast milk is necessary for your little one to achieve optimal growth, development, and health.
But how? Mothers can still breastfeed, although there are some things to remember. Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis, breast augmentation is associated with a 40% reduction in the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding. However, the research was limited to only 3 small studies.
Breastfeeding while using breast implants
Most women with breast implants can breastfeed, although there are some exceptions. This depends on the original state of the breast before surgery. Breast implants are placed behind the mammary glands so the milk supply is unaffected. In addition to the original condition of the breast, the location and depth of the incision made are also of influence, which may be less or not at all.
The milk supply is safe if the surgery is complete and the areola (the dark area around the nipple) is intact. Meanwhile, when the nerves in the areola are damaged, the feeling of breastfeeding in the baby will decrease, so milk production may be disrupted because the prolactin and oxytocin hormones do not rise too high.
On the other hand, when surgery is performed by making an incision under the breast, through the armpit, or the navel, breastfeeding is less likely to be disrupted. There are no clinical reports regarding the use of silicon for baby problems such as congenital disabilities, nor have there been any levels of silicon in breast milk.
Still, breast implants carry some risks, such as:
- Additional surgery for corrective action or removal of the implant
- Capsular contracture is the formation of scar tissue around the implant that causes pressure on the chest.
- Changes in breast and nipple sensation
- Chest pain
- Implant rupture
Using breast implants does not necessarily affect breastfeeding, but what about the other way around? Breastfeeding does not affect the placement of implants, but the shape and size of the breasts will be different when breastfeeding. It is the same as normal breastfeeding mothers who do not use silicone implants.
Mothers can still breastfeed even if they use breast implants.
Breastfeeding tips with implants
Like normal nursing mothers, several things can be done to increase milk production in mothers with breast implants so that babies get the nutrition they need and can grow and develop properly. Here are the tips:
- Breastfeed the baby about 8 to 10 times a day to stimulate milk production, and do this alternately on both breasts.
- Periodically pump the breast milk to empty the breast, and more milk can be produced.
- Ensure the baby is breastfeeding in the correct position to get maximum milk intake. The trick is to ensure the baby's mouth is in the areola and the nipple is deep in the mouth. Help by holding the breast just behind the areola when the baby is about to be fed.
- Use formula milk, provided you have consulted a pediatrician.
Ensure the baby's mouth sufficiently covers the areola to maximize milk production.
So, mothers using breast implants can still breastfeed their babies properly. If you are concerned, do not hesitate to discuss this with your midwife or pediatrician. Breast milk is the primary baby food source and should be given. Let's read other maternity articles only on Fitie!