What Moms Should Know About Breastfeeding With Implants

Breast augmentation is one of the most effective ways for women to get the curves they desire. In fact, many studies show how this cosmetic surgery can improve not only physical appearance but self-confidence as well. If you are considering getting implants, you may be concerned about your ability to breastfeed in the future. At SSK Plastic Surgery, we can successfully perform breast augmentation with these goals in mind.

While breast implants should not negatively affect the nursing process, it is understandable for women to have some questions or concerns. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi is proud to educate patients about their options and personalize breast augmentation surgery based on their needs. Learn more about the factors that determine breastfeeding success by scheduling a consultation at our clinic in Newport Beach, CA.

Can implant material leak into breast milk?

Patients should know that research on the safety and effectiveness of breast implants is an ongoing process. The most common types of implants, saline and silicone, are both FDA-approved devices that have been proven safe and effective to use in individuals for many years, often providing outstanding results for the purpose of breast augmentation. One topic of concern for mothers is whether breast implants pose any health risk to their newborns. In particular, women want to know whether saline or silicone implants can leak into their breast milk.

Fortunately, it is not possible for either material to contaminate breast milk, even if a patient has suffered a rare implant rupture. Saline leaking from implants is safely absorbed back into the body, while ruptured silicone implants generally remain in place on the chest wall. During your private consultation with Dr. Kelishadi, he will take the time to learn your objectives for breast augmentation and breastfeeding in the future. Together, we can define your expectations and lay out the proper path to achieving that goal.

What about breast implants and breastfeeding?

The journey through pregnancy and childbirth can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time mothers in Newport Beach, CA. If you are concerned about breast implants and breastfeeding, Dr. Kelishadi will explain the process in full. Based on the incision type and original state of the breasts prior to surgery, nursing should be possible in most cases. It is important to remember that breastfeeding can be a struggle for many women, whether or not they have breast implants.

During breast augmentation surgery, implants are generally placed between the breast and chest wall. This technique allows us to avoid interfering with the breast ducts or mammary glands, where the milk is excreted. Keep in mind that implants may affect the ability to produce a full milk supply, which depends on the surgical technique performed as well as scar tissue. The only way to guarantee that your breastfeeding abilities are not affected is to wait until you have completed your family to augment your breasts.

What are some common breast augmentation side effects?

After breast augmentation surgery, the staff at SSK Plastic Surgery will schedule the appropriate follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress. Patients are usually allowed to shower the next day but should avoid submerging the incisions in water for about 3 – 4 weeks. To seal the incision, Dr. Kelishadi uses skin glue or fine skin tape applied over the incisions. Most sutures are dissolvable and support the closure over a short period of 2 – 6 months. Based on your occupation and comfort level, individuals can usually return to work and regular activities in just a couple of weeks.

Whether patients choose saline or silicone breast implants, it is essential to monitor the implants and see Dr. Kelishadi for appropriate checkups. The FDA also recommends that women with silicone implants regularly schedule MRI screenings after their surgery to detect any ruptures. Please report any breast augmentation side effects or worrying symptoms such as changes to the breast tissue, including swelling and soreness in the breasts, discomfort and pain, or changes in nipple sensation. This may be a sign of an underlying issue that should be addressed right away.

Schedule your breast implant consultation

When it comes to breast augmentation and other kinds of cosmetic surgery, the staff at SSK Plastic Surgery is committed to ongoing patient education. As part of this commitment, Dr. Sean Kelishadi will thoroughly explain the details of breast augmentation and breastfeeding and address your questions and concerns. As a leading plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Kelishadi has the skill and experience necessary to help you make an informed decision. To learn about breast implants and breastfeeding, breast augmentation side effects, and more, we encourage you to schedule a consultation today at our trusted facility.