If you're expecting a baby soon and have had breast implants, you might be wondering if the implants will affect you from being able to breastfeed.
Breastfeeding can be a difficult journey for any mum, but it can also have a lot of benefits and create an incredible bond between mum and baby. If you've had breast implants, then you might have spoken with your GP before the surgey about whether it will affect breastfeeding in the future, but to put your mind at ease, we've got the answers to some of your questions.
Can mums with implants breastfeed?
Breast implant surgery can be done in two ways, both of which shouldn't affect breastfeeding. But when incisions are made into the skin it can cause damage to the nerves surrounding the nipple, which can interfere with the signals that are needed to lactate.
If you are thinking of having implant surgery, it's important to mention to your doctor if you are planning on having a baby and if you do have plans to breastfeed.
Can there be complications with breastfeeding?
Depending on the type of incision made during the implant procedure depends on whether there are any complications.
Medical professional Dr Diana Gall said: "most implants are placed underneath the milk ducts, which avoids as many potential problems as possible."
"If the incision is made under your armpit or where your breast meets your chest wall, you're less likely encounter problems as these types of procedures don't tend to disturb the milk ducts or gladnular tissues."
If you experience any other problems it's important to speak to your GP or Health Visitor as soon as you can.
Do implants effect how much breast milk is produced?
Until your milk supply comes in towards the end of your pregnancy, or not long after giving birth, it is difficult to know if your supply will be affected by the implants.
Dr Gall said: "If surgery affected the areola (the area surrounding the nipple), you are more likely to encounter problems as nerve and tissues can be damaged. This may cause complications such as a reduce milk supply."
A lot of mums don't experience any problems at all and are able to breastfeed without any issues. But if you notice any problems or feel that you have a reduced milk supply, it's important to speak to your GP or health visitor, as they can advice on how to increase breastmilk supply naturally.
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