The Truth Behind Breastfeeding and Breast Implants

A common question Dr. Kayastha receives from breast augmentation patients is, “Is breastfeeding with implants safe?” As a leading plastic surgeon in New York, Dr. Kayastha understands there are a lot of misconceptions and rumors regarding this topic. In this blog post, Dr. Kayastha shares the truth regarding implants and nursing with patients seeking breast implants in Upstate New York.

Breastfeeding with Implants is Possible

Many women worry their implants will leak and contaminate their breast milk, but the odds of this occurring are low. Modern breast implants are stronger and safer than ever before. Saline implants are made of sterile salt water. Should an implant leak, the woman’s body absorbs the liquid, posing no threat to her or her baby. Silicone implants are made of gel and not liquid. If an implant ruptures, no liquid is released into the body.

While breastfeeding with implants is safe, proper breastfeeding can depend on the incisions used during surgery. During your initial consultation with Dr. Kayastha, be sure to discuss whether or not you plan on nursing after your surgery so he can find the surgical approach that best fits your needs and goals.

For best results, it is highly recommended that you not undergo breast augmentation surgery until you are finished having children.  Your breast tissue and skin elasticity change during and after pregnancy and nursing, affecting the shape and size of the breast. Dr. Kayastha recommends you wait until you are finished weaning your children to have your implants placed.

The Implant Incision Pattern Matters

During breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha can use one of three main incision patterns:

• The periareolar approach involves making a circular incision around the areola. Because the incision is placed close to the nipple, the nerves and milk ducts may be at risk. If you are planning on nursing in the future, Dr. Kayastha may place your implants using another pattern.

• The inframammary approach is the most common incision used by Dr. Kayastha. The incision is placed underneath the natural breast crease and away from the nerves near the nipples. This approach avoids the milk ducts and is recommended for women who plan on breastfeeding after surgery.

• The transaxillary approach places the incision under the arm, the armpit area. This method does not interfere with breastfeeding; however, it is only used for submuscular placement of saline implants.

To learn more about breast augmentation or other breast surgery procedures with Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, contact us today. A friendly member of our medical team will be happy to answer all of your questions. Schedule a one-on-one consultation today by calling (518) 346-3125.