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Will Breast Augmentation Affect Breastfeeding After Pregnancy?

Posted June 3, 2025 in Breast Augmentation

a woman breast feeding a baby

Many patients who plan to have kids and are interested in breast augmentation are also concerned about how breast implants might affect their ability to breastfeed in the future. In this blog, we discuss concerns for patients who are caught between wanting enhancement now and preserving breastfeeding options later.

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How Breast Implants and Breastfeeding Work Together

So, can you breastfeed with implants? The short answer is yes, most women with breast implants can breastfeed successfully. According to a recent study, about 93% of women with implants successfully breastfed their babies. Some women do have trouble breastfeeding, but that tends to happen with or without surgery.

During a breast augmentation, the placement of the implant and the type of incision play an important role in preserving the milk ducts and nerves necessary for future breastfeeding. Generally, the body adapts pretty well to breast implants and, with a skilled plastic surgeon, the important milk-producing aspects of the breasts are preserved.

Implant Placement and Milk Production

Breast milk is produced by an intricate network of milk ducts, glands, and nerves scattered throughout the chest. The process of producing milk works best when nothing squishes or blocks these pathways and connections. That’s why the placement of breast implants really matters for breastfeeding post-surgery.

There are two main options for breast implant placement:

  • Submuscular: Under your chest muscle
  • Subglandular: Right behind your breast tissue

A submuscular implant placement tends to work better if patients plan on nursing in the future. This approach keeps pressure off your milk ducts and creates a layer of separation between the implant and the milk-producing aspects of the breast. Most surgeons will suggest this route if you plan on having kids after breast augmentation, so be transparent about any future pregnancy plans during your consultation.

Incision Type and Milk Production

The location of your surgical incisions plays a big role in preserving your breastfeeding ability:

  • Inframammary incisions are made in the crease under the breast.
  • Periareolar incisions are made around the lower edge of the areola.

Inframammary incisions allow better access for implant placement and carry less risk of damaging any of the ducts, glands, and nerves in the breast. Periareolar incisions carry the risk of severing the milk ducts or nerves needed for milk production. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon will have your best interests in mind and will make incision recommendations accordingly.

Common Concerns About Breastfeeding With Implants

You might worry about breastfeeding safely with implants. The good news is that modern breast implants are built to be secure. The materials inside (silicone or saline) won’t leak into breast milk, even if a patient experiences a rare implant rupture.

Other common questions include:

  • Will nursing affect my implants? Your implants should stay intact during breastfeeding, though your breasts will likely change naturally from pregnancy and nursing.
  • How will my breasts look after breastfeeding? Pregnancy and feeding your baby cause natural changes to your body. It’s normal for your breasts to change size or shape—this happens to all nursing moms, with or without implants.

How to Prepare for Successful Breastfeeding With Implants

If you already have implants and you’re expecting a baby, try these tips to get ready:

  • Tell your obstetrician and pediatrician about your breast implants
  • Talk to a lactation consultant before your baby arrives
  • Learn what a good latch looks like and how to spot good milk transfer
  • Watch for signs that your milk is coming in after birth

Pay attention to how feeding goes once your little one arrives. Most moms with implants have no trouble breastfeeding. You might need extra help or formula to supplement, and that’s okay. Challenges with breastfeeding are more common than people think, with or without breast implants.

When to Consider Delaying Your Breast Augmentation

Sometimes, breast augmentation is better left for later. Women who plan to start a family soon might want to hold off on surgery until after they’ve had children. Here’s why waiting can be a good choice for some patients:

  • Pregnancy changes your breasts in ways that could alter your breast surgery results.
  • You won’t have to worry about how implants might affect your ability to feed your baby.
  • After pregnancy, you’ll have a better idea of which implants match your new breast shape.

Most surgeons agree there’s no health reason to skip implants if babies are still far down the road.

Interested in Breast Augmentation in Scottsdale, AZ?

Women throughout Arizona trust Dr. Robert J. Spies when they want gorgeous results and compassionate care. His approach to breast enhancement prioritizes your long-term happiness, including addressing all your questions about future breastfeeding.

Pick up the phone (480) 359-1019 or complete our contact form to book your consultation today.

 

Contact Us Today

Dr. Spies is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and highly experienced in breast lift surgery for over 35 years. If interested in undergoing this procedure, please feel free to call 480-359-1019 to schedule a consultation.

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Dr. Spies' office is located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, adjacent to the Paradise Valley Cosmetic Surgery Center.


Robert J. Spies, M.D.
5410 N Scottsdale Rd C 100
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Tel: 480-359-1019