All surgeries come with risks. Breast reduction, while life-changing for many patients, can lead to a diminished ability to breastfeed after the procedure. Modern techniques minimize this risk. Salameh Plastic Surgery LLC will examine the effects of breast reduction on nursing capabilities.
In theory, it is possible to breastfeed following breast reduction as the nipple’s ducts aren’t divided, and the mound of the breast that lies beneath the nipples remains when breast reduction surgery is performed. But, keep in mind that a portion of people struggles with breastfeeding with or without prior surgical techniques for breast reduction.
It’s also been proven that women with large breasts are often unable to breastfeed; the breast size and shape often make it difficult for children to effectively suckle. The capacity to breastfeed isn’t directly dependent on what size the breast is.
Reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and could cause scarring in the breasts. However, it doesn’t prevent other breast glands from producing milk. It will not stop the growth of the breasts, or the normal changes that occur post-breastfeeding. This is why we do not recommend reduction of the breasts within two to five years after having a baby because, often after breastfeeding, a revision might be required, for example, additional reduction, lift, or even augmentation.
How Does the Breast Change During and After Pregnancy?
Once you are expecting, the breasts become ready to begin producing milk. The blood supply is increased and can cause them to become more sensitive. There may be small bumps or spots on the dark part of the nipple and areola. Your breasts will expand – be sure to choose an appropriate bra and bra strap. Beginning in the mid-point of your pregnancy your breasts create the concentrated milk (colostrum) that is high in antibodies that protect your baby.
The process of breastfeeding isn’t possible without lactation. It is the process that produces the production of milk by the mammary glands of your breasts, which produce milk. If your baby latches and pulls your nipple area, the nerves that are part of the nipple and the complex send signals to your brain to initiate the production of milk and to flow. Two hormones are the primary ones involved in lactation growth: the hormones Prolactin and Oxytocin.
Prolactin increases the generation of milk within the glandular tissue of the breast. Oxytocin triggers the milk to be pushed out of the ducts which then transport them to the nipples. The nipple releases the milk to allow your baby to drink. The amount of milk produced depends on the quantity of glandular tissue that is similar for breasts with larger and smaller sizes. Therefore, as long as these glands are healthy and functioning properly, you will be able to produce enough milk for your child.
If you’re worried that your breasts becoming smaller after your reduction surgery may affect the amount of milk that you produce, do not fret. The amount of milk you produce is dependent on the size of the glandular tissues, and this is about identical for larger and smaller breasts. Therefore, as long as these milk-producing tissues are in good shape and functioning properly, you will be able to produce enough milk for your child.
Breastfeeding Following Breast Reduction
Many women can breastfeed successfully after an increase in mammoplasty. But, reduction in breasts can create problems with breast milk supply to a degree. It is impossible to know whether you’ll be able to breastfeed after the surgery and healing. But in Salameh Plastic Surgery, our surgeons are dedicated to safeguarding the milk ducts, nerves, breast tissues, and their ducts as long as possible.
In this regard, it is now possible to breastfeed following the reduction of breasts. This may not have been feasible just a few years back in time. However, modern techniques have allowed you to have a safe breastfeeding experience, even after having to reduce the size of your breasts. There’s a good chance that you’ll be in the group of women who:
Breastfeed Exclusively
The term exclusive breastfeeding means not feeding your baby any other food or drink, not even breast milk from a bottle. However, it does let the baby receive oral Rehydration salts (ORS) drops and syrups (vitamins minerals, vitamins, as well as medications). It is also the best food source for the healthy development and growth of infants. Breastfeeding is also an essential aspect of the reproduction process that has important consequences for the health of mothers.
WHO recommends that infants begin eating complimentary meals at 6 months (180 days) of age, in addition to breastfeeding milk. Foods must be of an adequate quality which means they offer enough protein, energy, and micronutrients to satisfy the nutritional requirements of a growing child. Foods must be prepared and distributed in a safe way to reduce the chance of contamination. Feeding infants is a process that requires constant attention and stimulation to help the child to take a bite.
Breastfeed Partially
Part-time breastfeeding is when you breastfeed during certain feedings and supplement it with a formula for the rest. For instance, you could breastfeed your child early each morning. You could also nurse your baby right after work, before the time of bed, and at night, if necessary. In the majority of cases, the breasts of your baby can be adjusted and supply the proper amount of milk according to the exact time that you need it.
If you’re required to return to work but wish to continue breastfeeding it is possible to do so. You can pump while at work and then breastfeed at home on weekends and at home. You can also pump when you’re at home, and offer your child an alternative source of nutritious alternative food even when you’re not with your child.
Need Help With Breastfeeding Or Aren’t Able To Breastfeed
It’s crucial to seek help from a professional when you’re having trouble or are unable to breastfeed even once. It is crucial to ensure that the baby you’ve chosen is growing enough weight or is growing.
You can get expert advice from a doctor, lactation specialist, or midwife who can provide details on what you need to do and the best method to feed your infant using formula or breast milk donated by a friend. Many organizations will provide breast milk to mothers of other babies. Many mothers prefer the breast milk they receive from their mothers over formula, especially in the initial few weeks of their baby’s life.
If you’re able to breastfeed before and plan to have breast reduction surgery, our best plastic surgeons in Bowling Green KY, and our best plastic surgeons Evansville Indiana location will help you throughout the process. You can also have a consultation with Dr. Bernard Salameh who is one of the top plastic surgeons in Kentucky, and a double board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to inform and reassure you that your milk ducts and nerve breast tissues are safe throughout the entire procedure.
The top plastic surgeons in Kentucky at Salameh Plastic Surgery Center have years of expertise in the field and have performed hundreds of surgeries on various patients. The fact that we have the best plastic surgery in Evansville, Indiana, and Bowling Green allows it to be more accessible for those who want to undergo surgery like Lipedema, Liposuction, and various breast, body, and facial procedures.
Conclusion
Don’t get too harsh on yourself for not being able to breastfeed. Don’t feel ashamed or insecure. Many women are in this situation. This doesn’t mean that you’re a bad mom or that your child will not be successful. It’s important that your child and you are happy, healthy, and flourishing. If you’re not able to obtain the breast milk you’ve donated or bought, you may also use formula.
It is a matter of deciding on what formula to choose. It isn’t easy and is a difficult task as there are a variety of formulas out on the market. As we said earlier there’s also a portion of women who are struggling with breastfeeding with or without undergoing breast reduction surgery, breast reduction implant surgery, breast reduction with implants, breast reduction with lift and implants, and breasts enhancements.
At Salameh Plastic Surgery Center, we are plastic surgeons that accept payment plans for our patients right from consultation through different surgery. Our plastic surgeons Evansville, Indiana location also will provide you with the most effective breast implant options, and a memorable experience! We also offer breast reduction with lift and implants, upper back liposuction, tummy tuck apron surgery, and body shaping liposuction. We are also plastic surgeons that accept patientfi and credit care.
If you’re concerned about the procedure you can visit us at Salameh plastic surgery Bowling Green, KY, and Salameh plastic surgery Newburgh, Indiana.
Or schedule a consultation with our top plastic surgeons in Kentucky by clicking this link at Salameh Plastic Surgery Center, or call us at (270) 904–7791.