Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a common procedure for those who experience physical discomfort due to overly large breasts. If you’ve considered breast reduction, you may have experienced chronic pain in your neck, back, or shoulders, or perhaps difficulties with posture or self-esteem. Additionally, some may be seeking relief from unwanted attention or feeling self-conscious about their breast size.
However, one of the questions on your mind may be how breast reduction affects your ability to breastfeed in the future, especially if you’re planning on having children or already have a baby. At New York Group for Plastic Surgery, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons can provide comprehensive information and guide you through the process. While breast reduction can offer substantial physical and emotional benefits, it’s crucial to fully understand how it might affect your ability to nurse and what steps you can take to ensure successful breastfeeding.
Can breast reduction affect breastfeeding?
Breast reduction surgery removes excess fat, tissue, and skin from the breasts to reduce size and improve symmetry. While this procedure can provide relief and improve aesthetics, it can also impact your ability to produce and release milk effectively. This is primarily because of the removal of glandular tissue, which is responsible for milk production, and the potential disruption of milk ducts that carry milk from the breast to the nipple.
The procedure involves repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast, and in some cases, removing or altering the ducts and blood vessels that contribute to milk production. As a result, some women may face challenges in producing milk or breastfeeding effectively after a reduction. The ability to breastfeed depends on the extent of tissue removed, the surgical technique, and whether or not the nipple-areola complex was detached.
The role of glandular tissue and milk ducts
Glandular tissue in the breast plays a key role in producing milk. If a large portion of this tissue is removed, it may decrease the amount of milk your body can produce. Additionally, if the ducts transporting milk from the glandular tissue to the nipple are severed or disrupted, it can lead to difficulties in milk flow. However, it’s important to note that even if some ducts are affected, breastfeeding may still be possible, especially if only a portion of the ducts is compromised.
In many cases, breast reduction surgery is performed in such a way as to preserve as much glandular tissue and milk ducts as possible. However, the extent of preservation can vary based on the needs of each patient and the type of surgery performed. Some surgical techniques, such as those that involve a vertical or “lollipop” incision, may have a better chance of preserving milk production than other more invasive methods.
Tips to increase milk supply after breast reduction:
If you’ve had a breast reduction and are concerned about your milk supply, here are some tips to help you increase and optimize it after childbirth:
Frequent breastfeeding and pumping
To stimulate milk production, it’s essential to breastfeed as often as possible, ideally every two to three hours during the first few weeks. This helps trigger the body’s natural milk supply. Pumping after breastfeeding can encourage milk production and ensure that your breasts are fully emptied. The more milk is removed, the more your body will be encouraged to produce.
Hand expression and supplemental feeding
Hand expression, a technique where you manually express milk from your breasts, can help increase milk supply when used alongside breastfeeding or pumping. If you are concerned about insufficient milk production, consider using a supplemental nursing system (SNS). This involves feeding your baby expressed milk or formula through a tube while breastfeeding, providing nutritional support and stimulating milk production simultaneously.
Consult a lactation consultant
Working with a lactation consultant can be helpful. A specialist can help assess your breastfeeding technique, ensure that your baby is latching properly, and offer advice on how to boost milk production. They can also help with any challenges related to nipple shape, breast size, or positioning. By seeking support, you can address any issues promptly and optimize your chances of successful breastfeeding.
Consider herbal supplements and medications
Some women find that herbal supplements like fenugreek, blessed thistle, or milk thistle can help boost their milk supply. Medication can also stimulate milk production, but it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any supplements or medications to ensure they are safe and effective for you.
Ensure proper nutrition and hydration
Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated is essential for breastfeeding. Ensure you consume enough calories, vitamins, and minerals to support milk production. Hydration is especially important, as it helps with milk flow and overall breast health. Eating foods rich in nutrients like whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can also support lactation.
Breast reduction surgery can affect breastfeeding, but many women are still able to nurse successfully with proper support. While the procedure may impact the amount of milk produced and how easily it flows, there are steps you can take to maximize your milk supply. At New York Group for Plastic Surgery, we understand that breast reduction is a personal decision, and our plastic surgeons will take your goals for breastfeeding in consideration when planning the surgical technique. Please schedule a consultation to explore your breast reduction options.
