Posted: April 4, 2012
Many women who plan to have children in the future are understandably concerned about the effect breast augmentation might have on their ability to breastfeed. Since there is a lot of misinformation floating around on this topic, it is important to know the facts about breast augmentation and breastfeeding.
In the past, unfounded reports of silicone contaminating a mother’s breast milk sparked concern about silicone breast implants. However, after conducting several studies, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) found no association between silicone implants and any health risk to nursing infants. In a similar vein, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a statement in 2001 asserting that cow milk and most of the infant formulas sold in stores have a higher amount of silicone than breast milk in women who have silicone implants.
While it is possible to damage a woman’s milk glands or milk ducts during breast augmentation surgery – for example, when using the periareolar incision method – damage to these ducts and glands is still extremely rare, especially when breast augmentation is performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Harrell.
The truth is that the majority of women with breast implants are able to breastfeed without any hindrance. However, it is important to remember that regardless of whether or not you have a breast augmentation, not every woman is capable of breastfeeding.
If you have further questions about breast augmentation and pregnancy, please contact us today to schedule a personal consultation with experienced Miami breast surgeon Dr. Jon Harrell. The Weston Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery serves patients in Weston, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Plantation, and Davie, Florida.