During surgery consultations for breast augmentation, patients often ask whether breast feeding will be affected by the presence of saline or silicone implants.  Is it possible? Is it safe for the newborn?

In some patients, the ability to breastfeed is disrupted by a past breast augmentation.  Usually, this is associated with the periareolar incision (around the lower half of the nipple).  To minimize your risk, a surgeon might recommend other incision sites such as the armpit, breast crease, or navel.

While breast Implant placement below the pectoralis muscle may also be recommended, even with subglandular placement, breast feeding is not necessarily compromised.

Regarding infant safety, research studies haven’t found any measurable risks.  In the late 90s, a study was published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery showing that women with silicone breast implants carry no higher levels of silicone (silicon) in their breast milk than women without implants.  It isn’t known what effect would occur if a small amount of silicone were to pass through to the infant.

If you still have concerns, speak to Dr. Edds or your OB/GYN.  Whether you plan to become pregnant or not, it is best to understand all of the possible breast augmentation risks before proceeding with surgery.