Does a Breast Lift Affect Future Breastfeeding?

Thursday, 28 February 2019 18:09

Keystone Cosmetic Surgery Center

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Many new mothers have a desire to breastfeed. At the same time, this rite of passage in Motherhood can alter the appearance of the breasts so significantly that a woman’s satisfaction with her body declines. The physical changes that may occur after pregnancy and breastfeeding are normal and can be seen as beautiful. However, if a woman so chooses, she can restore proportion to her breasts with appropriate surgery. When the breasts have dramatically deflated and dropped, a lift may be in order. Whether conducted on its own or with breast implants, a breast lift is something to approach with an eye for the future.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift may be referred to as mastopexy. This surgical technique addresses severe tissue laxity by removing extra skin and repositioning the nipple as needed to restore adequate projection and fullness. The nipple is not fully removed during breast lift surgery, it remains attached to surrounding tissue to preserve circulation that will help the nipple heal successfully. Through a predetermined pattern of incisions, breast tissue is repositioned to better support volume and roundness.

Can a Woman Breastfeed after a Breast Lift?

This is an important question for every patient to ask her surgeon. The general answer is yes. However, there are factors that a patient must consider if there is any chance of a future pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Milk Duct Function

Every effort is made to leave functional structures such as nerves and milk ducts intact during breast surgeries. However, there is no way to guarantee that some degree of disruption may occur. What breast lift surgery may lead to is a decrease in lactation function, but not a full elimination of a woman’s ability to breastfeed.

Nipple Sensation

It may not be common knowledge that nipple sensation plays a direct role in a woman’s ability to produce milk. Without sufficient sensation in the nipple, the neurohormonal reflex that prompts milk glands to produce is diminished. Breast surgery naturally disrupts the nerves around the nipple. It can take up to five years for full sensation to resume after any breast procedure. A woman who wishes to breastfeed will want to consider this time frame before committing to surgery.

Breast procedures can help a woman feel like herself again. To learn more about a breast lift or breast augmentation, schedule a visit to our Hazleton or Pottsville office.