Breast implants and breastfeeding: know the main questions about it
When it comes to silicone breast implants, the main concern for women planning to become pregnant in the future is how the procedure may influence breastfeeding. In addition to the doubt about the possibility of breastfeeding with implants, another issue that generates a lot of apprehension is whether the prosthesis will lose its position after breastfeeding. Is this concern valid? In addition, the classic indecision also arises: is it better to carry out the procedure before or after pregnancy?
Read on to explore the top breastfeeding issues in connection with breast implants.
Can I breastfeed with silicone breast implants?
In general, it is possible to breastfeed even after the insertion of silicone implants. This is due to the fact that these implants are composed of a highly cohesive gel, which does not spread beyond the prosthesis itself. Furthermore, the implant is positioned below the mammary gland, which means that there is no interaction with breast milk.
Do implants/fall out after breastfeeding?
After breastfeeding, the implants do not actually fall out, but it is possible for the breasts to acquire a more flaccid appearance. This can give the impression that the implants have fallen out, but it is actually related to the natural relaxation of the breast after this period.
Does breastfeeding with implants affect the quality or quantity of milk?
The presence of implants does not impact the taste or quantity of milk produced during breastfeeding. This happens because implants have no direct influence on breast milk, as they are located below the mammary glands, without any contact with milk.
Can I use a breast pump with breast implants?
Yes, it is safe to use a breast pump even with breast implants. This device simulates the baby’s suction during breastfeeding and does not harm the breast implants, nor vice versa.
Is it better to have implants placed before or after pregnancy?
The recommendation is that if a woman is planning to become pregnant soon, she should wait a while before having the breast implant procedure. This is because pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the firmness of the breasts, which can be corrected later with the prosthesis itself in mild cases or through a mastopexy with prosthesis.
Is it necessary to change the implants after breastfeeding?
It is not necessary to replace silicone implants after breastfeeding. Since it is possible to breastfeed without harming the integrity of the implants, they are not damaged during the breastfeeding period, so replacement is not mandatory.
In summary, breast implants do not compromise the quality of milk produced during breastfeeding, and using a breast pump is safe. The need to change implants after breastfeeding is not a rule, as implants are designed to support this phase of a woman’s life.
Remembering that each situation is unique, and the support of health professionals is essential. Every mother has her own breastfeeding journey, and with support, proper information and patience, it is possible to achieve a rewarding experience of breastfeeding your baby, regardless of the presence of breast implants.