Can You Breastfeed After a Breast Reduction?

Female with a baby on a black background

For many women, breast reduction is a life-changing solution that helps them reclaim their comfort and confidence. However, those who plan to have kids after the procedure might wonder: “Can I still breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?”
While a majority of breast reduction patients are able to breastfeed after their procedure, factors such as the surgical technique used, milk duct preservation, and the quality of post-op care can influence the ability to produce breast milk in the future.

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How Breast Reduction Can Affect Breastfeeding

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that helps to resize and reshape your breasts. It involves the removal of excess tissue, skin, and fat and adjusting the size of the breasts to a cup size proportional to the rest of a patient’s body.

Sometimes, breast reduction is done in combination with other procedures such as tummy tuck, breast lift, and liposuction. This combination of procedures is known as a Mommy Makeover. It is perfect for women who want to reclaim their body shape and confidence after pregnancy.

Milk ducts, glands, and nerves are inevitably present during the breast reduction procedure. Sometimes, these milk-producing structures are damaged during the process of removing breast tissue, impacting a patient’s breastfeeding ability. During your initial consultation, Dr. Pincus will guide you through what to expect, including the potential risks and challenges of this procedure. Here are some things you should consider:

Surgical Technique Can Impact Milk Production

The surgical technique used in your breast reduction procedure can significantly impact future milk production. Some techniques can cause damage to your breast ducts and glands, causing a reduction in milk supply. Other surgical techniques focus on preserving more glandular tissue, which minimizes nerve damage and increases the chances of successful breastfeeding.

If your milk-producing structures are severely damaged, you might experience a significant drop in milk production. Additionally, the nerves surrounding your nipples play a crucial role in stimulating milk let-down and ejection. If they are extremely damaged, this could negatively impact the let-down reflex.

How Soon Can You Breastfeed After a Breast Reduction?

If you are considering breastfeeding after undergoing a breast reduction, timing is everything. The longer the period between your surgery, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, the better it is for your milk duct recovery and regeneration. Many women report successful breastfeeding a few years after the surgery. To enhance your recovery and breastfeeding success, you should:

Work with a lactation consultant: A lactation specialist can offer valuable guidance on proper latching techniques and tips to boost milk production.
Apply breast stimulation techniques: Strategies such as frequent nursing, skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding, and pumping can improve milk let-down.
Eat healthy and stay hydrated: Proper nutrition is one of the best ways to increase milk production.

Remember, you are unique, and so is your breastfeeding journey. While some mothers might be able to breastfeed exclusively, others might need to supplement with formula—and this is okay, too. All that matters is that you and your baby feel healthy, happy, and thriving.

Talk to Your Plastic Surgeon

Breast reduction patients who plan to have children in the future should ask questions and discuss their concerns with their plastic surgeon. During the consultation, your doctor should:

Explain the most common breast reduction techniques, especially the ones that cause little to no harm to the breast ducts.
Provide personalized advice and guidance based on your needs, goals, and health condition.
Provide practical expectations about future milk production and breastfeeding potential.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Breast Reduction?

Going for a breast reduction surgery is a personal decision. That said, the best time to go for the procedure depends on your health, lifestyle, financial situation, and family planning goals, among other factors. However, waiting until after you are done having children is highly recommended. This ensures that your body changes during and after pregnancy do not impact your breast reduction procedure outcomes.

Interested in Breast Reduction in Long Island, NY, or Boca Raton, FL?

If you are considering breast reduction surgery, it is crucial that you have a qualified, experienced, reliable, and board-certified plastic surgeon by your side. Dr. David Pincus has years of experience performing breast procedures and will be with you every step of the way. Contact us at (631) 352-3556 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation today.