Q: Could I still breast feed after getting breast implants?

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Dr. Q: Could I still breast feed after getting breast implants?A:

I'm certainly not the expert on this topic since we have neither

emergencies of breast implants, nor emergencies of breast feeding, on a

regular basis here at the University Hospital. Not to mention, no

breasts to draw any personal experience from.Of course, lack of experience on a subject never stopped me from spouting off before, so I'll give it a try.Breast

implants are used for several conditions, and that makes a big

difference as to the feasibility of breast feeding later. It should go

without saying that if implants are used as part of breast

reconstruction after mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast) for

cancer, or threat of cancer, then lactation will not be possible. Same

goes if implants are used for breast hypoplasia, or failure to develop

normal breasts. Implants have none of the milk producing ability, duct

structure for milk delivery, and milk "let down" structures. They just

make breasts look and feel bigger. To many, that is important. Go

figure.When breast implants are used for augmentation surgery

(to make small breasts look bigger), or to correct an asymmetry (a

surprisingly common condition) then in most cases, breast feeding is

possible. There are different techniques of placing the implants, with

pluses and minuses. The surgical techniques to show the least amount of

scar is somewhat more likely to damage the duct structure and sensory

nerves necessary for milk letdown. When surgical techniques to preserve

breast structure are used, there is a tendency to show a tad more scar.

The La Leche League is probably the expert organization in this

area. Some women report some difficulties, others none, and some even

report easier breast feeding after breast augmentation surgery. One

thing seems definite: whether saline or silicone, there is no untoward

effects for the infant. He/she doesn't get a meal of saline or silicone

for instance. That would be less than satisfying, I imagine.Age

of the woman and intentions of possible breast feeding later, would be

important facts that the operating surgeon would want. When young, we

all have a tendency to be a little overconfident about knowing our

futures. I planned on becoming a baseball player in the summer and a

hockey player in the winter. Kids were never in the equation. It's

important to leave a lot of future options open, (said the guy with 3

kids). Most of us "more experienced (i.e. older)" people can affirm

that we are not exactly where we thought we would be 20 or 30 years

ago. I think that fact of human nature is most likely assumed by

surgeons who would try to preserve breast feeding ability in younger

and childless women. Beside the wonderful reconstructions that

are done for cancer related surgeries, asymmetry and trauma, many women

have enhanced the quality of their lives with breast augmentation (and

reduction) surgeries. Increased confidence, relief of back pain, and

improved social lives are a few of the benefits. Anyone know a

baseball team that needs an aging catcher with a good glove, fair arm,

and weak bat? I'm still waiting for that call. This doctor stuff is

just to hold me until then.Send your anonymous questions to pulse@....