If you've had breast reduction surgery and plan to breastfeed, it’s helpful to know how the procedure might affect your experience. Many women who’ve had breast reductions successfully breastfeed, but your journey will depend on factors like surgical technique and how your body heals.

How Does Breast Reduction Surgery Affect Breastfeeding?

Breast reduction surgery often involves removing breast tissue and repositioning the nipple, which can affect milk ducts and nerves essential for breastfeeding. How much impact this has depends on the type of surgery you had. Some moms can produce a full milk supply, while others may need to talk with their provider about supplementing with formula or donor breast milk.

Surgical Techniques and Breastfeeding Success

The way your breast reduction is performed is key to breastfeeding success. Procedures that preserve the nerves and milk ducts generally offer moms a higher chance of being able to produce milk. The more time that has passed since your surgery, the more likely it is that your body has healed and regenerated milk ducts.

Monitoring Milk Supply

It’s always important to pay attention to your breast milk supply. Signs that your baby is getting enough milk include

• Wet and Dirty Diapers: Your baby should be producing roughly one wet diaper on day one of life, two on day two, three on day three, and after day four, your baby should have at least six wet diapers and three or more dirty diapers per day. A diaper is considered wet if it contains approximately three tablespoons of urine, and a diaper is considered dirty if it contains a quarter-sized amount of stool.
  
  
• Steady Weight Gain: Most providers like to see babies regain their birth weight within two weeks and continue to gain weight steadily. If you have concerns about your baby's weight gain, talk with your baby’s provider about their individual growth curve.
  
  
• Contentment After Feeding: If your baby seems satisfied after feeding, they’re likely getting enough milk. Some signs that your baby is satisfied include breaking the latch to end the feed, having soft, open hands and relaxed limbs, appearing sleepy, or turning away from the breast.

If you notice weight gain or diaper output issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or pediatrician for support.

Tips for Successful Breastfeeding After a Reduction

Maximize your chances of breastfeeding success with these tips:

• Start Early: Breastfeed as soon as possible after birth to stimulate milk production.
• Skin-to-Skin Contact: This helps encourage milk letdown and strengthens your bond with your baby. Wear our Organic Cotton Skin to Skin Long Sleeve Wrap Top for the coziest cuddles!
• Frequent Nursing or Pumping: Nurse your baby often or pump after feedings to signal your body to produce more milk. “Aim to feed your baby on cue – whenever they express hunger cues – totaling 8-12 times within a 24-hour period,” recommends Kori Motes, Kindred Bravely’s in-house Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC).
• Consult a Lactation Professional: A CLC or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can provide tailored advice to help you navigate challenges specific to breastfeeding after surgery.
• Herbal Supplements: Some moms succeed with galactagogues like moringa or lactation teas and snacks, but always consult your healthcare provider before trying these.
• Monitor Baby’s Weight: Regular weight checks will help ensure your baby is getting enough nutrition, especially if you’re unsure about your milk supply.

Planning Ahead

If you haven’t had children yet and you’re considering breast reduction surgery, it’s important to discuss your breastfeeding goals with your surgeon and healthcare team. Let them know your priorities so they can take steps to preserve as much milk-making tissue as possible. 

Connecting with an IBCLC before surgery can also help you understand what to expect and prepare for breastfeeding later.

Finding Breastfeeding Support

Breastfeeding support can be a lifeline for moms navigating this journey. Consider reaching out to the following:

• Lactation Consultants and Counselors: They offer expert, personalized breastfeeding support.
• Local Breastfeeding Support Groups: Groups like La Leche League provide community-based support and guidance.
• Online Resources: Virtual lactation consultations and Kindred Bravely’s blog and other resources can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Post-Surgery Bra Recommendations

After breast surgery – whether it’s a breast reduction, breast implants, or any other breast augmentation or procedure – it’s essential to find comfortable, supportive bras that prioritize healing. 

Look for post-op bras with wire-free designs, easy access for nursing, and soft fabrics to prevent irritation during recovery.

Our Simply Sublime® Nursing Bra is a great option for gentle support during recovery, offering soft, stretchy fabric that adapts to changes in breast size. 

The Mia Maternity & Nursing Lounge Bra is the perfect combination of comfort and light support – another excellent option for the post-surgery period. 

For moms who pump, the Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. 

Whether through nursing, pumping, supplementing, or a combination, with the right support and resources, many moms successfully breastfeed after a breast reduction. You’ve got this!