Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it can also come with many questions—especially if you’ve had breast augmentation. If you're a mom who has implants—whether they're saline implants or silicone implants—and are wondering if it will affect your ability to breastfeed, you’re not alone. Although there is a lot of misinformation out there, many mothers with breast implants have successfully breastfed their babies. 

Let’s dive into some key considerations to help you feel empowered and confident as you navigate breastfeeding with implants.

Can You Breastfeed with Implants?

In most cases, the answer is yes. Many women with breast implants are able to nurse and pump without any problems. However, the success of breastfeeding with implants can depend on several factors, including:

1. Type of Incision: If the incision was made around the areola, it’s possible that some milk ducts or nerves may have been affected. These nerves play a crucial role in triggering the milk let-down reflex, so any damage can potentially impact milk production. However, many women with this type of incision still successfully breastfeed.

2. Placement of Implants: The position of your implants—either under or over the chest muscle—can also influence your breastfeeding experience. When implants are placed under the muscle, they are less likely to interfere with milk production or the milk ducts. Implants placed over the muscle usually don’t cause significant issues either.

3. Timing of Surgery: Some women who’ve had implants for years find breastfeeding to be a seamless experience, while others may notice minor challenges. If you haven’t yet had children but are planning to in the future, make sure to discuss your breastfeeding goals with your surgeon and a lactation professional beforehand.

Will My Milk Supply Be Affected?

Many new moms—even those without implants—worry about whether they'll produce enough breast milk. For moms with implants, milk supply may not be an issue, but some may experience lower production. This can happen when surgery disrupts glandular tissue or nerves essential for lactation. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most mothers, including those with implants, are capable of producing enough milk to exclusively breastfeed their infants for the first six months of life, as recommended by the AAP. 

Tips for Breastfeeding with Implants

If you're concerned about breastfeeding with implants, these tips can help you along the way:

• Frequent Nursing: The more often you nurse, the more your body is stimulated to produce milk. Aim to nurse or pump for your baby on cue or whenever they exhibit hunger cues. An average of 10 to 12 feedings in a 24-hour period is ideal, especially in the early weeks, to establish a strong supply. 

• Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spending time skin-to-skin with your baby helps trigger the hormones that promote milk production and strengthen your bond.

• Monitor Your Supply: Keep track of your baby’s weight gain, wet and dirty diapers, and feeding cues to ensure they’re getting enough milk. Kori Motes, Certified Lactation Counselor, says, “Keep in mind that your baby is the best indicator of breast milk supply, and your baby nursing at the breast can, in many cases, be more efficient at removing milk than a pump. Watch your baby. Is their latch wide and comfortable? Do they seem satisfied after feeding? Are they gaining weight on their own curve according to their pediatrician? If so, your supply is likely great–keep doing what you’re doing!” If you have any concerns, reach out for professional help.

• Seek Lactation Support: A Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can be incredibly helpful if you experience difficulties.

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Your body needs extra fluids and nutrients to produce milk. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet to support your breastfeeding journey.

• Be Patient with Yourself: Breastfeeding takes practice for both you and your baby. Give yourself grace, especially if your milk supply takes time to regulate. Remember that any amount of breastfeeding you do is valuable for your baby.

Will Breastfeeding Change the Look of My Implants?

It’s natural to wonder how breastfeeding might impact the appearance of your implants. Just like with natural breasts, the shape and size of your breasts may change after breastfeeding, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that your implants will be affected. Some women notice slight sagging or changes in their breast tissue after pregnancy and nursing, but the implants themselves typically remain unchanged.

Wearing supportive maternity bras and nursing bras during pregnancy and while breastfeeding can help maintain your breasts' shape, and we offer a variety of wireless options designed for nursing and pumping moms. For breastfeeding moms who’ve had breast implants, our favorite post-op bras are the Sublime® Adjustable Crossover Nursing & Lounge Bra and the Mia Maternity & Nursing Lounge Bra. 

Trust Your Body.

While some moms may face nursing challenges after breast augmentation surgery, others find exclusive breastfeeding to be a smooth process. The key is to listen to your body, seek support from professionals when needed, and give yourself grace during this special time.