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From: De

Dear Roxanne:

Hi. I am getting some different answers about my ability to breastfeed after having implants done. Do you know? I had them done through the aereola, but the incision (according to my surgeon) comprises only 30% of the ducts, so therefore should have no problem.

I have also heard, though, that many women have problems after implants. Help!

Dear De:

As we state a zillion times on our site, I'm not a doctor or a lactation consultant, just someone who thinks she's kinda amusing (just never to her immediate family!). So I don't want to answer your question with any definites for those reasons, and for the fact that I don't know you or your medical situation. But I can tell you who can help.

Go to your local La Leche League (or ask national) and see if they can put you in touch (a) with anyone who's nursed after implants and (b) a lactation consultant who's familiar with nursing after implants. Take a breastfeeding class, make sure you read The Baby Book or any other Sears text to get the scoop on how to find out if baby is getting enough (count wet and poopy diapers, listen for swallowing sounds, watch the baby's fontanel to make sure it's not caving in, etc.) Make sure your pediatrician, who you should see within a few days of delivery, knows your medical history and is breastfeeding-friendly and educated.

The word on the street is that most people can nurse after implants. (I do believe Ms. Baywatch herself nursed, after all.) You just have to pay attention, just like any other mom, to make sure your baby is getting enough. Even moms with only one working breast can get their babies enough milk, you know. The real problems are with breast reductions, as they can cut out ducts entirely.

Good luck, and remember, knowledge is power!

Roxanne

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