Can you breastfeed after breast implants?
In most cases, yes — breastfeeding after breast implants is possible. Many women with breast implants go on to breastfeed successfully. However, the ability to produce and deliver breast milk can vary depending on several surgical and individual factors.
Understanding how breast implants interact with breast anatomy can help set realistic expectations, especially for women planning future pregnancies.
What affects breastfeeding after breast implants?
1. Implant placement
Under the chest muscle (submuscular placement)
This option is less likely to interfere with milk ducts and glands and is generally more favourable for breastfeeding.
Over the chest muscle (subglandular placement)
This sits closer to the milk-producing tissue and may increase the likelihood of breastfeeding challenges, though many women still breastfeed successfully.
2. Incision location
Inframammary (under the breast fold)
Least likely to affect breastfeeding.
Periareolar (around the nipple)
May increase the risk of disrupted milk ducts or nerves, which can affect milk supply or let-down reflex.
Transaxillary (through the armpit)
Usually avoids breast tissue and may preserve breastfeeding function.
3. Nerve preservation
The nerves around the nipple play an important role in milk let-down. If sensation is reduced after surgery, milk flow may be affected — although nerve function can recover over time.
Will implants affect milk quality or safety?
Current evidence suggests that silicone or saline implants do not make breast milk unsafe. Studies have not shown harmful levels of implant materials passing into breast milk. Breastfeeding is generally considered safe for babies, even if the mother has implants.
Common breastfeeding experiences after implants
Women with breast implants may experience:
- Normal milk production and breastfeeding
- Reduced milk supply requiring supplementation
- Delayed milk “coming in”
- Increased breast engorgement or discomfort
Each experience is highly individual and not solely determined by having implants.
Tips for breastfeeding with breast implants
- Inform your doctor or lactation consultant about your breast surgery history
- Monitor your baby’s weight gain and feeding patterns
- Seek early support if milk supply seems low
- Be open to combination feeding if needed
The Takeaway
Breast implants do not automatically prevent breastfeeding. Many women breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation, especially when surgical techniques preserve breast tissue and nerve pathways.
If you are considering breast implants or navigating breastfeeding after surgery, speak to an experienced doctor for personalised guidance and reassurance.
Speak to us to know more.
Dr Timothy Shim is a Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon and Director of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery at Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery. He is experienced in aesthetic surgery and advanced reconstruction techniques relating to breast cancer, head and neck cancers, skin tumors as well as lower limb reconstruction.
