During consultations at our Bellevue office, patients often ask about breast augmentation and whether breast feeding could be disrupted in a future pregnancy.  Sometimes, they ask whether the presence of a synthetic implant poses any safety risk for the newborn.

It is uncommon, but a certain number of patients do experience a disruption in the ability to breast feed.  Usually, this problem is associated with the type of breast augmentation incision chosen.  If future breast feeding is a concern, you should investigate the surgical incision techniques that avoid manipulation of the nipple such as those near the armpit, breast crease, or navel.

Some surgeons will recommend sub-muscular breast implant placement as well, even though breast feeding is not necessarily compromised by sub-glandular (above the muscle) placement.

Research studies published in the late 90s regarding infant safety haven’t found any measurable risks associated with breast implants.  In the late 90s, a study was published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery showing that women with silicone breast implants carry no higher levels of silicone (silicon) in their breast milk than women without implants.  It isn’t known what effect would occur if a small amount of silicone were to pass through to the infant.

If you still have concerns, feel free to speak with Dr. Leff or your OB/GYN.  Whether you plan to become pregnant or not, it is best to understand all of the possible breast augmentation risks before proceeding with surgery.