Will breast implant removal negatively affect my breastfeeding ability?How long after having the removal can I breastfeed again?

Question

I've had silicone implants for four years (under the muscle, incision made under the fold of the breast). I'm exclusively breastfeeding my 7-month-old but want the implants removed ASAP but I don't want to negatively affect breastfeeding future children. Breastfeeding is extremely important to me. I don't have any problems right now with the implants that I'm aware of. How long after weaning can I have the explant? How long after the explant surgery do I need to wait until breastfeeding again?

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is unclear why you want the breast implants removed. If you have soft implants and relatively normal capsules then this could be done very soon. If there is a contracture, then I would wait at least 3 months from stopping breast feeding before having surgery. Once the implants have been removed, you should be able to breast feed your next pregnancy. Best of Luck!

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

You can safely remove silicone breast implant and breast feed your baby after healing. Most of us recommend at least 4-6 weeks after implant removal. If you plan this well before pregnancy, it should not be an issue. Make sure to see a plastic surgeon for full evaluation.

William J. Hedden, MD · Answer

Breast feeding should not affect you ability to breast feed but you would probably like to wait at least a few months before breast feeding again.  Implant removal is typically not too difficult to perform or under go, so in most cases you should be fine.

Jeffrey Weinzweig, MD, FACS · Answer

Implant removal will not negatively affect your breast feeding ability. It is recommened that you wait 3-6 months after the surgery to breast feed.

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

If you are able to breast feed with the implants, it would be unlikely that you would have a problem after the implants are removed. It is probably wise to wait 3 months after you have stopped breast feeding to have the removed. After the implant is removed you can start breast feeding at your next pregnancy. You would not want to undergo anesthesia if you are currently pregnant or breast feeding.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Will breast implant removal negatively affect my breastfeeding ability?How long after having the removal can I breastfeed again?

Answers (5)