Why Am I Lactating After Breast Augmentation?

After any type of breast surgery including breast augmentation, the appearance of fluid from the nipple that can be clear, yellow or milky white can be quite common.

The ducts of the breasts normally contain cells and a small amount of fluid that is naturally produced by the breast glands, even if you are not in actuality lactating (producing milk after pregnancy). 

A breast augmentation can create swelling of the breasts and force this normally produced fluid out the ducts into the nipple, and it can be expressed sometimes with squeezing the breasts (like during implant massage), or spontaneously. 

Be patient and if there is a large amount of fluid being produced, a nursing pad or panty liner/maxi-pad/makeup remover pad in your bra can help to avoid an embarrassing spot on your shirt from leakage!

Be sure to discuss this event with your Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon for additional information.

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC

Plastic Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery, Reconstructive Microsurgery

Patient can have some drainage from their nipple as you describe.  But this should subside several days / weeks after surgery.   I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon.   If your symptoms do not resolve, then you may want to consider visiting with your internist.  Best of luck
Dr. Basu