Still breastfeeding m 1 yearold, about to do Tumescent Liposuction. How long does lidocaine stay in milk??

Hello. I would think it is best for you to wait until you are done breastfeeding and then do liposuction. I feel it will be much easier for you and the baby.
Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Hello kita987,

Firstly, it's commendable that you're being cautious and seeking additional information to ensure the safety of your child.

Lidocaine, commonly used in tumescent liposuction, is categorized as a local anesthetic. When it comes to breastfeeding, lidocaine is considered relatively safe, as only a small fraction of the administered dose is excreted into breast milk. Most clinical guidelines indicate that the levels found in breast milk after local anesthetic use are generally low and unlikely to cause adverse effects in a breastfeeding infant.

That said, there's always an element of caution to observe. If you are concerned about the immediate effects post-procedure, you can "pump and dump" for the first 24 hours after the procedure to ensure any trace amounts of lidocaine have left your system.

Furthermore, while the lidocaine itself may not pose significant risks, other components in the tumescent solution or medications given during the procedure might. It's essential to discuss all the specifics with your surgeon and possibly consult a lactation consultant or pediatrician to be fully informed.

To reiterate, while many professionals would consider it safe to breastfeed after undergoing tumescent liposuction with lidocaine, it's essential to be aware of your comfort level and always prioritize the safety and well-being of your child. Trusting your instincts and obtaining multiple professional opinions is a smart approach.

Thank you for your question, and I wish you a smooth procedure and a swift recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

It would be best for you to wait to have your procedure until after you have finished breastfeeding. You will need to discuss with your surgeon how long to express and discard your breast milk depending on the various medications, including pain medications, that will be used.

You will need to pump and dump your milk for at least 72 hours and longer if you take pain medication. To be certain, discuss this with your pediatrician.