If you are planning to have breast implants and may want to have children in the future that you would like to breastfeed, it is typically recommended that you wait until after you are done having children and breastfeeding before you have implants put in. However, you still might be able to breastfeed after you have implants put in.
Whether or not you can breastfeed will depend on the type of implants that you have, where the implants were placed, and how the surgery was completed. One worry that you may have is that the chemicals from your breast implants may leak into your breast milk. There are some implants that are filled with saline and most caregivers do not see a problem if the saline mixes in with the breast milk. Silicone implants are filled with the chemical silicone and some caregivers say that it is okay if it mixes with the milk as well. If you have any type of implant you will need to discuss this with your caregiver if you are planning on breastfeeding.
Some women may have issues with breastfeeding after implants because during the implant surgery milk ducts, nerves, and milk glands can be damaged. The injured nerves may decrease feeling in the nipple area, which could decrease the letdown response. This is when the milk is released from the glands to get to the baby. A damaged milk duct could decrease the amount of milk that your baby will receive. Implants may also pinch the milk ducts, which could block the flow of milk from your breasts and make your breasts swell.
Overall, if you are considering breast feeding, waiting for implants is the best option. However, if you do have breast implants there is still a chance that you will be able to breastfeed your baby without many issues.
