Nursing after Breast Surgery

faq_Nursing_after_Breast_Surgery_getty
Q

I had a breast reduction 12 years ago and they left the nipple intact but took quite a bit of glandular tissue. I'm 5 weeks pregnant. Will I be able to breastfeed?

drgreene 

With breast reduction surgery, if the nipple is moved it severs the connections to the glands and afterwards nursing is exceedingly unlikely. But if the nipple is protected, most women can breastfeed well, even if a lot of glandular tissue was removed.

I recommend a meeting with a lactation consultant when possible. They can be so helpful at getting nursing going.

January 15, 2003
Reviewed By: 
Khanh-Van Le-Bucklin MD & Stephanie D’Augustine M.D.
Last Reviewed: 
September 4, 2008
Additional Info: 

Refereneces: Breastfeeding. Eglash A - Dis Mon - 01-JUN-2008; 54(6): 343-411

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