Nursing after Breast Surgery
Question
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?
Dr. Greene's Answer
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.
Refereneces: Breastfeeding. Eglash A – Dis Mon – 01-JUN-2008; 54(6): 343-411
Alan Greene MD
Dr. Greene is a practicing physician, author, national and international TEDx speaker, and global health advocate. He is a graduate of Princeton University and University of California San Francisco.
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