Breast Reduction and Breastfeeding

Breast feeding requires the breast glands to produce the milk, ducts to bring the milk to the nipple and an interface for the child's mouth that is nipple. Can women who have had breast reduction still breast feed is a general question. It is true that after breast reduction, breast feeding is not possible but in some cases breast reduction surgery can still enable you to breast feed. Breastfeeding after breast reduction depends on the type of surgery.

Breast feeding after breast reduction is possible in case of breast reduction mammoplasty. It includes restoring the nipple and areola to a higher position. During the surgery excess skin may need to be removed or re-draped. The goal of this surgery   is to remove the excess, and yet keeping the remaining tissue alive by keeping proper blood supply and sensation. In order to maintain overall functioning of the breasts, it is important that the gland, duct and nipple connection remains intact. This is not possible in case of breast reduction liposuction, and breast feeding after that is almost impossible.

Breast augmentation and reduction in breast feeding are two different types of procedure and amongst the two; breast feeding is possible only in case of breast reduction. Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery is possible after mammoplasty since surgeons are being able to protect the milk producing tissues. Advanced techniques are used so that nipple ducts are not completely severed though they have to be relocated. There are also many ways to maximize the production of milk by the mammary glands that remain intact and functional after surgery. Thus breast feeding while breast reduction is also possible.
After a couple of days post surgery,  you can try pumping for some minutes on both breasts after every nursing session to help bring more milk in. You can also use a fully automated pump which pumps both breasts together to stimulate your letdown spontaneous effect. You may also try Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) to enhance your baby's milk intake. It consists of plastic pouches that hold breast milk and thin, flexible tubes are attached that run down from breasts to each nipple.

Recently new ways to breast feed after breast reduction have been developed that take place without producing enough milk from your glands. Lactation consultants specialize in how to optimize your milk production. In this way your child gets his nutrition, while you enjoy the bonding that comes with breast feeding even after breast reduction surgery.
The most significant thing is that nursing is much more important than nutrition. We encounter a whole new range of emotional needs when we breastfeed our babies. When you appreciate success in this way, then you become aware of the power that you can develop to make breastfeeding possible. The feeling of bonding with your child through breast feeding after breast reduction requires lot of patience and pain endurance. But this feeling is more than enough for you to give you strength in vulnerable moments and make you understand what success actually means.