Breast Reduction & Breast Feeding

[sunyla]

Has anyone had a breast reduction or breast lift and were you able to breastfeed after?

I know it's recommended to wait until you're done having kids and breastfeeding but I'm curious to what others experiences were like.

Do you think it's unreasonable to get it done and risk not being able to breastfeed in the future?

I had the op in my early 20s. I knew it could affect feeding but was desperate for it, and I can honestly say it was one of the best things I've ever done in my life. My confidence increased and I feel like my life began then really.
But - when I did have kids, i didn't produce much milk at all, and it was a source of real upset and pain that I had to supplement all my children's diet from birth, with powdered milk. However, I dont regret the surgery, just make sure you go into it with your eyes open.

My daughter’s friend has a reduction and was very happy with it but sadly was unable to breast feed years later.

No idea to the breastfeeding part, sorry to not be able to help. The reduction was the best thing I ever did!

I was told I wouldn’t be able to breastfeed so like an idiot I didn’t get it done - huge mistake as it was still when the NHS did them. Couldn’t breastfeed anyway, bloody things never worked even without surgery.

However my cousin had hers done, and she happily breastfed two babies afterwards. So I suspect it has something to do with if they fully remove the nipple or not? Talk to your surgeon as to what method they use.

Very much depends on how the surgery is done and a good surgeon will be able to advise. You won't really know until you try good breastfeeding support, knowing what to look for to know if baby getting enough and prompt action to boost supply etc if not. Remember it doesn't have to be all or nothing, if your supply is reduced due to the surgery you can still mix feed. You need to look at what is important to you and at your quality of life too.