BF after breast reduction....

[Saddy]

Hi, I am in my last few weeks of pregnancy now, and I really really want to BF. However 8 years ago I had a breast reduction operation.....one nipple is not that errect, but both have been leaking a miniscule amount lately.

Anyone here had the op and managed to BF?

Saddy X

Hi Saddy, I haven't had a breast reduction op (quite the opposite problem here ). Breast reduction ops can make breastfeeding difficult, though it all depends on which way the operation was carried out (different aproaches cause differing amounts of damage to the internal workings of the breast). I would have thought if you are leaking, even a small amount could be a really positive sign, but whether the various sections of the organs themselves are still in good enough condition to provide a 'full' amount of milk, I really have no idea. That is probably only something your medical records, or whoever carried out the op could tell you. It might be worth speaking to your GP? Also, another thing to bear in mind is that all important colostrum is generally only produced in small amounts anyway, so even if your breasts aren't able to produce adequate quantities to exclusively breastfeed in the future, you may well still be able to provide your baby with a brilliant start. I really do think leaking is a good sign though, but I really think individuals will vary greatly due to all the variables. I realy hope it works out for you .

Agree with Levanna that you will need to consult whoever carried out the op to find out whether enough of your milk ducts were preserved for you to be able to fully bf. You are clearly producing some milk - which is a good sign!

I had a breast reduction when I was 18 and twins when I was 35! My surgeon said I would be able to breast feed but when the boys were born I appeared not to have any milk. In the hospital they tried all sorts of things - no sugar for a day and then lots was the most peculiar - 'sugar shock' said the midwife. An australian registrar suggested oxcytocin injections but the english doctors ignored her. I tried a breast pump but produced nothing though (yet another) midwife said that could happen anyway. Someone produced a gadget used to help adopting mother's bond. A container filled with formula was slung round my neck with a very fine tube taped across my breast sticking out over the nipple so as the baby sucked they were fed and my milk supply was stimulated at the same time...and to make it extra special I had two for two babies!!!! I fed them like that for six weeks until my mother went home and my mil moved in and I just couldn't cope any longer!! Basically, my boys were bottle fed but I appeared to produce just enough milk to keep them satisfied while the bottles heated up. They are now 14 and 5ft 10in....taller than me. I think what might have happened was that during the breast reduction - which was pretty dramatic -almost too many milk glands were removed though the surgeon made sure to make sure the nipples were still connected. I don't regret it though regardless of the scars (pretty bad). Being 17 with huge Margaret Rutherford type bosoms hanging down was horrible. Sorry not to be more positive but good luck Sandy. Hope it works for you.

Saddy - the only way to find out is to 'suck it and see' excuse the pun. By that I mean that you should just try to feed your baby once it is born. I have personally seen one woman exclusively breast feed and another 2 mums combine feeding with bottle because they didn't produce enough milk. The fact you are leaking colostrum is a really good sign. Just give it your best shot and see what happens. It probably would be a good idea to be in contact with a breastfeeding counsellor beforehand to make sure you get enough support. Breastfeeding can be difficult to establish, especially where there is a lack of confidence. The Breastfeeeding Network or NCT should have contact numbers near you. Anyone got the numbers handy?

I've just noticed there's a prog on Ch 4 tonight about breast reduction. At 9pm. It promises to be pretty gory but there may be a passing reference to feeding in it - though mears is right Saddy, wait and see what happens and keep trying - good luck