Breastfeeding with Implants
Can You Breastfeed With Implants? Here’s My Experience
One thing I don’t see talked about nearly enough is breastfeeding with implants. The truth? It can be done, and I know it can because I am doing it.
Of course, I had my doubts. When I got my implants five years ago, one of the very first questions I asked my surgeon was whether I’d be able to nurse again if I chose to have another baby. Her answer wasn’t hesitant at all, what she said was absolutely!
And here I am, giving you my unsolicited (but honest) mom advice about breastfeeding with implants.
My Implant Experience (Before Babies vs. After)
During my first pregnancy, my boobs were small, too small. When they filled with milk, I loved the look so much that I told my doctor, “I want my boobs to look like this… but permanently.” Of course, I came prepared with a boob-goal picture because if you’re considering a breast augmentation, you already know that language.
Fast forward to nursing my son now, whew. These things filled up. They got big, full, and honestly? I still love my results. I mainly notice how large they are when they’re engorged with milk. It doesn’t hurt, but I also think I have a pretty high pain tolerance.
I know they’re really full when I can press down and milk literally sprays out. (Motherhood is wild.)
I’ve noticed that women with implants who nurse often end up with boobs that look even more natural and jiggly and I feel the same way. Mine were soft before, but now? Even softer.
Thinking About Implants Before Kids? Here Are 3 Things to Consider
If you’re thinking about getting breast implants and don’t have kids yet, here are a few things worth considering:
1. Implant placement matters
Under-the-muscle placement (which is what I chose) tends to put less pressure on milk ducts and glands. You can go over or under the muscle, but this choice matters long-term.
2. Your surgeon matters — a lot!
Who performs your surgery makes a difference. I went to Dr. Roughton at Amelia Aesthetics, and her bedside manner and skill were incredible. Multiple revisions or corrective surgeries can damage tissue and potentially impact lactation.
I did my research and I first did a virtual consult with her and we talked through things and I had to send in what I currently was working with, and also my boob goal pictures. I then booked a surgery date and my husband & I flew down to North Carolina and I got my surgery! I stayed in North Carolina 3 days to make sure everything was good after surgery, and I’ve been loving my results ever since.
3. Incision type matters
I had my incision placed in the breast crease. It’s barely visible, I’d have to lift my breast or raise my arms for you to see it. Other incision options include the armpit or around the areola. Areola incisions may have a higher chance of affecting nerves or milk ducts, which can impact supply.
Nursing, Bras & Living With Implants Long-Term
I honestly forgot what wearing a bra felt like until I started nursing again. Before implants, I barely wore bras, and after? Even less. But nursing means leaking, so now you’ll mostly catch me in nursing bras… with the occasional bralette when I’m feeling myself.
I wanted enough boob to feel confident and feminine without looking overdone and most people don’t even realize I have implants unless I tell them. That alone shows how natural they look.
For reference, I have 415cc implants, I’ve had them for five years, and I have zero regrets.
Ever since having them done, I have felt so much more confident and I love the fact that I have nice looking cleavage!
Sensation, Letdown & Milk Supply
Something interesting I’ve noticed while nursing with implants is that the feeling reminds me of how my boobs felt right after surgery, almost like that initial engorged sensation. I also feel my letdown more now, but that could be because I know my body better than I did nursing my daughter at 22.
I was worried about losing nipple sensation, but I haven’t lost any at all. I’ve also had my nipples pierced twice (they’re removed now). I took them out before surgery because piercings can sometimes cause complications, and I wanted the smoothest process possible.
When My Milk Came In (and the Stress That Came With It)
After my son was born, it took about 3–5 days for my milk to fully come in, which definitely made me nervous. With my daughter, I was nursing the same day she arrived.
This time was different. My son was transferred to another hospital shortly after birth (which you can read about here), and I truly believe that added stress played a role in the delay.
Still, I didn’t let it stop me. I pumped, latched, and trusted the process. Thankfully, newborns don’t need much at first, and I was able to collect syringes of liquid gold.
I was so emotional during this time and at times I was even ready to blame my body. I prayed and asked God to let me be able to feed my baby from my body and of course he came through like he always does, and I’ve been a milk making machine ever since.
Every Breastfeeding Journey Looks Different
Every mama’s breastfeeding journey is different. Some exclusively breastfeed. Some formula-feed. Some use a combination and all of it is valid. What matters most is doing what works best for you and your baby.
Breastfeeding with implants has been everything I hoped it would be. It reminds me how important it is to ask questions, do research, and advocate for your future self.
I’ll keep you updated on what my boobs look like once my breastfeeding journey ends, but for now, I’m grateful. I nursed my daughter for a year and a half, and she’s healthy and rarely gets sick. Breastfeeding is such a blessing and a reminder of what God made our bodies capable of.
If you’re a new mama, planning to become one, or simply curious about what life looks like after implants and breastfeeding, I hope this helped you feel informed and encouraged.
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