Breastfeeding Basics: Nursing After Breast Surgery

Dr. Alan Greene answers the question, I had a breast reduction. Will I be able to breastfeed?

By Alan Greene, MD, FAAP

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?

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.

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