How to Breastfeed After Breast Reduction

Contrary to popular belief, breastfeeding is possible after breast reduction surgery in most cases. With more than 50% of all breast reduction surgery patients able to breastfeed (and specialists estimate the number is considerably higher), expectant mothers who have experienced breast reduction surgery may find themselves needing to learn how to breastfeed after breast reduction.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Fenugreek
• Foods with oats in them
• Electric breast pump

How to Breastfeed After Breast Reduction

1. Call your breast reduction surgeon and ask him or her which method they used for the reduction. Some surgical techniques lead to higher breastfeeding success rates. Knowing which surgical technique was used is important information you can pass on to breastfeeding professionals.
2. Contact a lactation consultant. Most hospitals with maternity wards have part- or full-time lactation consultants on staff. Ask your midwife or obstetrician for a referral to a lactation consultant of you cannot find one easily. La Leche League is another great resource for breastfeeding in general. No matter which source you turn to, be certain the breastfeeding expert you choose has experience helping mothers wishing to breastfeed after breast reduction.
3. Take fenugreek capsules and eat one to three servings of oats each day after birth. Both are galactogogues, or substances that encourage breastmilk production.
4. Hook up an electric breastpump and empty the breast entirely after the baby is done feeding. If you cannot afford an electric breastpump, consider renting one from a hospital lactation consultant's office. Some health insurance policies will cover the charge. Some Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) offices will provide electric breastpumps as well.
5. Store the pumped breastmilk in your refrigerator and use within 24 hours. If you do not produce enough breastmilk to meet your babies needs and supplement with formula, pour the pumped breastmilk into the baby's next formula bottle.
6. Do not give up! If you can produce even a small amount of breastmilk, it makes a difference for your baby and for your health.

Tips & Warnings

• Massage the entire breast while pumping, to empty milk ducts that may be located in odd places.
• If you experience redness, hard lumps, or fever, you may have mastitis. See a doctor immediately.
• Avoid peppermint, spearmint, and cabbage. All are anti-galactogogues that can decrease breastmilk production.
• If your baby is not gaining weight, does not produce 4-6 wet diapers a day, or experiences signs of dehydration, take the baby to a pediatrician immediately. You may need to supplement with formula.