There are many factors that count into the decision of breast enhancement. If you are young, deciding to breastfeed your future children may be an important consideration and one you do not want to give up on because of a desire for larger breasts. While you can never know for sure how an augmentation will effect your ability to breastfeed until you try it, there are three methods of implantation that should leave this option open for you.
Inframammary
This form of augmentation is the most common and the safest choice if a woman wants to ensure her ability to breastfeed in the future. The inframammary technique involves creating a small incision in at the bottom of the breast and placing the implant under the pectoral muscle. To preserve breastfeeding, the milk ducts and glands must be left undamaged. In this location, one can minimize the damage and pressure placed upon the lactation glands. Depending on your body type, scarring can be minimal but visible when nude.
Transaxillary
The transaxillary technique involves placing the implant through an incision in the pit of the arm. While this technique can leave the milk production tissues undisturbed, it can be difficult for doctors to adequately place an implant from this location. The appeal of this type of incision is the lack of visible scarring and the ability for the implant to be placed under the chest muscle.
Transumbillical Through the Navel
Like the transaxillary breast augmentation technique, the transumbillical method allows for minimal scarring. However, because this method involves traveling through an incision in the navel with surgical tools and a camera scope, the placement of the implant is the most difficult and allows only for the implant to be placed above the muscle. In this location, it creates pressure on the milk glands and can decrease future milk production.
It is important to note that breast implants are a long-term decision and can cause complications and added pain in the breasts after pregnancy. The risks and benefits should be fully researched before going under the knife. Although the best placement for the implant is underneath the pectoral muscle, where it can do minimal harm to the milk production tissues and nerves, the placement of the implant will depend on your body, the size of enhancement, and the breast implant itself. Talk to your doctor about all options to find the best fit for your future.
For more information, contact the Laufer Institute of Plastic Surgery or a similar location.
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