Question:
Will having a breast reduction interfere with breastfeeding?

Answer:
Following a breast reduction, it is possible to breastfeed. Most breast reductions will not detach the nipple from the breast, so the nipple will still be attached to the breast tissue and be able to produce milk and allow flow. The problem with assessing the effects of breast reduction on breastfeeding is that some women without surgery will never be able to breastfeed and so these women, if they had surgery, would still be unable to breastfeed. Certainly, though, the majority of women can breastfeed after a breast reduction.

Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS Plastic Surgeon Suite 609, Eastpoint Tower, 180 Ocean Street, Edgecliff, NSW 2027. Phone: (02) 9327 1733. www.drjeremyhunt.com