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Milk Production After Reduction
One Woman's Story of Success By Kim Folsom
At the end of two weeks, Heather's goal is for Baby to be back to birth weight. On day 15 of life, Grace weighed in at a healthy 8 pounds, 1 ounce, up from her birth weight of 7 pounds, 9 ounces. She was regularly taking in more than 2 ounces at each feed and weigh appointment. Heather released us from daily appointments and suggested weekly weight checks until our two-month exam. I was thrilled, and I think Heather was amazed. I knew I needed to thank my surgeon.
Dr. Philip E. Gutek, with Associated Plastic Surgeons, P.C., in Kansas City, Mo., is one of my heroes. He came highly recommended by two women I knew who had other procedures. I can't stress enough the importance of finding a trained and skilled surgeon, with recommendations from past patients and a stellar reputation.
According to Dr. Gutek, the type of breast reduction surgery performed determines whether breastfeeding can be considered. If a dermal pedicle or a free nipple graft has been performed, breastfeeding would not be possible, due to the severance of connective breast tissue. However, Dr. Gutek uses an inferior-lateral pedicle or dermo-glandular pedicle method, in which the nipple areolar complex is left intact, increasing the possibility of adequate blood supply, nerve supply and continuity of breast tissue and milk ducts. In his opinion, with current techniques, breastfeeding should be possible in 60 to 70 percent of women who would have been able to breastfeed prior to reduction surgery.
I nursed my baby exclusively for six months. I did experience more complications than I had with my first babies. The right breast had much better milk production and flow. I developed serious nipple sores and several breast infections, which were new to me. Since the reduction, I don't have as much feeling in my nipples, and Heather explained that lack of sensation led to the nipple wounds and subsequent infections. If there is diminished sensation, you might not notice Baby latching on incorrectly or nursing too vigorously, which leads to injury of the nipple. A breast infection is serious and can be quite painful, but it's treatable and you can usually continue to nurse.
Breastfeeding gives Baby a wonderful, healthy start in life and provides Mom with a warm, close bonding that's indescribable. If you've had a breast reduction and you wish to breastfeed, I want to offer cautious optimism. It can be done. I owe my success to a terrific surgeon, a supportive lactation consultant, determination and a positive attitude. I'm happy to share my story in hopes that it will provide encouragement and support to others.
