Can I Breastfeed After a Breast Augmentation?

Breastfeeding can remain possible after breast augmentation, but a full milk supply is not guaranteed. The episode explains why both a person's underlying ability to produce milk and the surgical route matter.

In this June 26, 2020 episode of Plastic Surgery: Before and After, board-certified New York City plastic surgeon Darren M. Smith, MD discusses the relationship between breast augmentation, milk ducts and incision choice.

Key takeaways

🔎 The baseline may be unknown.

If someone has not previously breastfed, it may be unclear how much milk they would have produced before surgery.

🔎 Ducts can be affected.

Dr. Smith explains how dissection through breast tissue can disrupt the pathways that carry milk toward the nipple.

🔎 Approaches differ.

He compares an incision under the breast fold, one at the areolar border, and an armpit approach in relation to that tissue.

💬 Questions answered

Why does the incision location matter?

The episode connects the surgical route with how much breast tissue and how many milk ducts may be crossed. Dr. Smith describes his preference for the breast-fold approach in this context.

Does an incision under the breast guarantee breastfeeding?

No. The discussion begins with uncertainty about baseline breastfeeding ability. A technique intended to limit disruption cannot promise a full supply for every person.

ℹ️ Current breastfeeding context

The CDC's current guidance notes that breast surgery can affect milk production and recommends monitoring the baby's weight gain. People who have had breast surgery may benefit from lactation support and an individualized feeding plan.

🎧 Episode chapters

00:36 — Baseline breastfeeding ability and milk ducts

01:47 — The breast-fold approach

02:14 — Areolar and armpit approaches

🔗 Related information

Explore breastfeeding after implants, breast augmentation, or request a consultation with Dr. Smith in New York City.

About the host — current biography

Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS specializes in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring in Manhattan. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.

Originally released June 26, 2020. Show notes updated September 30, 2026. This is general education. Current recommendations, suitability, risks and expected results require an individual assessment.

Full transcript and related resources