11/23/2008 15:35:20

Hi, that is awesome news about the tissue reconstructing.  I had such large breasts that I don't think I would have ever been comfortable breast feeding.  I used to joke with my husband that I probably would have smothered my baby.  I was so self conscience and it prohibited me from so many things; horse riding, sports, going to the pool or beach with friends.  I have never regretted the surgery.  I was told it could prevent me from breastfeeding.  I weighed the options and made a choice.  At 18 I didn't even know if I would have kids.  I think it was so long ago there weren't a lot of procedures to choose from.  I had two opinions from Drs.  Our health insurance did pay for my surgery.  If you think of any other questions do not hesitate to ask.  Have you actually ever known anyone who had the nipple removed successfully breastfeed?  I would love to know if it has happened.  Thanks

11/22/2008 16:07:48

Thanks for you comment. Since I originally posted this blog, I have found a really good resource at: www.bfar.org  (bfar stands for breastfeeding after reduction). I have also talked a couple of times to a client who shared with me her recent experience with her new baby.

The most interesting and intriguing thing I have learned about bfar is that apparently breast tissue does an amazing amount of reconstructing, mainly due to the hormonal levels during pregnancy. Evidently, the body does just about everything it can to make sure the milk is there. Good news for you is that with each pregnancy comes more reconstruction.

I'm excited for you and I applaud your tenacity. You're obviously an awesome mom and your kids are so lucky to have you. 

I am interested on your experiences when you had the surgery. What kind of counseling regarding this issue did you receive? What were your alternatives to surgery then? Was it cosmetic or for health's sake? Is there anything you wish you'd have been informed of then, but weren't? Was the decision yours, or your parents? If yours, do you think you were mature enough to make the decision?

I hope you don't mind these questions. I am always trying to learn more and I've seen an increase in clients lately who have had this procedure and find themselves in situations similar to yours. I appreciate the discussion. Hope to hear back from you.

11/22/2008 12:40:44

HI, I tried to breastfeed after my two babies.  My nipples were removed and sewn back on.  I had sooo much milk but couldn't get it out.  The second time I seemed to get a little more to come out of the nipple.  It seems like there should be some way to get breastfeeding to work after this type of procedure.  I am pregnant and I am going to try again.  I may try pumping this time.  Any other ideas?  I had my surger in 1989, and I am now 37.  A word of encouragement to those moms who may not be able to breasfeed, my girls were never sick as babies.  They never had ear infections and no allergies.  I gave them both formula and they have been healthier than some of my friends children who were breastfed for a year.  We are so lucky to have good formula on the market.