How Soon Can You Breastfeed After Minimally Invasive Breast Surgery?

How long after minimally invasive breast surgery during lactation can one resume breastfeeding?

Hello doctor, I had a minimally invasive breast surgery on June 8 to remove a benign tumor that was less than 1 cm.
Since the surgery, my breast milk has had some blood in it.
How long will it take before I can continue breastfeeding? Or is it okay to breastfeed directly as long as my baby doesn't reject it?

Meimei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/09

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid

The medications used after minimally invasive breast surgery are generally considered to pose minimal harm to young children.
Therefore, you can breastfeed from the unaffected breast that does not have any blood or fluid until the color of the affected breast lightens, at which point you can resume breastfeeding from that breast.

Reply Date: 2023/06/09

More Info

After undergoing minimally invasive breast surgery, such as the removal of a benign tumor, it is essential to consider both the healing process and the safety of breastfeeding. Generally, the timeline for resuming breastfeeding can vary based on individual circumstances, including the extent of the surgery, the healing of the incision site, and any complications that may arise.

In your case, since you mentioned that the surgery involved the removal of a tumor less than 1 cm in size, the recovery period may be relatively short. However, the presence of blood in your breast milk is a significant concern. Blood can be a result of trauma to the breast tissue during surgery, and while it may resolve as healing progresses, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely.

Typically, after surgery, it is advisable to wait until the incision has healed adequately before resuming breastfeeding. This healing period can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how your body responds to the surgery. If the incision is healing well and there are no signs of infection, you may be able to resume breastfeeding sooner. However, if you notice persistent blood in your milk or any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pain), it is essential to consult your healthcare provider immediately.

As for breastfeeding itself, if your baby does not reject the breast and is willing to nurse, it may be possible to continue breastfeeding, provided that you are comfortable and the incision is healing properly. However, you should be cautious and monitor both your comfort level and your baby's response. If you experience pain while breastfeeding or if your baby shows signs of distress, it may be best to pause until you receive further guidance from your healthcare provider.

In addition to monitoring your incision site and the quality of your breast milk, consider the following recommendations:
1. Consult Your Surgeon or Lactation Consultant: They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help you determine the best course of action for breastfeeding.

2. Keep the Area Clean: Ensure that the incision site remains clean and dry to prevent infection, which can complicate healing and affect your ability to breastfeed.

3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Proper nutrition and hydration are vital for healing and maintaining milk supply. Make sure you are eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids.

4. Watch for Signs of Infection: Be vigilant for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision site. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

5. Consider Pumping: If you are concerned about the quality of your milk or if breastfeeding is uncomfortable, consider pumping to maintain your milk supply while allowing your body to heal.

In summary, while it is possible to resume breastfeeding after minimally invasive breast surgery, the presence of blood in your milk and the healing of your incision are critical factors to consider. Always prioritize your health and your baby's well-being by consulting with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and support.

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