Lactation after augmentation mammoplasty.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the lactation outcomes of breast-augmented women and nonaugmented women.

METHODS

This study used a retrospective, comparative design. Demographic and descriptive data were obtained from client records maintained by a lactation support program at a large children's hospital in the southwest United States. The association between breast augmentation and lactation outcome in the two groups was investigated by obtaining data from these existing records.

RESULTS

A significantly greater incidence of lactation insufficiency was found in augmented women compared with nonaugmented women (P < .001). Among 42 augmented women, 27 (64%) had insufficient lactation, compared with only three (less than 7%) of the 42 nonaugmented women. Augmented women who experienced sufficient lactation were equivalent in age, ethnicity, type of delivery, smoking, previous breast-feeding experience, and lactation course compared to augmented women with lactation insufficiency. However, the type of breast incision was significantly associated with lactation outcome. More specifically, it was the periareolar approach that was most significantly associated with lactation insufficiency (P < .01). The incidence of lactation insufficiency with the submammary-axillary approach was only statistically significant when compared with nonaugmented women.

CONCLUSION

A significantly greater incidence of insufficient lactation was found among augmented women compared with nonaugmented women. The periareolar approach was most significantly associated with lactation insufficiency.