Undergoing a breast augmentation does not necessarily mean that your ability to successfully breastfeed will be negatively affected.

However, there is a risk that nerves, milk ducts and milk glands could be damaged during surgery, and so women are advised to research all the available options thoroughly before committing to a breast implant procedure.

Impact of nerve, duct and gland damage

If nerves are injured this will decrease the feeling in the nipple area, which could reduce the let-down response (where milk is released from the glands to the milk ducts in preparation to feed the baby). The amount of milk produced can also be reduced if milk ducts are damaged.

In addition, implants can potentially pinch milk ducts and block the flow of breast milk.

Elements to consider

If you are planning on breastfeeding following a breast augmentation surgery, there are a few elements to consider that could help minimise the risk to your ability to naturally feed your baby:

1. Type of implant
2. Placement of the implant
3. Surgical technique

1. Type of implant

There are two main types of implants that are used in the UK, saline gel implants or silicone gel implants.

Saline gel implants are filled with saline water, which healthcare providers believe has no harmful effect if it becomes mixed with breast milk.

In addition, silicone gel implants are also believed to have no harmful impact if the silicone becomes mixed with breast milk.

However, both types of implant have their pros and cons with regard to the effect they can have on your health. For more information on which type of implant is safest for you, read our blog post: Silicone vs. saline breast implants: which is safest?.

2. Placement of the implant

There are two locations in which your breast implant can be placed: underneath the chest muscle and in-between the breast tissue and chest muscle.

It is believed that implants that lie beneath the chest muscle are less likely to cause damage to milk ducts and nerves, and so have less impact on milk production.

Implants placed between the chest muscle and breast tissue are said to exert more pressure on the milk ducts and glands, which can interfere with the production and flow of breast milk.

3. Surgical technique

The process whereby your surgeon inserts your implant is also worth considering in addition to the location of the implant.

Below, we’ll explain the different surgical techniques and how they could affect your ability to breastfeed.

Inframammary technique

The most commonly used technique for breast augmentation, the inframammary technique involves making an incision underneath the breast, or along the breast fold, in order to insert the implant. By leaving the glandular tissue and nerves intact, this method can have minimal impact on milk production.

Periareolar incision technique

The periareolar incision technique makes an incision around the edge of the nipple and the areola in order to insert the implant. This has been associated with an increased risk of nerve damage and damage to the milk ducts and glands. Nerve damage can affect the neurohormonal reflex that is needed to make and release breast milk.

Axillary enlargement

Axillary enlargement is where the incision is made under the arm – near the armpit – and the implant is then placed under the chest muscle. This technique leaves nerves and glandular tissue intact and is less likely to cause any damage that could affect breastfeeding.

If you have any concerns or questions about breastfeeding following surgery, you are advised to consult with your doctor or surgeon.

Alternatively, if you have suffered as a result of a breast augmentation gone wrong, get in touch with us today to find out if you have a claim for compensation on a no-win, no-fee basis. Call us on 0808 149 7888, or request a call back by completing our contact form.

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.