It is important that women who choose breast implant surgery for reconstruction or augmentation be aware that implants have the potential to interfere with breastfeeding, mammograms or breast self-examinations.

The implant surgery itself does not affect the milk ducts and many women who have had breast augmentation have breastfed their children successfully. However, according to the Institute of Medicine (IOM), a woman who has had breast augmentation may experience lactation insufficiency. This means that a nursing mother may find it difficult to create an adequate milk supply for her baby. It appears that these difficulties are more common among implant surgeries that use the areola as the incision site, which may sever some of the ducts that carry milk to the nipple.

Breast implants are devices that do not last indefinitely and there is a strong possibility that the implant will eventually rupture. When deciding whether to have breast implants, it is recommended that the patient consider that the implants will have to be replaced within five to 10 years, if not earlier. Some implants have been known to deflate or rupture within just a few months of surgery, while others may last for 10 years. Common causes for rupture include:

• Normal wear and tear
• Routine mammography
• Trauma to the chest (e.g., car accident) 
• Assault or other strong blow to the chest
• Sports injuries

It is important to note that insurance companies almost invariably cover reconstructive surgery required because of a disease process. Augmentation generally desired for cosmetic reason – even those that have ruptured – may or may not be covered under a patient’s policy.