Hello everyone~
I have been looking for info on breastfeeding after reduction, and I was pointed towards this fora by an extremely helpful post on another forum I frequent. Anyway, I suppose an introduction and some explanations are in order. I recently decided rather than just complain about the physical discomfort that my breasts cause, I would try and see if something could be done about it. Currently I am just about a 36J or 36K, with some variation to to hormone/weight loss. I first inquired about the procedure about 10 years ago, when i was in the Army, but it was dropped, mostly due to the fact that my CO didn't think it was necessary. I am about 5'5", and around 150. I have been having tingles and numbness in my hands for about 2 years, and have had increasing limited mobility in my left arm. My regular doc referred me to a plastic surgeon, and the consult was about 2 weeks ago. The recommendation from her was too remove 1500g per side. I am having some difficulty with deciding about the operation (should mention, I haven't heard back from the insurance yet, so it might be a moot point) because I don't know if I do want kids. The surgeon was very up front, said that it was a 50/50 I'd have any chance at all, and I am able to breastfeed, there was no guarantee it would be a full supply. I am 28 years old, and I really don't know if I even want to have kids. I'd hate to put it off for hypothetical kids I might have, only to regret not doing it earlier. On the other hand, I am very pro BF for women that do have kids. Has anyone ever been in this position? Any tips or advice for me?
Thanks~
Nicole

Welcome! I was in a similar place as you when I had my surgery except I already had one child. I was a 36K and was having severe back problems. I was unable to bathe my daughter or really run around and play with her. I don't regret having the surgery when I did, though I do wish it hadn't been necessary in the first place.

As far as BFAR, your surgeon is wrong. You definitely CAN breast feed no matter how much milk you make. However, it is rare for someone post-surgery to be able to just put baby to breast and have a full supply. Many of us take galactagogues--herbals and medicines that boost supply--and even with that there are many of us that still need to supplement. Even if you think now you'd be okay with supplementing, you don't really know until you have to give your child formula how emotional it can be.

Have you read the book Defining Your Own Success by Diana West? I read it before my surgery so I'd have an idea what would happen when I nursed future children. It helped me get an idea of the challenges I'd be in for, which in turn gave me confidence to know I could get the surgery and still BF in some form.

Good luck with your decision. It's not an easy one.