Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery can present its own set of challenges and emotional twists. Ibiza has generously shared her heartfelt journey with us, and we invite you to read her story and find valuable advice if you're navigating a similar path.
Breastfeeding After Breast Reduction Surgery
"My breast reduction surgery was done when I was really young. For medical reasons. I was a kid with back problems and the size of my breasts was something that heavily impacted my life, my activities and my perception about myself.
It was a no brainer. Had to be done.
There was never a discussion about how that could have impacted me in a negative way, apart from risks of the surgery. Never a single comment on how that could affect my choices on breastfeeding.
I was left with massive scars in both sides of my breasts but never have I ever had a second thought about it. It had to be done at the time.
When time came for me to have a baby and breastfeeding was my choice for us I started to study and investigate how thats could impact our journey.
I went back to my doctor and contacted a lactation consultant, decided to collect colostrum at 36 weeks pregnant ( best decision ever as the harvested colostrum was his fed to him through a syringe since we had to be separated right after his birth).
I struggled with a myriad of factors, including a low milk production.
Pumping was hard as the structures inside the breast had changed a lot - glands had been removed, ducts had been moved around. I could express milk by hand but no much would come out while through the pump.
I hand expressed so much both my breasts had big bruises.
Galactogogues were used to a big extent, several consultants and doctors tried to (and) help(ed) me.
We had to supplement with formula around Toa’s fourth month. That was all done at the breast. I knew I wanted our journey to be successful but first I needed to redefine my own definitions of success.
Nineteen months later we are still here, navigating new waters now, new discoveries, new struggles, new challenges.
If I could leave anyone with an advice regarding breastfeeding it would be : Educate yourself - Knowledge will free you from your fears! Find yourself a good support system - it will hold you in place! 💜 "
Writen by Ibiza Bolonini
Posted on Instagram @barbaracrepaldiphoto on May 28, 2024.
≫ These images are part of the “Breastfeeding Moment” project by photographer Barbara Crepaldi, with the support of doula Marcela Rios. The goal of this project is to share valuable information and create beautiful memories for the featured mothers. Every two months, Barbara Crepaldi Photography will host a raffle for subscribed women. The winner will receive a studio breastfeeding shoot, and her photos and story will be featured on Instagram and here. For more information on how to participate, please visit the instagram page @BarbaraCrepaldiPhoto.
