Persistent lactation in bilateral breast implant augmentation: A case report and review of the literature

TL;DR

A woman with persistent lactation had complications after breast implant surgery, highlighting the need to check for lactation before such procedures.

Contribution

This case report highlights the risk of postoperative infection in patients with galactorrhoea undergoing breast implant surgery.

Findings

Persistent lactation can increase the risk of postoperative infection after breast implant surgery.

Preoperative assessment should include checking for galactorrhoea to avoid complications.

Deferring implant surgery until lactation resolves may improve outcomes.

Abstract

Persistent lactation, or galactorrhoea, is a common problem which is infrequently seen in the setting of aesthetic surgery. Increasing frequency of aesthetic breast surgery such as breast augmentation suggests a need for improved understanding of the effect of galactorrhoea on surgical outcomes.

A 34-year-old patient underwent day-case bilateral breast reduction/mastopexy combined with sub-muscular implant augmentation, abdominoplasty and bilateral liposuction to the flanks. She reported to have stopped breastfeeding more than 6 months prior. Intraoperatively, the breast tissue was noted to be lactating. The procedure was completed as planned and a routine postoperative plan was followed including oral antibiotics, analgesia and compression garments. The patient was discharged, however reattended on postoperative day 10 with breast pain and fevers. She was treated for right breast surgical site infection and required washout and implant removal. She was referred to Endocrinology for treatment of galactorrhoea with Bromocriptine and Cabergoline. She subsequently underwent revision implant augmentation with good outcomes.

This case highlights the increased likelihood of post-operative infection in galactorrhoea associated with breast implant augmentation. It is important to exclude lactation preoperatively and avoid a prosthesis in this situation, to minimise this risk and optimise surgical outcomes.

Aesthetic breast surgeons must be aware of the incidence of galactorrhoea, and its possible effects on risks of postoperative complications and poor aesthetic outcomes. The authors suggest deferring implant augmentation until complete resolution of lactation where possible.

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