It has become very common for a woman to get breast Implants long before considering pregnancy and children. Many questions may come to mind when discussing how pregnancy will affect their breast implants. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to the ways pregnancy will affect augmented breasts.
Will pregnancy interfere with my breast implants?
The short answer is no. Pregnancy will only affect the natural breast tissue and only in some women. There will likely be some enlargement of the breasts throughout the pregnancy and for a while post-birth, but the implant itself will not be affected. The aesthetic of your breasts may change, though, because as the breasts swell and milk production begins, the skin will stretch which may cause sagging as it would in natural breasts. This is true in some cases and should not be assessed or altered until breastfeeding has ended and milk production has stopped. The timing of this assessment will depend on the patient’s post-pregnancy recovery. At that time, you should consult with your plastic surgeon about restoring any damaged or sagging skin.
Can I still breastfeed with breast implants?
Yes, it is possible. Implants are typically situated underneath the muscle of the breast, and there is usually no disruption to the breast gland and milk ducts, so there should be no adverse effects to breast feeding should you choose to do so. It is important to discuss with your board-certified plastic surgeon if you are planning to have children and breastfeed after having implants.
Will my breasts still sag after pregnancy?
Not necessarily. Based on your genetics and your individual body, if the women in your family typically exhibited noticeable sagging in their breasts, you may notice this as well. If little change is shown in family members post-pregnancy, you can likely expect the same. You can consult with your plastic surgeon to restore any unwanted sagging with a breast lift.
How long should I wait after pregnancy before considering surgery?
Most physicians agree that waiting three to six months after breastfeeding and milk production has ended is the best way to ensure any augmented breasts will have the best outcome. During this window of time, your weight will stabilize and your hormone levels will change. When you are convinced the changes in your body have stabilized, you can consult with your surgeon about his or her opinions on the best steps moving forward.
If possible, talk to women in your immediate family to discuss how their breasts and bodies changed post-pregnancy. For some women, three months is sufficient for the body to return to normal, but for others, it may take longer. To ensure you get your desired results, you will want to be sure your body is prepared for surgery and is no longer affected by any post-pregnancy changes.
As always, it is important to confirm your plastic surgeon is board-certified to ensure the best possible outcome with your breast implants.