This Article Has Been Medically Approved By
Dr. George H. Sanders
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves inserting breast implants that change the shape, size, and/or position of your natural breasts. There are many different considerations when deciding on what type of augmentation to choose, including the size, position, type of implants, and how pregnancy may impact them.
What Happens to Breasts During Pregnancy?
Breasts go through a significant number of changes during pregnancy. While every woman’s body is different, generally, your breasts will change to accommodate breastfeeding, which causes the breasts to become larger, heavier, and more sensitive.
This happens because of increased blood flow to the area and tissue growth, which causes the breasts to become more tender. Additionally, your areola (the area surrounding the nipple) can change in size and texture, and the nipples can become sore. Your breasts may also begin to sag or droop, which causes additional strain on the supporting ligaments and tissues.
Should You Wait Until After Pregnancy for Breast Implants?
Increasingly, women are postponing parenthood in favor of professional, financial, and personal growth. This is an important time in a woman’s life, when she is enjoying her life, thinking of and planning for the future, and taking time to live her life.
If this resonates with you or you simply don’t want to wait until after you’ve had children, you do not need to wait until after pregnancy to have your breast augmentation.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the breasts shift and change considerably because of hormonal changes and to prepare the body for milk production. If you have your breast augmentation prior to pregnancy, it can affect the appearance of your implants, so a new surgery may be necessary to get them back to pre-pregnancy appearance.
How Long Should I Wait After Childbirth for Breast Implants?
Ideally, your breasts should return to normal before you receive breast implants, and the length of time will vary for each individual. It may take approximately three months after your baby is completely weaned for your breasts to return to their “new normal.”
In some cases, you may choose not to breastfeed, in which case, your doctor may prescribe lactation suppressants or lactation inhibitors to assist in the drying up of breast milk and reduce certain hormones that cause milk production. Naturally, this will reduce the time you’ll need to wait.
Your surgeon can discuss these things with you to help you make the best decisions in your individual case.
Alternatives to Breast Implants Before Pregnancy
Of course, certain types of physical exercises can strengthen the chest muscles and help tone and tighten the breast area. However, cosmetic options are also available that don’t involve the use of implants.
Breast Lifts are a safe and effective alternative that involves lifting the breasts to enhance the appearance without implants.
Breast Augmentation and Pregnancy
While it’s often suggested women wait until after pregnancy, it’s not necessary to do so, and whether you have your breast augmentation before or after childbirth, it’s important to be clear about what to expect either way. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders today to discuss your breast augmentation before pregnancy.
