How Does Breast Augmentation Impact Breastfeeding?
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If you're like many women interested in breast augmentation surgery but planning (or considering) having children in the future, you may have questions about how breast augmentation could affect your ability to breastfeed. At Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C., board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi believes that women deserve to feel confident about their figure at all stages of life and is committed to helping patients understand their options for breast enhancement surgery in the context of their plans to potentially become pregnant and breastfeed. Keep reading to find answers to some of the most common questions about breastfeeding after breast augmentation surgery to help better understand whether now may be the right time for your procedure.
Should I wait until I'm done having kids to get breast implants?
One common question among women considering breast augmentation is whether they should wait until they have finished having children. While breast implants do not typically interfere with pregnancy or childbirth, some women prefer to postpone breast augmentation until after they have completed their family to avoid potential changes in breast size and shape that may occur with weight fluctuation associated with pregnancy. Additionally, mothers who plan to breastfeed may also consider deferring breast augmentation surgery until after they are done having children to avoid potential difficulties they may encounter with nursing.
What happens if I get pregnant after breast augmentation surgery?
If you become pregnant after breast augmentation surgery, your breasts may undergo changes as a result of hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and milk production. These changes can affect the appearance of your implants and may result in sagging or stretching of the breast tissue and skin. While some women may experience minimal changes, others may notice more dramatic breast implant changes during and after pregnancy.
Will I be able to breastfeed with implants?
Many women with breast implants are able to breastfeed successfully, while others may encounter challenges. Factors that may influence your ability to breastfeed with implants include:
- Implant size and type
- Implant placement (above or below the muscle)
- Surgical technique
- Nipple sensation
- Individual anatomy
It's important to keep in mind that each patient's experience will be unique, and there is no definitive answer that you will or won't be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Mesbahi will work closely with you to develop a personalized surgical plan that takes your future breastfeeding goals into account, which may involve techniques such as fat transfer vs. implants.
Will I need breast revision surgery after breastfeeding with implants?
After breastfeeding, some women may notice changes in the appearance of their breasts, such as deflation, asymmetry, or sagging. In such cases, breast revision surgery may be recommended to address these concerns and help achieve your desired aesthetic outcome. Dr. Mesbahi will evaluate your breasts and discuss your options for breast revision surgery based on your individual needs and goals to help restore your pre-pregnancy figure once again.
Know your options for breastfeeding after breast augmentation in McLean, VA
While breast augmentation can have implications for breastfeeding, many women are able to successfully nurse their child after breast enhancement surgery. Still, it's important to have a full understanding of how a breast augmentation may affect your ability to breastfeed. For more information about your options for breast augmentation surgery if you plan to breastfeed in the future, call Mesbahi Plastic Surgery to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Washington, D.C. board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi today.