How Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Impact Breast Augmentation
- Posted on: Apr 15 2025
Pregnancy and breastfeeding bring many changes to the body, and for those with breast implants, these transformations can raise concerns. Will your breast implants change shape? Can you still breastfeed safely? Understanding the effects of pregnancy on breast augmentation can help you plan your aesthetic goals.
At Sasson Plastic Surgery in Great Neck, NY, our practice is led by Dr. Homayoun Sasson, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience specializing in breast and body procedures. A University of Massachusetts Medical School graduate, Dr. Sasson completed his general surgery residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and plastic and reconstructive surgery training at Yale University Hospital.Â
How Does Pregnancy Affect Breast Implants?
Pregnancy naturally causes breast tissue to expand and contract, which can impact the look and feel of breast implants. While implants remain unchanged, surrounding tissues may stretch, leading to changes in appearance. Some of the key effects of pregnancy on breast implants include:
- Volume Fluctuation:Â Breast size may temporarily increase during pregnancy and shrink post-breastfeeding.
- Skin Elasticity Changes:Â The skin may stretch, causing a looser or sagging appearance.
- Capsular Contracture Risks:Â Hormonal changes can affect the tissue around implants, though this is rare.
- Potential Need for Revision Surgery:Â Some women seek a breast lift or implant adjustment post-pregnancy.
Although pregnancy does not harm the implants themselves, these natural body changes may alter aesthetic results.
Can You Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?
Many women can successfully breastfeed with implants, but individual factors play a role. The ability to breastfeed depends on surgical technique and personal anatomy. Some of the factors influencing breastfeeding after augmentation include:
- Incision Placement:Â Inframammary (under-breast) and transaxillary (underarm) incisions usually do not affect milk ducts. Periareolar (around the nipple) incisions may impact breastfeeding ability.
- Implant Positioning:Â Implants placed under the muscle are less likely to interfere with lactation.
- Nerve Sensitivity:Â Loss of nipple sensation may affect milk letdown, but this is uncommon.
If you are considering future pregnancies, it’s crucial to discuss your breastfeeding goals with Dr. Sasson. This conversation can help guide your implant choices, ensuring that your aesthetic vision aligns with your future plans.
When Is the Best Time for Breast Augmentation After Pregnancy?
Timing breast augmentation after pregnancy is essential for optimal results. Experts recommend waiting until the body has fully recovered from pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Ideal timing for post-pregnancy breast augmentation:
- 6 Months After Breastfeeding:Â Allows breast tissue to stabilize before surgery.
- When Family Planning Is Complete:Â Further pregnancies can alter surgical results.
- If Weight Is Stable:Â Significant weight fluctuations can impact breast appearance.
Discussing your goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Sasson, ensures a customized approach that aligns with your aesthetic vision.
Enhance Your Confidence with Breast Augmentation
Pregnancy can change your body, but your confidence doesn’t have to suffer. Call Sasson Plastic Surgery in Great Neck, NY, at 516-487-5017 to schedule a consultation.
Posted in: breast augmentation
