Breast enlargement after childbirth: A guide for new mothers

This article has been reviewed and approved by Chief Medical and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Ali Bagher on March 15, 2024.

There is no denying that the body undergoes major changes both during and after pregnancy. For some, these changes are permanent, while others return to their original body once it has recovered. While it is impossible to say how pregnancy will affect you, what we do know is that many women find that their breasts do not quite return to their original shape and size. That's why it's common to undergo breast augmentation after having children.

And it's no wonder - when you're pregnant, your whole body adjusts to nourish your baby. Pregnancy hormones, weight gain and breastfeeding can all have a big impact on how your breasts will look afterwards. Post-baby breast augmentation can be a way for some people to restore fullness to their breasts and get back the body they recognize and love.

Breast enlargement before or after pregnancy - what is best?

Breast augmentation after pregnancy does not, in theory, affect your pregnancy or breastfeeding, but it is always best to have the operation after the birth of your baby, when your body has had a chance to recover. It is also not recommended to have surgery before you have finished breastfeeding your baby. Your breasts need time to heal after surgery, without the stress that breastfeeding can cause.

Breast augmentation after childbirth is a way for you to choose how you want your breasts to look, and it increases your chances of being satisfied with the results. Even if you recover quickly after the procedure, your breasts need about 6 months to fully heal and adapt to your body and tissue.

Today, many new mothers choose to turn to professional clinics to help them increase the fullness of their breasts again. Some opt for silicone implants to increase volume, while others prefer a breast lift if their breasts have started to sag more than before. You can also choose to undergo a so-called 'breast lift'. mommy makeoverwhich, as the name suggests, is a full body makeover that can be customized for you. It often includes breast surgery of some kind, as well as a tummy tuck and possibly liposuction.

Silicone breasts before and after breastfeeding

Many people are worried that the breast implants they already have will cause problems with breastfeeding after giving birth, but this is rarely the case. If you had your breast surgery well before your pregnancy, they should not cause any problems. However, if you are wondering whether to operate before or after breastfeeding an already born baby, the answer is more clear: you should always wait until you have finished breastfeeding before undergoing breast augmentation.

The reason why you should wait to have surgery is simply because breastfeeding will also affect the appearance of your breasts. Also, you will not be able to continue breastfeeding your baby immediately after the surgery and your milk production may stop. Therefore, make the most of your time with your baby and wait until breastfeeding is finished. Only then will your body be ready to receive and adapt to your new breasts.

I am not breastfeeding - can I have surgery earlier?

If you are unable or unwilling to breastfeed, you can have breast surgery earlier than women who are breastfeeding. However, it is still important that your body has healed properly after giving birth and that you have returned to a normal weight. When we gain weight during pregnancy, we usually get fuller breasts, but once the baby is out, it is not uncommon to return to the original weight again. Your breasts may feel thinner and lose their shape.

Breast augmentation can help you regain your shape in a beautiful and natural way. If you have not yet lost the majority of your pregnancy pounds, it is best to wait. While it is possible to undergo weight changes while having silicone breasts, major changes in weight can affect the final result.

Aftercare - breast augmentation after children

There are several reasons why it is recommended to wait until your body has recovered before undergoing breast augmentation. As mentioned earlier, your body needs time to heal and you need to spend important time with your new baby. There are also other factors that make silicone breasts after childbirth something you should not rush too much, namely the aftercare.

When you undergo breast surgery, you will be given very clear instructions on how to manage the aftercare. For example, it is very important that you do not lift too much during the first period and that you use a support bra. As many people experience pain and soreness in their arms, armpits and chest, carrying a small child all the time is not recommended. As a new surgeon, it will therefore be difficult for you to give your child the closeness he or she needs for a period of time. Even changing a diaper can be difficult and painful when you have just had surgery.

Resuming breastfeeding after breast augmentation

Do you want to have breast surgery before you have finished breastfeeding your baby? Then it's important to think carefully. Factors such as the location of the implant, your body and your milk production are important to consider. After breast augmentation, your milk production can be affected. Both breast tissue and milk ducts can be stretched or compressed during surgery. This in turn can affect your milk flow.

Every body is unique and reacts differently to breast surgery. Some people are able to resume breastfeeding after their breasts have healed, while others have more difficulty. As there is no way of knowing what will happen to you, it is always best to wait until you have finished breastfeeding.

Want to know more about breast augmentation after childbirth or other surgeries after pregnancy? Contact us here or book a consultation with a surgeon to discuss your options. We are happy to answer your questions.