For most women, having a breast procedure is not a snap decision – there are many factors to consider and many questions to be answered. Some of these questions may center around how a breast procedure might affect future pregnancies and the ability to breastfeed. Another question may be how work done on the breasts might change after pregnancy and motherhood. Your doctor is the best person to answer these questions for you, but in the meantime, here is some information about breast procedures and motherhood.
Breast procedures
As you no doubt know, there are a few breast procedures to choose from if you aren’t happy about the size and/or shape of your breasts. You may be considering a breast lift (also known as “mastopexy”), breast reduction, or a breast augmentation. A breast lift not only lifts breasts but helps to give them a firmness and a shape that is aesthetically pleasing. A breast augmentation can increase bust size, help the breasts to look more symmetric, and give the body better proportions. A breast reduction reduces the size and the weight of the breasts.
How will a breast procedure affect my ability to breastfeed?
Every surgery comes with risks, but generally, a breast procedure will not affect future milk production. In a mastopexy or reduction procedure, the milk-producing tissue is left intact. In a breast augmentation procedure, the implants are placed in such a way that does not interfere with milk ducts and mammary glands.
Research from the La Leche League (a group that provides encouragement and education for women considering breastfeeding) has shown that a woman’s milk supply is most productive about 5 years after a breast procedure.
How will motherhood affect my breast procedure?
Many women choose to put off any breast work until after they are done having children and breastfeeding, for the simple fact that the body goes through a lot of changes with pregnancy. Even breasts with implants aren’t immune to these changes.
If you are considering a breast procedure but you have questions, call Specialists in Plastic Surgery in Raleigh, North Carolina, for a consultation. Call (919) 785-0505 today!