Breast Implants and Pregnancy

Breast implants and pregnancy are certainly factors in a women�s life that will affect one another to some degree. Many women have undergone breast augmentation surgery to improve their appearance, bolster their confidence or correct some injury or congenital abnormality. Pregnancy is one of the most rewarding of all life experiences a woman can enjoy. It is wise to consider the potential interactions between breast implants

and your pregnant body in order to make the right choices for both mom and for baby.

Breast Implants and Pregnancy / Risks

Breast implants do not pose any particular health risk to the developing fetus. Countless studies have shown that saline implants, as well as silicone implants, do not cause any health concerns or developmental issues for the child. Of course, ruptured or leaking breast implants might be a danger and should always be removed or changed by a qualified doctor as soon as possible. If you suspect that your implants might be damaged, it is advisable to have them checked before getting pregnant.

Breast Implants and Pregnancy / Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is one factor to consider when deciding upon whether or not to get implants. Some surgeries can prevent a woman from being able to successfully nurse her child. Procedures which generally involve cutting around or moving the nipple demonstrate the highest risk for breastfeeding interference. Even if you are not thinking about having children, it is still a good idea to discuss this possibility with your surgeon prior to the augmentation surgery. You do not want to limit yourself from the joy of nursing that precious child if you decide to have a baby in the future�

Breastfeeding is still the preferred option for implanted mothers who can nurse. The milk from a mother�s breast is the best source of nutrition and antibodies for a developing newborn.

Breast Implants and Pregnancy / Effects

The pregnancy itself, as well as nursing, might take an aesthetic toll on your breasts. Many women, especially those with large implants experience considerable sagging after pregnancy. This can be quite pronounced if the implants are low to begin with or if they have been placed in the subglandular position. Surgical implant revision or breast lift is sometimes a good option after the mother is finished nursing.

If you are considering getting implants or undergoing mastopexy and plan on becoming pregnant in the near future, it might be advisable to wait until after the baby is born. This way you do not have to face potential surgical revision to repair any damage done by the pregnancy. If you are thinking about revising your current implants, it is certainly a safe bet to wait if you are planning a pregnancy. This way, you can fix your current issues at the same time you address future concerns caused by the birth and nursing.

The Bottom Line on Breast Implants and Pregnancy

Both of these factors are meaningful in many women�s lives. Being a mom is a great role, but it does not mean that all your own hopes and dreams have to be set aside. With proper planning and forethought, a woman can be a great mom and still maintain her beautiful breasts. The combination of implants and breast lift will fix any damage that might be done during this demanding time on a woman�s body. Talk to your doctor about how your implants might be affected by your pregnancy and what you can do to experience the best postpartum results possible.

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5/30/08