How Pregnancy And Breastfeeding Impact Breast Implants
During pregnancy, women experience changes in the size and shape of their breasts — regardless of whether they have undergone breast augmentation. “Pregnancy will often change the shape of your breast tissue, but the implants will remain the same,” says Melissa Doft, MD, a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of Doft Plastic Surgery in New York City. “The hormonal changes during pregnancy affect the structure of your breasts but have no effect on the implant.”
Hormone levels (including estrogen and progesterone) coupled with weight fluctuations lead to changes to the breast. “Larger breast changes tend to occur with more significant weight gains and then loss,” Dr. Doft says. To avoid the dramatic variations that can lead to postpartum sagging and deflation, she recommends women take the advice of their OBGYN. “During your pregnancy, your obstetrician will help guide you on the appropriate amount of weight that your body should gain,” she explains. “Try to stay within range of the recommendations to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, loose skin, and deflated breasts.”