Breast Implants and Pregnancy: What to Know
Many individuals with breast implants consider pregnancy and often wonder about the implications. Breast implants, which can contain either saline solution or silicone gel, are a common cosmetic choice. It is helpful to understand that many people with implants successfully navigate both pregnancy and breastfeeding. Concerns that arise regarding this topic are common and understandable.
Breastfeeding Considerations
The ability to breastfeed after breast augmentation is a primary concern for many individuals. Breast implants are typically placed either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or underneath the chest muscle (submuscular). This common placement usually means the implants do not directly interfere with the milk ducts or the nerves that regulate milk production and release. Consequently, most individuals with breast implants can breastfeed their infants successfully.
However, the type of incision used during implant surgery can sometimes influence breastfeeding success. For instance, a periareolar incision, made around the nipple, carries a slightly higher potential for affecting the nerves or milk ducts. Even with such an incision, successful breastfeeding remains possible, though some individuals might experience reduced milk supply. Factors unrelated to implants, such as a pre-existing low milk supply, can also affect breastfeeding outcomes. Consulting with a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and support.
Implant Changes During and After Pregnancy
Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring about significant natural transformations in breast tissue. Breasts typically enlarge due to hormonal changes, and they may experience engorgement, stretching, and subsequent sagging. These natural physiological changes can also influence the appearance and feel of breast implants.
The increased breast volume during pregnancy might temporarily make implants less noticeable. After pregnancy and breastfeeding, as breast tissue naturally reduces in volume, implants might become more prominent or their position could shift. Some individuals might observe changes such as a “double bubble” effect, where the natural breast tissue separates from the implant, or increased rippling of the implant. These alterations are primarily a result of the body’s natural processes rather than an issue with the implants themselves. Significant changes in breast appearance might lead some individuals to consider revision surgery later on.
Safety Aspects for Mother and Child
A common concern revolves around the safety of breast implant materials for both the pregnant individual and the developing baby. Current research indicates that breast implants, whether filled with saline or silicone, generally do not pose a significant risk to fetal development during pregnancy. The implant shell forms a barrier, largely containing the filler material.
While trace amounts of silicone might theoretically be found in breast milk from silicone implants, these amounts are not currently considered harmful to the infant based on available evidence. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health organizations have not issued warnings against breastfeeding with silicone implants due to safety concerns for the infant. Individuals with specific concerns should discuss them with their healthcare provider for personalized reassurance and information.
Navigating Pregnancy with Implants
Open communication with healthcare providers is important when navigating pregnancy with breast implants. It is beneficial to discuss the presence of implants with both your obstetrician and your plastic surgeon. Regular check-ups can help monitor both your health and the condition of your implants throughout pregnancy.
Routine imaging, such as mammograms, might require slight adjustments in technique for individuals with implants, but they are still possible and effective. If aesthetic changes are desired after pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is generally recommended to wait until breastfeeding is complete and breast size has stabilized. This allows for a more accurate assessment of breast volume and shape before considering any future implant procedures.