Why do you have to wait until you stop breastfeeding before getting liposuction? Is there a safety reason?

Question

I would like to get liposuction in the fall, however, one doctor stated that I will have to wait until I stop breastfeeding in order to have liposuction of the abs, flanks and back.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cherryred,
most plastic surgeons will recommend you to wait until you stop breastfeeding because medications used during liposuction can go into the breast milk and baby. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

Because the anesthetic used in the tumescent fluid will be secreted in the breast milk, medicating the baby. This is undesirable.  Better to wait.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You need to stop breastfeeding before having surgery due to the medications that you will be on will affect your milk for your baby. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. We recommend patients to wait for around 6 months after giving birth and have stopped breastfeeding. This way we will be working from a stable situation to reach the goals we plan together. Also you are not allowed to breastfeed during the recovery process because of the medications you have to take. you definitely have to choose your surgeon correctly and make sure that he/she has the training and experience to meet your goals with absolute safety.  A key quality indicator is Board Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.  Don’t settle for less than a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with specialized expertise in this procedure.

Roger Tsai, MD · Answer

Great question!  The liposuction procedure itself isn't an issue while breastfeeding.  The issue is the anesthetic medication used to put you asleep as well as the medications in the tumescent solution used during liposuction can stay in your body for some time.  If you are breastfeeding, these medications can get into the milk and therefore given to your baby which is obviously unsafe.  The timing of this can vary, so it is best to review your options with a few plastic surgeon.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai  @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

Breastfeeding is not a contraindication for liposuction as long as you are careful.  Because of all the fluid and medicine that is placed into the areas before the removal, the anesthesia medicines, and the pain medication, you would need to pump and discard for a period of time.  This could be a few days or could be for a week or more.  It just depends on your healing and pain medication use.  Sounds like you should have a second consultation with another board certified plastic surgeon and see what will work best for you.  Please see the below link for liposuction examples.  I hope this helps.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

The optimal candidate for any elective cosmetic procedure is healthy and has reached a stable weight with which they are content (preferably with a BMI < 30). The issue is less of medical danger but rather cosmetic outcome. When considering post partum surgery, many patients will take several months to stabilize as hormonal fluctuations subside. Breastfeeding can play a role in how quickly one reaches this plateau. With that in mind, any surgery should be delayed at least 6 months or 3 months post cessation of breast feeding (whichever is longer).The issue of passage of medication in breast milk should be considered. However, this is not typically a significant concern and is easily accommodated. Out an abundance of caution most will suggest a "pump and dump" strategy until the meds have cleared (a few days after stopping medication).As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Local anesthesia and pain relievers after surgery should not cause a problem.  Some PSs will advise you to discard your milk to be on the safe side.  Once you have discontinued medications after the lipo, your PS may approve you breast feeding after a few days.  Breast pumping can be done in the interim period. Check with you OB/GYN or the La Leche League International for advice.

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Yes, the recommendation to wait until you stop breastfeeding before getting liposuction is primarily for safety reasons. The hormonal changes and physical demands of breastfeeding can affect your body’s response to surgery and anesthesia. It’s essential to prioritize the well-being of both you and your baby. Consult with your healthcare provider and the surgeon to discuss your specific situation and ensure the best course of action for your health.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
It is basically because you can pass on the anesthetic used in the tumescent fluid and medication through breast milk to your baby.
l recommend you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your goals and anything you need to know.
Good luck :)

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