Does breastmilk need to be completely dried up before surgery? (Photo)

Thank you for your question!A general rule most surgeons follow is that patients should wait at least 6 months after breast feeding before having breast augmentation to decrease the risk of wound infection.If the nipple discharge occurs without stimulation you should probably wait to have surgery. If it is only with stimulation, it is fine to have surgery after 6 months. The actual time will depend on how much your body changes and the preference of your surgeon.However, wound infection is mostly an issue for periareolar (around the nipple) and inframammary incisions, not the transaxillary (under the armpit) incision. When the implant is placed through the areola (dark pigmented region around the nipple), there are higher chances of implant contamination and capsular contracture, infection, etc. As such, ceasing of milk discharge is more of an issue for the periareolar incision.Another reason to wait is because your breasts will be enlarged with milk. For some period of time after stopping breastfeeding, your breasts will involute (decrease in size). You want to be certain that the breast has reached a stable size before considering breast augmentation, otherwise your breasts will not be as full as desired after surgery.You should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best timing for your surgery.

Great question! Yes, #breastmilk will need to be nonproductive generally about 3 months prior to #surgery. Each #BCPS has their own protocols, so I suggest you speak with your PS to receive their recommendations. Best wishes!

It is always best to wait until the breast tissue has returned to normal after lactation. Depending on the location of the scar, going through breast tissue can increase your  risks of infection and changes to the normal anatomy of the breast tissue. I would suggest speaking with a Board certified plastic surgeon for a full exam and treatment plan about the appropriate time for surgery.

Many plastic surgeons will wait six months after breastfeeding before performing a breast augmentation.  This allows the tissues in the breast enough time to return to their baseline and ensure a more predictable result.  Make sure to have a consultation by a plastic surgeon certified before the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and you'll be able to discuss the proper timing for you.Best of luck,Keith M. Blechman, MDNew York, NY

Thank you for your excellent question.  It is recommended that a woman wait at least three months and oftentimes up to 6 for a breast augmentation after breastfeeding so that their glandular tissue is no longer producing milk and is at its new baseline.  Though a small amount of discharge is normal in some women, your plastic surgeon will be able to best help you decide on the timing of surgery.  Hope this helps.

Thank you for your question.  Yes, the milk needs to be completely gone before surgery.  At our office we recommend no lactation for 3 months prior to surgery.  Check with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon on their protocols. 

Breast milk needs to be dry before breast augmentation.  The risk of infection is too high if a woman is still lactating during the procedure.  Also, the size and shape of the breast should be stable to best determine the final result with breast implants.Always visit with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in breast enhancement procedures to guarantee the best possible result.Good Luck!

Thank you for your question and photo. This is a common question asked by patients interested in breast surgery after pregnancy. Generally, I advise patients to wait at least 6 months after breast feeding to pursue breast augmentation or any other breast procedure. This will typically allow enough time for fullness to subside, breast tissue to contract and discontinued flow of breast milk. With that being said, each and every patient is different so some women may need to wait longer than 6 months for surgery. I suggest that you consult with board certified plastic surgeons to discuss your options. Best of luck,

Breast milk when planning a breast augmentation may impose some problems, including the infection.  This is typically troublesome in some cases, particularly when the incision is made in areola area.  I would like the breast to be dry and free of breast milk prior to surgery, and it usually takes 3-6 months after stopping breast feeding.Best,Alex Kim, MD

Usually patients should wait at least six months after breast feeding before having breast augmentation to decrease the risk of wound infection.  If the nipple discharge occurs without stimulation you should probably wait to have surgery.  If it is only with stimulation, you are probably alright for surgery after the six month point.  You should consult with American Board of Plastic Surgery certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and seek the recommendation of the surgeon you are planning on having do the procedure.