Post breastfeeding / breast augmentation - how long should I wait to get the surgery?

Question

How long after I end my breastfeeding journey must I wait to get the actual surgery? Lift (I'm assuming) + implant.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Most surgeons prefer waiting at least 3 to 6 months after breastfeeding has completely stopped before a breast lift with implants. The key is not just the calendar, but that milk production has stopped, breast size is stable, and your weight is stable.

Waiting allows the breast tissue and skin envelope to settle, which helps with implant sizing, lift planning, symmetry, and lowering the risk of fluid, inflammation, or wound-healing problems. If you still have milk leakage, breast tenderness, or changing size, it is usually better to wait longer. Once things are stable, an in-person exam can determine whether you need an implant alone, a lift with implant, or a staged approach.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. We typically advise at least 6 months after you have completely stopped breast feeding. Of course speak to you plastic surgeon about this, they have a different wait time.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear danielleemaa,
the ideal timing for breast augmentation when you are breastfeeding is about six months after you have completely stopped breastfeeding. You can speak and visit a board-certified plastic surgeon to further discuss your preferences and the options that are available for you, especially if you are looking forward to having another child.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Michelle Zweifler, MD · Answer

We usually recommend waiting 6 months after breast feeding before elective breast lift and/or breast implants.  Pregnancy weight loss should be stable or close to desired.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

During pregnancy, your breasts will enlarge from hormonal changes and milk production. Afterward, they might return to their original size or get smaller, bigger or droopier. You won’t know the verdict until six months after you have stopped breastfeeding or, if you are not breastfeeding, six months after childbirth. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to wait at least 6 months after you stop breast feeding to let your breasts completely settle down from pregnancy and breast feeding before having surgery.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

You should plan on waiting six months post breast-feeding to consider either a breast lift or augmentation or combine procedure. 
Best wishes, 
Dr. Taranow.

Post breastfeeding / breast augmentation - how long should I wait to get the surgery?

Answers (7)

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