Breastfeeding After A Breast Lift
What Is Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lift surgery, also known as breast mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to lift, reposition, and reshape the breasts, nipples, and areola. This is a popular procedure for women who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts due to aging or genetics, after significant weight loss, and often after pregnancy and breastfeeding. But sometimes women are ready to refine the appearance of their breasts right now, even if they plan to have children in the future.
How Is A Breast Lift Done?
Breast lift surgery is not a one-size-fits-all surgical solution. Your plastic surgeon will customize the procedure with mastopexy surgical techniques that will help you achieve optimal results based on the appearance of your breasts currently and your goals for breast rejuvenation. This means that your surgeon could decide between several incision methods that may be more or less invasive. More invasive techniques are more likely to impact your ability to breastfeed after breast lift surgery.
To learn more about the techniques your doctor may use for your breast mastopexy, read Techniques Your Plastic Surgeon May Use For Your Breast Lift.
How Can A Breast Lift Affect My Ability To Breastfeed?
The greatest risk to your ability to breastfeed after breast lift surgery is the possible damage to your milk ducts and nerves in your breasts. Most breast lift surgical techniques involve the repositioning of the nipple higher on the breast profile and the refining of the size and shape of the areola. Typically, the nipple remains attached to your blood supply throughout the surgery, however, there is a risk that the incision around the areola can injure milk ducts and nerves. After recovery and over time, it is possible for milk ducts and nerves to form new pathways and regain functionality, but it is very hard to predict this before or during surgery.
So Will I Be Able To Breastfeed If I Choose To Have Breast Lift Surgery?
Probably! Most women who have had breast lift surgery are able to produce some milk after breast lift surgery. Even if you are unable to produce a full milk supply, you and your baby will still benefit from the experience of breastfeeding, even if you need to supplement. Of course, it is impossible to tell before or even after surgery if your ability to produce a full milk supply is impacted by your breast lift surgery. You will not know until after you give birth and attempt breastfeeding. If you plan to have children and breastfeeding is important to you, discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. You may choose to wait to have breast lift surgery until you are done having children. Keep in mind that the size and shape of your breasts will be affected by pregnancy and breastfeeding and that the lift and profile of your breasts will likely change after your baby is born, even if you have previously had breast lift surgery.
Breast Lift Surgery When The Time Is Right At Alberta Plastic Surgery
If you plan to have children, breastfeeding after breast lift surgery is possible. If you are planning to become pregnant and breastfeed in the future, talk to your plastic surgeon. They will have the insight and advice to help you decide if breast mastopexy is right for you, right now. If you are ready to explore your options for transformative breast lift surgery now or in the future, book your complimentary consultation with Dr. Ladak.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in cosmetic plastic surgery and other non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take to recover after breast lift surgery?
A: Recovery will take up to six weeks and the final results of your surgery may not be apparent for up to one year. To learn more about recovery after breast lift surgery, click here.
Q: Can I have a breast reduction and lift at the same time?
A: A breast reduction will usually include a lift to help patients achieve the results they desire. A lift can also be performed with augmentation or fat transfer. The bonus is that when you do both together, you only need one anaesthetic and one recovery period.
Q: Will breast implants affect my ability to breastfeed?
A: As with breast lift surgery, there is a potential risk to the milk ducts and nerves in your breasts that can impact milk production and your ability to breastfeed, but many women with breast implants are able to breastfeed. Breast implants placed below the muscle seem to have less effect on breastfeeding than implants placed above the muscle. Learn more about implant placement by reading Over Muscle vs Under Muscle Implants: Which Is Better?.
