Breast augmentation or lift after pregnancy
Brian S. Glatt, M.D.

Numerous scientific studies have proven that breast implants are safe and effective for improving breast aesthetics. Most women experience loss of volume as well of stretching of the skin of their breasts after having children, especially if they breastfed. Breast implants can help with both of these issues, although you may need a breast lift at the same time if the changes are more severe.

A breast implant provides volume to make up for the loss of tissue and can also help to fill out the stretched out loose skin envelope. For some women, though, implants alone are not enough to provide enough fill to fully correct the excess skin envelope and to reposition the breast higher on the chest. In these situations, a breast lift (mastopexy) will be needed in addition to an implant. A breast lift will remove the excess skin and reposition the nipple and areola to a higher and more central location on the breast mound. The areola is also most often reduced in size as well.

Women undergoing breast augmentation now have the option of choosing to utilize silicone gel breast implants or saline filled breast implants. While saline has traditionally provided excellent results and still does, patients are usually quite surprised when they hold a silicone gel implant in one hand and a saline filled implant in the other. The silicone gel implants do feel much more soft and natural and in the right patients, can provide a superior result. I spend a lot of time talking to my patients about this decision as there is not wrong answer – every women must make their own decision regarding implant choice and my job is to provide enough information for you to do that comfortably.

Breast augmentation and breast lift surgery, especially after pregnancy, can lead to renewed self-confidence and self-esteem by correcting unwanted changes which occur from childbearing and breastfeeding.