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How to Minimize the Impact of an Unplanned Pregnancy on Your Breast Lift Results
Have you had a breast lift within the last few years and – SURPRISE – you are now pregnant, perhaps unplanned?
Though often performed after completing your family, life doesn’t always go as planned.
That’s for sure!
Fortunately, there are some ways that may help to reduce the negative impact that your pregnancy can have on your long term mastopexy results. This blog outlines what to expect and how to possibly minimize the effects of pregnancy on your rejuvenated breasts.
4 Min Read:
Table of Contents
- Understand How Pregnancy Can Affect Breast Lift Results
- Prioritize Support With Proper Bras
- Follow Healthy Weight Gain Guidelines
- Hydrate and Care for Your Skin
- Avoid Drastic Postpartum Weight Fluctuations
- Know That Revision Surgery Is Always an Option
- Communicate with Your Surgeon
- Considering a Breast Lift in Scottsdale, Phoenix or Nearby?
1. Understand How Pregnancy Can Affect Breast Lift Results
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the production of milk lead to an increase in breast volume and stretching of the skin and underlying tissues. After giving birth and finishing breastfeeding, many women experience:
- Loss of breast volume
- Loosened or stretched skin and breast tissue
- Sagging or changes in nipple position
These shifts typically will compromise the elevation and contour achieved with your earlier breast lift.
2. Prioritize Support With Proper Bras
One of the simplest and most effective things you can do during and after pregnancy is to wear a high-quality, supportive bra. This helps to reduce the traction effects on your skin and connective tissue from the effects of gravity that would otherwise lead to additional sagging. Look for maternity or nursing bras that offer a strong lift and full support that don’t dig into your skin.
3. Follow Healthy Weight Gain Guidelines
Your OB-GYN will provide a recommended weight gain range during pregnancy based on your health. Sticking to these guidelines can help reduce excess skin stretching and tissue strain. Significant and/or rapid weight gain increases the likelihood of more permanent changes to your breast shape after pregnancy.
4. Hydrate and Care for Your Skin
Maintaining skin elasticity can make a difference in how your breasts respond to the expansion and contraction of pregnancy. Drink plenty of water and apply a pregnancy-safe moisturizer to your breasts daily to help minimize stretch marks and support the skin’s integrity.
5. Avoid Drastic Postpartum Weight Fluctuations
Many women are eager to return to their pre-pregnancy shape, but extreme or rapid weight loss after childbirth can lead to additional sagging or volume loss in the breasts. Aim for a gradual, healthy return to your ideal weight in order to help your body (and breasts) recover with less strain.
6. Know That Revision Surgery Is Always an Option
If your breasts do significantly droop again after your pregnancy, you are not without options.
Fortunately.
Many women choose to undergo a secondary breast lift which can use the same incisions (scars) that they already have. This revision can even be combined with a breast augmentation in order to increase breast volume and to restore your breasts to a more youthful, attractive appearance.
7. Communicate with Your Surgeon
Whether you’re considering a breast lift or you’ve already had one, open communication with your plastic surgeon is essential. Let them know if there’s any chance of a future pregnancy or if you’re now pregnant. They can help set realistic expectations as well as guide you on timing and even the need for future revisions.
Considering a Breast Lift in Scottsdale, Phoenix or Nearby?
Life happens — and that includes unexpected pregnancies. While it’s true that pregnancy can influence breast lift results, there are plenty of proactive ways to maintain your outcomes and feel confident in your changing body.
If you’re planning for a breast lift or considering a revision after pregnancy, consult with Dr. Steven H. Turkeltaub, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. With over 35 years of experience and a commitment to natural-looking, personalized results, Dr. Turkeltaub helps women in Scottsdale, Phoenix and throughout Arizona feel empowered and informed in their cosmetic surgery journey.
Call (480) 451-3000 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation today.