How Breasts Change During Pregnancy
Your body changes in amazing ways during pregnancy. Not only are you perfectly designed to nourish and grow your baby, but you’re also able to feed your infant all the nutrients he or she will need after birth. Your breasts play a huge role after delivery, but they go through several important changes on their way to becoming your baby’s number one food supply. From the days immediately following conception and for months afterward, your breasts will become one of your biggest assets — double entendre noted.
Breast Changes in Early Pregnancy
Experienced mothers may remember that tender breasts occur in the days following conception. Inside the breast, the blood that flows through the mammary artery increases in volume. Also, the cells that produce milk will begin to multiply. A tingling sensation, especially around the nipples, is very common. Some expecting moms find this sensation uncomfortable. You may also notice that your breasts become larger, similar to what you experience during the days before your period. You can minimize discomfort by wearing a supportive, padded bra without seams or lace covering the nipple. Visible veins, and sometimes nipple leaking, are more common — and temporary — changes.
Nipple Changes During Pregnancy
Take time to examine your nipples during pregnancy, and chances are you’ll find that they have become larger or more prominent. The skin surrounding the nipple is likely to darken from natural changes in pigmentation. Some believe that this process makes it easier for a newborn baby to find the nipple. As time passes, you may notice small bumps around your nipples. Known as Montgomery’s tubercles, these hypertrophic sebaceous glands release a uniquely scented oil that discourages bacteria and keeps skin smooth and elastic. These bumps often remain following pregnancy.
Plastic Surgery for Mommy Makeovers
Your breasts can grow as much as a full cup size during pregnancy, but after months of growing, stretching and feeding, many women find they feel dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts and abdomen once they stop producing milk. Stretch marks, sagging skin, the “mommy tummy” and extra weight that won’t seem to go away are just a few of the appearance issues welcoming you to motherhood. You don’t have to suffer forever with these unwanted changes, however. Whether you want plastic surgery to restore breast fullness, surgery for your mommy tummy — or a combination of procedures — there is a cosmetic solution.
How Long to Wait for Plastic Surgery After Pregnancy
Before you jump right into mommy makeover surgery after the birth of your baby, consider carefully the timing and your overall health and lifestyle. Many procedures, such as tummy tuck and liposuction, require several weeks of rest. You may be unable to lift your infant, for example, and unable to breastfeed. Imagine recovering from surgery and having to wake up in the middle of your first night home to feed a crying infant! Only when your lifestyle permits you the opportunity to rest and recuperate properly should you consider cosmetic surgery.
Also, not every candidate is suitable. Healthy individuals who are nonsmokers, have realistic expectations and maintain a stable weight are the best patients. Nevertheless, a mommy makeover can give you a new lease on your youth — and keep you looking as young as you feel.
Contact SPRSI for More Information
Dr. Nathan Brought of SPRSI serves patients in the Nashville and Franklin, Tennessee regions. For a mommy makeover consultation, contact Southern Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Institute at 615-791-9090.
