Botox and Breastfeeding – Is It Safe?

Understanding Botox and Breastfeeding Safety

After pregnancy and birth, it’s natural to want to feel refreshed and regain some confidence, but safety always comes first. One common question new mothers ask is whether Botox treatment is safe during breastfeeding.

Botox® is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments worldwide. It works by relaxing targeted muscles to soften lines such as frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet. Many women choose Botox because it can:

• Smooth and refresh tired-looking skin
• Restore a more youthful, rested appearance
• Boost confidence without changing natural expressions
• Offer results that last around 3–4 months with minimal downtime

Many of my patients at Dr Mohan’s Cosmetic Skin Clinic in Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Kingston, Surbiton, Richmond, and across South West London ask this exact question when considering treatment after having a baby. For new mothers, it’s easy to see the appeal — but the big question is whether it’s safe during breastfeeding.

In this article, I’ll answer the most common questions about Botox and breastfeeding — based on medical knowledge and clinical best practice.

Can You Have Botox While Breastfeeding?

Currently, Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. While Botox is considered safe when used correctly in adults, there is not enough research to confirm whether tiny amounts could pass into breast milk and affect a baby.

Key point: Until more evidence is available, most clinics — including mine — advise waiting until you have finished breastfeeding before having Botox.

Does Botulinum Toxin Pass Through Breast Milk?

Studies on this specific question are very limited. Botox works by binding to nerves at the injection site and does not normally circulate widely in the bloodstream. However, because safety for infants hasn’t been proven, the medical consensus is to avoid the risk.

In other words: Even though the chance may be very low, we don’t have enough evidence to guarantee that Botox is 100% safe for breastfeeding mothers.

Botox and breastfeeding safety advice – Dr Mohan Clinic SW London

How Long Should I Wait to Breastfeed After Botox?

Because Botox is not recommended during breastfeeding, there is no safe waiting period. Some patients ask if they can “pump and dump” (express and discard milk for a few hours), but this is not advised — Botox may remain active longer than that.

Recommendation: Delay treatment until you are no longer breastfeeding.

How Soon After Giving Birth Can I Get Botox?

If you are not breastfeeding, you can usually have Botox once you’ve recovered from birth and your body feels ready. For most mothers, this may be from 6–8 weeks postpartum, but it is always best to check with your doctor.

If you’re currently breastfeeding but planning future aesthetic treatments, it is safest to wait until you have fully weaned your baby. You may find it helpful to explore the full range of Botox treatments I offer in Wimbledon for when the time is right.

Is It Safe to Get Botox While Breastfeeding?

To summarise:

• There is no strong evidence proving Botox is safe during breastfeeding.
• Leading medical bodies, including the manufacturers of Botox, advise against it.
• The safest choice is to wait until breastfeeding is complete.

While it can be tempting to start treatments again soon after birth, it’s worth remembering that your baby’s wellbeing comes first. Waiting ensures you don’t take unnecessary risks and gives you peace of mind. For general safety, see the NHS’s official advice on choosing a qualified practitioner.

Similar to breastfeeding safety, understanding sauna and heat exposure after Botox helps ensure the best and safest results.

Once you’re no longer breastfeeding, you may find it helpful to understand how long Botox typically take to work and lasts before planning your treatment schedule.

Can Botox Affect My Breast Milk or Baby?

We don’t know for certain — which is exactly why doctors take the cautious approach. Botox is designed to stay local at the injection site, but trace amounts could, in theory, travel through the body. Because there isn’t enough evidence to prove otherwise, most clinics recommend avoiding it during breastfeeding.

Your baby’s health always comes first. The reassuring news is that Botox is not permanent, and once you stop breastfeeding, it is completely safe to start again without long-term concerns.

For more guidance on safe treatment habits, you can also read my article on what to avoid before and after Botox, including alcohol after Botox and heat exposure.

When Should I Resume Botox Treatments?

Once you have finished breastfeeding, you can safely return to your normal treatment schedule. Many of my patients in Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Kingston, Surbiton, Putney, and across South West London book their first botox appointment after they’ve weaned their child and feel ready to focus on themselves again.

This can be a positive milestone — a chance to restore confidence and feel refreshed after the intense early months of motherhood. Botox can be part of that self-care, helping you look as energised as you feel.

If you’re planning to return to the gym or yoga, you may also find it useful to read my article on exercise after Botox and how long to wait.

Looking ahead, you may also find Profhilo vs Profhilo Structura useful when planning treatments post-breastfeeding.

Mother with baby – Botox and breastfeeding safety advice from Dr Mohan Clinic Wimbledon

Final Thoughts

It’s completely understandable to want to feel like yourself again after pregnancy. Botox can be a fantastic way to refresh your appearance, smooth fine lines, and restore confidence — but when you are breastfeeding, safety must always come first.

The good news is that Botox is not permanent, and once you’ve finished breastfeeding, you can return to treatment without any long-term concerns. Many mothers see this as a positive step in their self-care journey, giving themselves a little time and attention after focusing so much on their baby.

When you’re ready, you can also explore Botox prices in Wimbledon to help plan your treatment journey.

If you’re unsure about timing, our guide on when to start Botox may help. You might also consider Polynucleotides treatment after breastfeeding to support skin quality.

📍 If you’re based in Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Kingston, Surbiton, Putney, or anywhere in South West London and would like advice on the best time to restart Botox, I’d be happy to arrange a friendly consultation. Together, we can plan the right moment to begin so you feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Book your free consultation here →
Or call me directly: 07702 389 636

Warm regards,

Dr Suresh Mohan