Factors That Can Effect Drooping Breasts

Do you ever look at your breasts and wonder, when did they get so droopy? You're not the only one. There are a number of factors that cause breasts to droop and sag over time.

A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal explored factors effecting breast appearance and aging in identical twins. The results determined that, outside of inherited characteristics, there are several environmental factors that significantly affect the appearance of a woman's breasts. The good news for women concerned about sagging breasts is that some environmental factors can actually be controlled.

Breasts Feeling Down? Here's Why ...

So, what exactly is it that causes breasts to sag, and how can it be prevented?

Breastfeeding often takes a lot of the blame for saggy breasts, but it certainly isn't the only culprit. In fact, research has found that breastfeeding itself does not increase sagging, but rather the expansion and contraction of the mammary glands during pregnancy. Women who have children will notice a change in the appearance of their breasts, whether they breastfeed or not.

In some cases, exercise can help restore some pre-baby perkiness to the breasts. When exercise alone is not enough, many women opt for a breast lift or breast augmentation to restore lost volume, say the Atlanta, GA plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 

Gravity is perhaps the most prominent environmental factor affecting droopy breasts. Unfortunately, gravity is uncontrollable. Genetically, size and tissue structure play a role in how much pull gravity has. But rest assured there are still ways to slow down the effects of nature.

Maintaining a healthy, stable weight is a very controllable factor in keeping breasts perky. Drastic and repeated weight gain and loss can permanently stretch the skin, causing a droopier chest over time. Additionally, breasts are made up primarily of fat and mammary glands with little support. Weight gain will result in heavier breasts that are harder for your body to support.

Weight gain ties into another factor: exercise. Proper exercise can keep breasts perky by improving circulation and strengthening the pectoral muscles for a natural lift. Although there is no muscle in the actual breasts, strong pecs can help fight gravity. Do use caution when exercising, particularly running. Too much bouncing can have an adverse effect, so always wear an appropriate sports bra with plenty of support.

Speaking of bras, making sure you wear a supportive bra that fits your body snugly but comfortable is a good way to fight gravity's pull on a daily basis. Some research has suggested that women who prefer going braless may have more sagging in their breasts over time. Get a bra fitting done to find out exactly what size you should be wearing.

Another factor to keep in mind: Cigarette smoking has a negative effect on just about everything, including the breasts. Similar to the way in which smoking leads to wrinkles on the delicate skin of the face and hands, it also causes deterioration of breast skin. Skin is kept firm and flexible because of a complex network of collagen fibers and elastin, which break down over time. Smoking will only accelerate this process.

These are some of the main environmental factors that can affect breast perkiness. However, there are also many genetic and hormonal factors women face as they age. Because very woman is different, it’s always recommended that you discuss your specific concerns and goals with your physician or surgeon.