As you get older, the size, shape, and skin texture of your breast area will often drastically change. While it’s a normal stage of life that many people have no issue with, not everyone feels comfortable with those changes.
Breast ptosis, the medical term for what is commonly known as “saggy breasts,” is a frequent concern for women who notice that their breasts no longer sit as high or look as full as they once did.
For those who would like a more lifted, toned appearance, however, there are both surgical and non-surgical options that may help. In his office in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dr. Bosbous takes the time to fully study your specific case and come up with a plan that works for you.
In this article, we’ll discuss some myths and truths about saggy breasts, some non-surgical options you can try, and how a breast lift may help address your concerns.
Why Does Breast Sagging Happen?
Your area around your breasts may sag because the skin and supportive tissue change over time. As you age, your skin naturally loses some of its elasticity, which can make the breasts sit lower than they used to.
Another cause for the change involves the Cooper’s ligaments, which help support the breast. These ligaments can stretch over time, especially for people with a larger breast size, those who have gone through drastic weight changes, pregnancy, menopause, and people with lower collagen levels.
There are also some common myths around breast sagging, including the idea that breastfeeding can worsen it. However, research has not found breastfeeding itself to be a cause of sagging breasts.
Not wearing a bra, or wearing the “wrong” bra, is also often blamed for sagging. In reality, these habits aren’t linked to sagging breasts.
What Are Some At-Home Remedies You Can Try?
Some home remedies may help improve the overall appearance of your chest area, especially when performed consistently.
One good place to start is strength training. Exercises that target the pectoral muscles, such as push-ups, chest presses, chest flys, and wall presses, will not change the breast tissue itself. However, they can strengthen the muscles underneath the breasts, which may create a firmer and slightly more lifted look.
Posture can also make a difference. When you slouch, the breasts may appear lower than they actually are. Try to remember to keep your shoulders relaxed, your back straight, and your core engaged to make your breasts appear more lifted. A good posture also helps with back pain, spine alignment, and muscle fatigue.
Additionally, taking care of the skin on your chest may help with texture and firmness. While this won’t typically physically lift the breasts, it supports healthier-looking skin overall.
Finally, you could try wearing a well-fitting bra, which can offer immediate support and help clothing sit better on your body. It’s not a solution for sagging breasts, but it can greatly help with your comfort.
How Does a Breast Lift Help?
If at-home remedies aren’t giving you the results you want, a breast lift may be worth considering. Unlike creams, exercises, or supportive bras, a breast lift changes the position and shape of the breasts.
During the procedure, a surgeon removes excess skin and breast tissue, sometimes also changing the size and positioning of the areola, to create a youthful, perky look.
While the procedure is sometimes combined with breast implants, the goal of a breast lift alone isn’t more volume; it’s to achieve a firmer, more lifted shape.
The exact approach depends on each patient’s body, age, skin elasticity, breast size, and what kind of result they’re looking to achieve. A surgeon will likely recommend whatever works best for you individually.
Final Thoughts
Sagging breasts are normal, and they are not something you need to “fix” unless they bother you. Some people may benefit simply by doing a few exercises and wearing better garments.
If you’re someone who wants a more drastic change, however, a breast lift may be something worth considering.
If you’ve been thinking about what a breast lift could do for your body, you don’t need to try to figure it out by yourself. Booking a consultation with Dr. Bosbous in Milwaukee, Wisconsin can help you understand what is possible, what makes sense for your body, and whether a breast lift is the right next step for you.