Droopy Breasts Caused by More than Just Breastfeeding

Conventional wisdom has long held that pregnancy and breastfeeding are the biggest causes of drooping breasts. But are these the only causes of sagging breasts? No, according to a recent study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal. The study found that there actually many causes of drooping breasts, with breastfeeding being just one of them.

The study began with 161 pairs of identical female twins. (Where on earth did the researchers find all these twins in the first place? They were attending the Twins Days Festivals in Ohio!) After photographing the twins’ breasts, the researchers compared the photos, accounting for the different life experiences of the twins.

The researchers found six main causes of breast sagging in women. While five of the causes relate to lifestyle factors, the sixth – overly large breasts – is usually inherited. This condition can only be resolved through breast reduction surgery. Fortunately, the other five factors can be eliminated or mitigated.

Smoking and alcohol, which are bad for your overall health, can reduce the elasticity of your skin. By cutting down on your consumption of alcohol and tobacco, you can reduce the likelihood of sagging breasts – as well as many other health problems! Significant fluctuations in your weight can also change the size and shape of your breasts. This can usually be prevented with a moderate diet and exercise.

But what about pregnancy and breastfeeding? Most women would agree that sagging breasts are a small price to pay for the joy of a new baby. But you might be able to have it both ways. Simple things like multivitamins, moisturizers, and massages can help maintain your skin’s elasticity. As well, maintaining a positive diet and regular exercise will be good for you and your baby.

Once the breasts have been stretched, you still have some options to restore the curves of your youth. A breast lift is a surgical procedure that can lift and reshape your breasts. This restores their appearance so they look more pert and perky.