Large breasts are often desired by both women and men; however, a woman may be hesitant about inserting silicone or saline implants into her breasts. A variety of noninvasive procedures are available to increase a breast size. Alternative methods are less expensive than surgical options, and such noninvasive methods eliminate the risks that can be associated with surgery.
Brava System
The BRAVA system is a bra-like device that functions as an external tissue expander. The device was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001. Tissue expansion has been medically preformed for reconstructive surgery and limb lengthening for 30 years; the BRAVA device is the first to use the technique to increase breast size, according to the company website, Brava.com. The BRAVA bra must be worn for 10 hours or more a day. The gentle kneading and pulling technique increases breast stimulation and reproduction, according to the website. Once the desired breast size is reached, the device must be worn for the same amount of time it took to achieve results. For example, if a woman is satisfied with breast size at 7 weeks, an additional 7 weeks of wear is required to maintain breast size. Elle Magazine reported in its March 2005 issue the results of the Brava system, according to a study conducted by Dr. Thomas Baker, were permanent. A 2007 study in "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery," the journal of American Society of Plastic Surgeons, stated that long-term breast enlargement is possible using the BRAVA system. The study noted that women using the system must be informed about the time and lifestyle commitment required to achieve positive results.
Specialty Bras and Adhesives
A variety of padded and breast forms are available from specialty shops. Bras may contain water or gel filled packs for natural form and movement. Foam padding in some bras provides both lift and the look of larger breasts. Some manufacturers of bras suggest one to two cup sizes can be achieved by wearing bust enhancing bras.
Silicone adhesives breast forms gently attach to the skin and are strapless and backless. Additional adhesive is placed onto the skin for firmer placement. The adhesives generally come in a variety of colors and sizes. Placing the breast forms further apart or closer together can decrease and increase breast size.
Saw Palmetto
The folk remedy of using saw palmetto, serenoa repens, to increase breast size dates back to the pre-Mayan civilization; it was commonly used to treat breast disorders in women. However, no scientific studies have connected breast enlargement and saw palmetto. Dr. James Duke, author of "Dr. Duke's Essential Herbs" recommends a daily dose between 150 and 1,200 mg. per day. He suggests consuming a supplement containing at least 90 percent fatty acids and sterols; the higher the concentration of sterols, the lower the dose of saw palmetto. Women considering taking saw palmetto should understand that the herb may interfere with birth control pills. Breast-feeding women should not take saw palmetto, according to Ohio State University.
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