Women often worry weight loss will decrease the size of their breasts. Whether you already have a small bust or consider your breasts your greatest physical asset, you shouldn't let this concern prevent you from achieving a healthy weight. Slimming down usually results in a relatively small breast reduction.
Identification
Contrary to popular belief, a woman's breasts aren't primarily composed of fatty tissues, according to Breast Options. Lobules, or glands that produce milk, make up the greatest portion of the female breast. Weight isn't the only factor that can change your bust; age, genetics, breast tissue volume, pregnancies, lactation, menopause and hormones also affect your breast size, according to AyurvedicCure.com.
Effects
When you slim down, you'll lose the largest amount of fatty tissue from your thighs, hips and buttocks, according to Breast Options. Since 1 lb. of body weight is equivalent to 3,500 calories, you must create a deficit of 500 to 1,000 calories a day to lose 1 to 2 lbs. a week. Exercise for about 60 to 90 minutes a day most days of the week. Design a diet that includes a variety of foods from all the major food groups--this will help you stick with your plan, recommends MayoClinic.com. For example, include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, beans, dairy products and a small amount of oil.
Benefits
Even a small amount of weight loss can improve your blood pressure and cholesterol while decreasing your risk of chronic diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. Losing a significant amount of weight will enhance your energy, increase your mobility and boost your self-confidence, according to the CDC.
Prevention/Solution
If you're self-conscious about your smaller breasts after losing weight, you can wear padded bras for a quick, inexpensive fix. Strengthening your pectoral muscles also may make your breasts appear larger. Target your chest with such exercises as push-ups. Plastic surgery, or breast augmentation, provides a more expensive solution. You can choose from saline or silicone implants, depending on your preference. Implants, which can leak, may not last a lifetime, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Considerations
If you choose breast augmentation after losing weight, you risk such complications as infections, blood clots, bleeding, pain and poor healing of the insertion site, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Since weight loss can change the appearance your breasts, you should wait until you reach your goal weight before getting implants. Talk with your doctor, dietitian or personal trainer if you need help with your diet or exercise plan.
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