There are many contributing factors that may cause breasts to sag, including weight loss. Other factors may include multiple pregnancies, genetics, breast feeding, age and gravity. In order to understand why breasts sag, it is important to understand the anatomy of the breasts and what happens when you lose weight.
Anatomy of the Breasts
Contrary to popular belief, breasts are not made out of muscle. The internal anatomy of the breasts is mostly comprised of glands, or lobules, and connective tissue. Fatty tissue tends to be found around the perimeter of the breasts. The glands make up the grand majority of the breasts. When a woman is pre-menstruating, the glands in the breasts may swell in response. When a woman is pregnant, the glands enlarge to produce milk. Once the reproductive years are over, the glands start to shrink and fat takes over.
Breasts and Weight
When a woman gains weight, the breasts may store more fat. The increasing amount of fat makes breasts heavier which then wears on the connective tissue. Over time, the connective tissue may lose its elasticity. When a woman loses weight, the breasts may lose their firm shape. As a result, gravity may affect the breasts, the connective tissue may wear down and the breasts may start to droop.
Solutions
Though it is impossible to fight gravity, there are some solutions to help improve the appearance of saggy breasts. It is important to wear a bra that fits well and provides adequate support. Take in consideration that the U.S. average breast size is now a 36C. Not wearing the correct-sized bra will not only cause unnecessary pain and strain, it may lead to sagging breasts. Consider strengthening your pectoral muscles as well. Located beneath the chest wall, the pectorals may help improve the appearance of saggy breasts though it will not suddenly make breasts perky again.
Pills, Creams and Surgery
Plenty of products claim to enhance, tone or stop the sagging process. Though lotions, pills and creams may help the breasts feel firmer, the actuality is that it does nothing to tighten or rebuild the stretched connective tissue. Some may consider a breast lift or plastic surgery to enhance saggy breasts. Though a firmer chest is the immediate outcome of such a drastic measure, chances are good that the connective tissue will stretch, causing the newly enhanced breasts to sag yet again.
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