There’s no getting around that breast size, shape and position are an important part of many women’s body image. A youthful, perky breast appearance can influence a woman’s self-confidence and help her feel great both in and out of clothes. A lot of focus is put on breast size, but breast shape and position can contribute significantly to the overall look of the breasts.
It turns out that many factors impact breast position. The most significant ones are your breast size/frame, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and age. Other factors that can increase breast sagging over time include cigarette smoking, loss of skin elasticity, activity/fitness level, and other genetic traits. While many of these factors are out of your control, there are still some things women can do to be proactive about breast position and appearance.
Work Out
The right type of exercises can actually help your breasts look firm and youthful. While it’s true that certain activities such as running can put added strain on the breasts that over time can contribute to breast drooping, upper body fitness activities that tone your pectoral muscles can help to maintain a lifted breast appearance.
Moisturize and Use SPF
The condition of the skin on and around your breasts can contribute to an overall youthful look, if you take care of it over time. We’re all familiar with wrinkled décolletage and age spots on the chest contributing to an older appearance. The delicate skin on the chest and breasts contains collagen and elastin that can break down as you age, not only making your skin look weathered, but also limiting the skin’s ability to help hold the breasts in place.
Watch Your Posture
Better posture can not only give your breasts an instant “lift,” it can also help day-to-day to support your breasts and decrease back pain. Pay particular attention while working at the computer or using your smartphone. It’s very easy to hunch or slouch over for long periods at a time, making your bra work harder to support your breasts and increasing strain as well.
Wear Supportive Bras
Speaking of bras, a well-fitting, highly supportive bra is a cornerstone of maintaining a youthful breast appearance. The bras you use for exercise should be tight, but not so tight that they chafe or cause irritation. Even the fun and flirty bras you choose should offer a good amount of support. Keep in mind that bra and cup sizes are not necessarily a universal measurement, so just because you are a 36C in one brand, you may need something different in another brand to achieve the right fit.
Consider a Breast Lift
While there is a lot you can do to help your breasts maintain a youthful position and shape, gravity will eventually win out and your breasts will eventually start to sag and droop. This is where a surgical breast lift can help to restore breast position. For many women thinking about a breast lift, having breast implants as well can be an excellent option both to improve breast shape and increase size.
If you are considering breast lift surgery, be sure to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for your procedure. In addition, review before and after photos of prior patients so you can see the quality of the surgeon’s work. In most cases, breast lift surgery involves making incisions on the breasts that will leave some degree of scarring. For this and other reasons, it is critical to choose a skilled plastic surgeon who can help you get the look you want.
Dr. Kobienia is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has provided the greater Minneapolis, MN, area with plastic and reconstructive surgery for over 20 years. Many have benefited not only from his expertise in plastic surgery, but also the genuine kindness and professionalism in his approach.
