What is Breast Sagging?
Breast sagging is a term that refers to the sagging or falling of breast tissue. It can occur for many reasons such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, gravity and genetic factors. Breast tissue is supported by the fat, connective tissue and elasticity of the skin it contains. If these support elements weaken or decrease in elasticity, breast sagging may occur.
Breast sagging can be manifested by the downward shift of the breast tissue from normal, the nipples being directed downward, and the loosening of the breast skin. This can create a feeling of physical discomfort as well as aesthetic concerns. Breast sagging is a common concern among women.
How to Prevent Breast Sagging?
It is not possible to completely prevent breast sagging. But the following measures can reduce or delay the risk of breast sagging:
- Use a good bra: Using a bra that is the right size and provides support supports the breast tissue and can reduce sagging. It is important to choose a supportive sports bra, especially when doing sports or physical activities.
- Weight control: Weight changes can contribute to breast sagging. Keeping weight under control and avoiding sudden weight changes can help maintain the elasticity of the breast tissue.
- Regular exercise: Doing exercises that strengthen the chest muscles and support the breast tissue can prevent breast sagging. Exercises that specifically target the chest, shoulder and back muscles can be beneficial. Example exercises include push-ups, bench press, dumbbell press, and backstroke.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can reduce skin elasticity and cause sagging breast skin. It is important to use sunscreen and limit sun exposure.
- Do not smoke: Smoking reduces skin elasticity and can cause sagging. Avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of breast sagging.
- Use supportive clothing during pregnancy and breastfeeding: During pregnancy and breastfeeding, breast tissue may change and the risk of sagging may increase. Using supportive bras or nursing bras during these periods can provide additional support to the breast tissue.
Breast sagging is a condition that can occur naturally with the aging process. Precautions can delay or reduce the effect of breast sagging, but it may not be possible to prevent it completely. If breast sagging becomes an important problem for you, you can consult with a plastic surgeon and consider options such as breast lift surgery.
What are the health risks of breast sagging?
Although breast sagging is generally seen as an aesthetic concern, it can also cause some health problems in some cases. Here are the potential health problems of breast sagging:
- Back and neck pain: People with sagging breasts may need to work harder on the chest muscles and shoulders to carry the weight. This can lead to back and neck pain.
- Skin infections: Sagging breast skin can form skin folds under the breast. Sweating and friction can increase between these folds. This can cause skin irritations and risk of infection.
- Posture problems: Breast sagging can cause deterioration of posture and increase pressure on the spine. This can lead to posture problems in the back, neck and shoulders.
- Self-confidence and psychological effects: Breast sagging can cause psychological effects such as lack of self-confidence, shyness and negative body image in some people.
- Intertrigo: When skin folds occur under the breast, a humid and warm environment may occur. This can lead to skin irritation and infections called intertrigo.
- Difficulty in screening for breast cancer: Breast sagging can cause breast tissue to spread and become widespread. This can create difficulties in breast cancer screening. In people with sagging breasts, the results of mammography and other imaging tests may be more difficult to interpret.
The health problems of breast sagging may differ from person to person. It may not be the same for everyone. However, whenever there is any problem affecting your health and quality of life, it is important to consult a doctor or plastic surgeon.