Are Bras to Blame for Ptosis?
Are Bras to Blame for Ptosis?
Whether due to pregnancy, weight loss, or the natural aging process, breast sagging is a common cosmetic concern for many women. At some point in their lives, the majority of women have also heard myths of the possible link between ptosis, or sagging, of the breasts, and wearing supportive bras. But the fact of the matter is that ptosis is a naturally-occurring process that can’t be affected by what you wear.
Here are two of the most common myths about bra usage and breast sagging, as well as what available methods are proven to reverse ptosis.
Myth #1: Wearing a Bra Can Cause Breasts to Sag
This popular myth was once backed by research claiming that wearing a bra might cause your breasts to sag. Supposedly, the support of the garment could prevent your body’s own supportive muscle tissue from forming. But the problem with this reasoning is that your breasts don’t actually contain muscle tissue (Johns Hopkins Medicine).
Instead, they’re comprised of skin, fat, and ligaments. The pectoralis muscles lie behind breast tissue and don’t function as support for the breasts themselves. Thus, the inevitable effects of gravity will take place, whether or not you’ve been wearing a bra for years or have gone without.
Myth #2: Sleeping in a Bra Makes Breasts Firmer
While lots of women may hope that this myth is true, it, too, has been busted. There’s no scientific evidence that wearing supportive garments has any lasting effects on breast ptosis, whether positive or negative. Although bras designed to create a plumper, more lifted look work superficially, they simply can’t permanently change the structure of your breasts. When it comes down to it, whether or not you sleep in a bra is much more of a personal preference than a method of keeping your breasts looking youthful and firm.
How to Correct Ptosis
So if bras aren’t the answer to breast sagging, how can you address this concern? The only proven method of counteracting the natural effects of gravity and aging is with a breast lift. Through this procedure, a skilled plastic surgeon is able to reposition the breasts higher on the chest wall, restoring the desired firm, “perky” appearance (The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery).
Breast lifts are very common procedures, especially following pregnancy and breastfeeding, or simply when a woman begins to notice the first signs of aging. Some women choose to combine a breast lift with a breast augmentation, which allows for the same repositioning as with the breast lift, but with an added boost of volume. Keep in mind that a breast lift alone won’t change the size of your breasts, so depending on your goals, a single or combined procedure may best suit your needs.
Taking the Next Step
If breast ptosis is keeping you from looking and feeling the best version of yourself, consulting a skilled plastic surgeon who has experience performing breast lifts can be a good place to start. Whether you simply desire a lifted, more youthful look, or you’d like to add some volume to your breasts as well, discussing your goals with a professional can be an integral part of choosing the right procedure for you.
At Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, our board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil would be happy to meet with you to provide a detailed assessment of your cosmetic needs, and design an individualized surgical plan to meet your goals for your final results. His years of experience performing breast lift procedures, as well as his formal training, make Dr. Heil one of the top Pittsburgh plastic surgeons.
If you’d like more information about your breast lift options, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil, please feel free to contact us at 724-264-3608. One of our friendly staff members will be happy to help you take the first step towards loving your new look.
