Causes of Sagging Breasts

Many women, and even some teenage girls, are concerned about the appearance of their breasts. It is inevitable for adult breasts to sag over time, due to the effects of gravity and skin aging. However, understanding the causes of sagging breasts can sometimes help to prevent excessive drooping.

Smoking

Tobacco smoke contains free radicals that damage skin cells, causing them to lose elasticity. This can lead to more facial wrinkles and sagging breasts.

Pregnancy

After weaning, or directly after pregnancy if a woman does not breastfeed, the tissues inside the breast shrink and lose elasticity. Breastfeeding does not cause sagging breasts, but may delay the process.

Wearing a Bra

Despite common misconceptions, wearing a bra may cause--not prevent--sagging breasts. The ligaments that hold breasts up can become thinner and weaker if a bra is worn full-time.

Weight Loss

When a woman loses weight, her breasts maintain the same amount of skin, but some of the fatty tissue inside them is lost. This may result in an "empty" appearance.

Menopause

During menopause, the ducts and glands inside the breast diminish in size because they will no longer be needed for producing milk. This can cause breasts to appear saggy.