Anyone capable of making basic observations about the human body knows that saggy breasts are a common phenomenon. We have all probably seen sagging breasts, whether such examples include friends, family, or figures in the media. While most people can accurately recognize a pair of sagging breasts, few know the various causes of the phenomenon or that it can be fixed. For women seeking to correct this issue, Metairie Plastic Surgeons can help. The first step is understanding what causes the issue, however.
Gravity
The fact that gravitational forces over the years have a cumulative effect on the elasticity of breasts is so seemingly obvious that it is often overlooked. While gravity affects sagging breasts in 20s for all women, the effect is particularly more pronounced for women with larger and heavier breasts.
Smoking
Does smoking cause sagging breasts? a common cause of sagging breasts is chronic smoking. The mechanism by which this occurs pertains to the ways in which the carcinogens interact with elastin. Chronic exposure to carcinogens from smoking can cause the deterioration of elastin fibers, which are the constitutive units of skin elasticity.
Aging
Perhaps the most prevalent cause of sagging breasts results from the natural aging process. Breasts, which are made of fat, milk ducts, and glands, are supported by a tissue structure known as the ‘Cooper ligament.’ As women get older, this connective ligament structure stretches, causing the deterioration of breast elasticity.
Lack of Support
While the ligament tissue that keeps breasts from sagging naturally stretches over time, one contributing factor under which women can exercise control pertains to breast-supporting clothing garments. For instance, engaging in physical activity without wearing a sports bra will stretch these ligaments at a much faster rate over time than would otherwise occur if a sports bra was worn. However, the need for breast support extends beyond mere physical activity. To slow the rate at which breast ligaments stretch, optimal protection requires wearing some form of breast support throughout the day, even during sedentary activities.
Weight Gain
Another factor that contributes to breast sagging is weight gain. A relatively more preventable cause compared to others, weight gain causes breast sagging by introducing greater quantities of fat throughout the body. Moreover, weight gain also contributes to breast sagging by increasing the impact of gravitational factors over time.
If you wish to correct your sagging breasts in the New Orleans area, make an appointment at Metairie Plastic Surgeons in Metairie. Contact our office today to book a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
