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Sagging breasts are a cause for concern for many women at different stages of their lives. As this condition is associated with the shape and positioning of the breasts, it can have direct effects on physical and psychological well-being.
The good news is that there is a solution. With the use of appropriate techniques, it is possible to reposition the breasts to have a more harmonious appearance and improve self-esteem.
Want to find out how to fix sagging breasts ? Keep reading and discover the options!
What are sagging breasts?
Breast ptosis , as sagging breasts are also known, is a condition characterized by breasts that sag in relation to the characteristics of the woman’s body.
To be classified in this way, it is necessary to evaluate the projection of the breasts on the cleavage and the position of the nipples in relation to the natural fold of the breast — called the inframammary fold. The lower the position, the greater the degree of breast ptosis.
This condition can occur for a number of reasons throughout life. Here are the main ones:
- Age: with aging, it is common for there to be a loss in the skin and muscles’ ability to support themselves, causing the breasts to sag;
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the action of hormones and changes in breast volume before and after childbirth can cause excess skin and sagging, contributing to the appearance of sagging breasts;
- Weight change: gaining and losing weight in a short period of time can stretch breast tissue, generate excess skin and reduce tissue elasticity, causing the breasts to lose firmness;
- Genetics: the inheritance of genes helps determine breast size, skin elasticity, ligament structure and other characteristics, which can increase the predisposition to breast ptosis.
Read also: Types of breasts: find out which one is yours and its characteristics
What are the problems caused by sagging breasts?
Sagging breasts have physical , emotional and psychological effects on women. Physically, breast ptosis can cause postural and mobility problems due to the additional weight on the shoulder area.
Therefore, many women with sagging breasts suffer from chronic discomfort , as well as muscle tension and even pain. Furthermore, the skin below the breasts can present allergies and other dermatological problems, due to constant friction with clothing and the accumulation of sweat.
From an emotional and psychological point of view, the effects are related to dissatisfaction with the appearance of the breasts and damage to self-confidence. Overall, this causes self-image problems, affecting psychological well-being.
Depending on the case, sagging breasts can be a factor in worsening depression , anxiety and social isolation . Therefore, seeking a solution to this issue is not just for aesthetic reasons.
How to avoid sagging breasts?
It is not possible to completely prevent breast ptosis, as some factors cannot be controlled. Loss of skin elasticity with age and genetics are some examples.
However, it is possible to take some measures to reduce the risk of losing breast firmness . Here are some tips:
Wear bras with adequate support
Consistently wearing bras with the right level of support is essential to prevent sagging breasts. This can partially reduce the effects of gravity and provide more support to the breast tissue .
It is essential that the bra is suitable for the structure of the body and breasts, preferably with wide straps . Wearing the underwear for more hours a day contributes to prolonged support.
Avoid large weight fluctuations
Since gaining and losing weight in a short period of time can affect the structures of the breast tissue , it is best to maintain a healthy weight and avoid large fluctuations.
To achieve this, it is recommended to have a healthy and balanced diet , in addition to practicing physical activities regularly. This way, the volume of the breasts tends to be less affected.
Practice exercises for the chest region
In addition to being important for controlling weight, physical activity is also related to strengthening the muscles in the chest region . To achieve this, it is best to perform exercises focused on these muscle groups.
In addition to strength exercises, such as weight lifting, you can also do push-ups and exercises with elastic bands. These activities help tone your muscles and increase the support of your breast tissue .
Use sunscreen
The incidence of ultraviolet (UV) rays from unprotected sun exposure can destroy cells and compromise tissue stability . Therefore, it is essential to use sunscreen on a daily basis.
The product should be applied to the entire area exposed to solar radiation , even on cloudy days. This helps prevent premature skin aging.
Read also: After all, what is mammoplasty?
Mastopexy to resolve sagging breasts
Plastic surgery is the most effective way to solve sagging breasts, as it is the only way to correct problems such as excess skin in the area . To achieve the effect of lifting the breasts, the recommended surgery is mastopexy .
This surgical procedure is also known as a breast lift and its main objective is to lift and reshape sagging breasts.
Mastopexy techniques
Mastopexy can be performed in two ways: with or without silicone implants .
In mastopexy without silicone implants , the surgeon only removes excess skin and, if necessary, excess tissue composed of fat and mammary glands. This reduces the volume of the breasts.
Mastopexy with silicone implants aims to restore lost volume. In this case, the removal of skin, fat and glands takes into account the positioning of the implant to give shape to the breasts.
Furthermore, mastopexy scars can be of different types. The periareolar scar is located around the areolas and is present in all cases. This is because this is how the surgeon can reposition the breasts.
The I-shaped scar provides a straight extension to the mammary fold, while the L-shaped scar provides an extension to one side.
The inverted T or anchor scar is quite popular because it allows for greater breast lift. It is extended on both sides and tends to be larger, but can be discreet when well positioned.
Indications for surgery
Mastopexy is a surgery that is usually suitable for women who have sagging breasts — especially in cases of moderate or severe sagging .
However, this is not the only factor. The client must also be in good health , undergo adequate pre-operative care and have realistic expectations.
Other factors are also taken into account, such as whether or not you intend to get pregnant in the future. In general, for those who want to get pregnant soon and, especially, breastfeed, this technique may not be recommended.
Step by step procedure
The first step in mastopexy is a consultation with an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon. By analyzing the client’s body structure, concerns and expectations, it is possible to choose the best technique and plan the surgery.
Next, pre-operative care must be carried out . In addition to undergoing tests, it is necessary to stop taking certain medications and stop smoking.
The procedure begins with the application of anesthesia . It can be general, epidural or local with seduction. Then, incisions are made according to the technique defined in the surgical plan.
The next step involves removing excess skin , fat and mammary glands , if necessary. The goal is to achieve harmony between breast volume and body structure, lifting the breasts and giving them a natural shape.
If the procedure involves silicone implants , they are positioned according to the plan. Finally, the breast tissue is repositioned and the incisions are closed.
Benefits of mastopexy
Having a mastopexy performed by a good professional can bring several benefits to the client. The improvement in the appearance, shape and firmness of the breasts is one of the main effects, but it is not the only one.
Check out other advantages associated with this surgical procedure:
Restoring confidence and self-esteem
From an emotional and psychological point of view, mastopexy has a significant impact by helping the client regain confidence and self-esteem . This has to do, firstly, with improving the perception of one’s own image.
As the breasts become more symmetrical, firm and lifted, satisfaction with one’s appearance increases , leading to a better quality of life and well-being.
Improved posture and physical comfort
Mastopexy is also beneficial in helping to correct physical problems. It is common for there to be an improvement in posture , as excess skin and other tissues are removed.
This also reduces the weight exerted on the shoulders, back and neck, reducing the occurrence of pain . Furthermore, it is possible to avoid dermatological problems caused by excessive friction, further relieving discomfort.
Read also : What are the types of silicone surgery?
Post-operative recovery and care
Recovery from mastopexy depends on factors such as the technique chosen, the client’s body’s response and post-operative care.
Swelling and even some bruising are expected during this period, but these usually go away over time. Some pain and discomfort may also occur, but these are usually managed with medication prescribed by a doctor.
Regarding post-operative care , the main ones are:
- Perform proper and frequent cleaning of incisions;
- Wear the surgical bra for the time indicated by the doctor;
- Maintain an adequate diet that promotes healing ;
- Rest for the recommended period;
- Do not lift weights or perform heavy activities until cleared by your doctor;
- Avoid sun exposure;
- Carry out follow-up consultations.
Solve the problem of sagging breasts with mastopexy
Dealing with breast ptosis can cause physical, psychological and emotional discomfort. Therefore, performing a mastopexy to reverse sagging breasts is usually an efficient solution with good results.
To perform the procedure safely, count on Dr. Mário Farinazzo . In addition to being a member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery (SBCP), he has over 10 years of experience in the field.