It’s no secret that the shape and size of the breasts can transform throughout the different stages of a person’s life. Changes in the breast contours may be subtle or emphasized by certain life events, such as pregnancy or major weight loss. In nearly all cases, women generally notice some degree of variation in the way their breasts look over time. There are several reasons why the appearance of the breasts can fluctuate throughout one’s twenties, thirties, forties, and beyond, including:
- Thinning of the skin and reduced elasticity: The skin typically becomes more slack as we age, causing it to stretch and loosen. Combined with the dwindling support of the internal suspensory ligaments, the breasts can begin to lose shape and droop — especially if a woman has previously had children.
- Less estrogen production after menopause: A lack of estrogen production after menopause means the mammary glands can shrink, making the breasts look smaller and less full.
- Weight fluctuation and pregnancy: In general, skin and tissue elasticity largely diminish with a fluctuating weight and/or pregnancy. As a result, the breasts usually lose volume, develop flatter contours, and take on some degree of ptosis (sagging).
- Tissue changes resulting from the natural aging process: It’s not uncommon for women to develop cysts or lumps in their breasts in the period after menopause. While these lumps are typically benign, it’s important to have any new or abnormal growths swiftly evaluated by a doctor to check for the presence of potentially cancerous cells.
Although unfavorable breast changes can be distressing, there are many solutions that can repair the breakdown of loose tissues and renew the shape and size of the breasts. At his Boston practice, board-certified plastic surgeon Geoffrey Leber, MD creates personalized treatment plans to make a patient’s desired breast contours a reality. He offers a number of highly effective options, including breast augmentation to enlarge volume and breast lift surgery to rejuvenate sagging breasts.
Contact our practice today to learn how our team can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, or to schedule a consultation.