Pendulous breasts refer to breasts that are not self-supporting and are commonly seen in all breast shapes and sizes with age, following events like fast or heavy weightloss, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Here pendulous breasts are defined as those where the majority of the breast tissue lies below the inframammary fold (IMF) and where the nipple lies on or below the IMF. It is distinct from other breast shapes because it occurs to all breast tissue, to some extent, with time. The fitting problems it presents are largely similar and encompassed by full on bottom fitting advice and recommendations. This combined with the natural universal nature of the shape makes it a somewhat redundancy shape category that perpetuates body shaming of the aging process in women.
Does It Cause Health Concerns?
No physical health concerns result from pendulous breasts as it is a natural phenomenon resulting from gravitational and aging processes. [2] However, very large and/or heavy breasts can cause chronic back and neck pain and poor posture leading to other health complications. Mental health can be impacted through individuals' concern about possessing a pendulous breast shape and perception of social stigma. This is not confined to only pendulous breast shape and can be encountered with any breast variation. While this can be effectively dealt with directly through approved psychological treatment, some women do choose surgical options to address excessive concerns of breast shape variation. [2]
Non-Surgical Alteration
There has been some debate over whether wearing bras more often helps to combat aging and gravitational effects on breast tissue elevation. A properly fitted bra will help breasts appear less pendulous while one is wearing it; however, there isn’t a firm scientific consensus on whether wearing a bra will reduce the effect of aging and gravity on breast elevation. [5]
Wearing a bra regularly is more beneficial to health and appearance than not wearing one and wearing a supportive sports bra is essential when engaging in physical activity. [6] A bra at night is less often mentioned in relation to fighting gravity and aging processes on breast tissue and the best guide for employing this is individual preference and comfort. Women with heavier breasts often find that wearing a light unwired bra or knitted crop while sleeping or lounging provides sufficient support to reduce breast pain. [6]
surgical alteration
Surgery is an option if pendulous breasts are a major concern. [2]
Resources
- BREAST SHAPE GUIDE
- THE BEST BRA FOR PENDULOUS BREASTS
- BEFORE & AFTER BY DOCTOR ALEJANDRO NOGUEIRA
- EXTREMELY LARGE BREASTS BEFORE & AFTER
- WHAT ARE PENDULOUS BREASTS?
###Pendulous breasts are a normal shape variation and do not cause any inherent health concerns but are commonly referenced to body shame. It is worth noting that this aging process related shape is prized by some cultures as a sign of fertility and mature femininity. [2] Understanding more about your breast shape is empowering. Why? Because the more you know, the better chance you have of finding bras that make you look and feel your best. If you suspect you have pendulous breasts, take the previous tips into account on your next shopping trip, and you’ll be more likely to make some informed purchases. One last note: Pendulous boobs are not only totally normal but also common. And fortunately, there is no shortage of stunning bras for drooping breasts that can help you to embrace your shape while lending you a solid dose of confidence.
