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During a woman’s lifetime, there will be multiple life events which will effect profound changes in her breasts. These changes are a result of pregnancy, nursing, hormonal fluctuations, and the body constantly maturing. Although many of these changes are not health concerns, aesthetics may need to be addressed to ensure a woman maintains the appearance she desires and her self-confidence. This article will give you information about how life can affect the appearance of a woman’s breasts.

Changes with Age

Women can expect normal changes throughout the different stages of her life. It begins with breast development from birth to adulthood.

When a girl is born, the first stages of the breast milk duct system and the nipple have formed. When puberty arrives, the ovaries begin to generate estrogen, and fat within the breasts’ connective tissue will accumulate. This event will cause the breast to become larger and change in appearance. The nipples will raise, and a darker areola pigment will be visible. There will also be some swelling of the breast itself. By the time a woman reaches adulthood, her breasts will develop completely.

Once a woman begins to ovulate her breast will form secretory glands on the milk ducts. After further maturing, these glands will continue to develop. During the menstrual cycle, the breasts will become tender and swell because of temporary fluid retention.

Pregnancy

With pregnancy comes an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels causing several changes to the breasts designed to prepare the breast for breastfeeding. The duct system enlarges by the formation of lobules, and the areola becomes darker than before. The breasts may also become more tender and greater in size. After the second trimester, the breasts can produce milk.\

Childbearing

Once your child is weaned from breast milk, the mother’s breasts may or may not return to pre-pregnancy shape and size. Some women’s breasts shrink while others stay large. During nursing, the milk flow may stretch the breast tissue and skin leaving some women with a stretched out or empty breast appearance. This aesthetic concern happens when the milk ducts return to normal size. Although not a medical concern, many women lose self-confidence in their appearance and look to retain their youthful breast contours.

Genetics

Unfortunately, some women are born with breasts which are abnormal or do not fit their body type. Asymmetry or breasts too small do not become apparent until puberty or adulthood. Fortunately, these cosmetic issues are correctable with the help of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Breast augmentation can help a woman attain breasts which are symmetric and proportionate to her body type.

Solutions

Just as women have access to correcting genetic breast issues with breast augmentation, they also can revive their breasts’ appearance caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging. Whether employing the benefits of a breast lift or breast augmentation, board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Christopher Livingston helps many women in Houston and Southeast Texas regain confidence with breast they can be proud to display.

For more information on how you can regain the breasts you once had or breasts you’ve always wanted, contact Dr. Livingston today.

Request a consultation today.