Alternatives to Surgery for Reducing Breast Size

Q: Are there any alternatives to surgery for women seeking breast reductions? Can a woman reduce her breast size by one or at least a half cup size through any changes in diet or intensive exercise? Are there any safe and effective medications that do this?

Thanks for your insight.

--M.I.

Dr. Donnica: Thank you for your question. In general, women who are overweight (especially women who are significantly overweight) may be able to reduce their bust size through a general weight loss program. Depending upon how overweight they are, they could possibly lose as much as a half cup or full cup size. There are no medicines or exercises that I am aware of that will assist with breast reduction other than those which assist with general weight loss.

Weight training exercises, however, can build up the pectoral muscles, which can alter the appearance of the bust, while having no impact at all on breast size per se. A good support bra or "breast minimizer bra" can also alter the bust's appearance significantly, again, while having no impact on the actual breast size.

Breast reduction surgery has benefited many women whose breasts are so large that they cause back pain and other physical discomfort, in addition to cosmetically related issues. I recommend that any woman considering this type of surgery consult at least two reputable plastic surgeons for their input and also consider any future plans for childbirth and breast feeding, which can alter breast size significantly (in an unpredictable manner).

Best regards,
Donnica Moore, MD
President, DrDonnica.com

Created: 7/27/2003  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.