Do bras cause sagging in breasts?

Hi mamayohn,
Thank you for the question. Wearing of bras do not cause breasts to sag. There are various factors, however, that cause the breasts to sag and droop including but not limited to genetics, breast size, skin elasticity, and weight loss.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you very much for your question, as it is
an interesting one. Bras do not cause the breasts to sag. Heavy breast tissue,
genetics, and the force of gravity cause breast tissue to sag and droop. As women
age, the skin will lose elasticity and the muscles
become lax, stretching and deflating the breasts. Although a bra can provide
support for the breasts, it cannot keep breasts from losing their shape over
time.

Thank you for your question
It is a common misconception that strengthening ones chest muscles will prevent breast ptosis. It is suggested to wear a bra to try to prevent/reduce breast ptosis.
Regards,

I'm surprised there is even a debate.  Fibrous structures that support the breast are called Cooper's ligaments and are not "muscles" and wouldn't become stronger with stress or applied force.  Supporting these ligaments with a bra will prevent them from stretching from gravitational force.  Wearing a bra when upright will prevent breast ptosis.

mamayohn.  Just the opposite. Brassieres support the breasts and the breast tissues and can actually prevent or delay sagging by preventing the ligaments and Skin from stretching out. It is not a guarantee, but going bra less, especially with larger breasts, certainly contributes to the sagging process and can speed it along. It is OK to go bra less occasionally, but not all the time. Be careful what you take as gospel from the Internet! Seek advice from a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. Good luck.