Is Exercise an Effective Way to Reduce Breast Size?

Question

I am a college student who desperately wants breast reduction surgery but can't afford it at this time. I also have no desire to spend an arm and a leg on a special fit bra that is so ugly my grandmother wouldn't wear it. Will exercise be effective? Something is better than nothing.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Exercise Not Usually effective for Breast ReductionDiet and exercise may result in weight loss with some reduction in breast size. Unfortunately if you do not have good elasticity of your skin or have dense breasts this may result in more drooping. If you do not loose weight, then your breasts will remain the same size. Breast Reduction surgery by a board certified plastic surgeon is required for most patients for the best result.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

AT your age, it is most likely tha the vast majority of the breast is glandular tissue rather than fat. However, remaining closer to your ideal body weight can minimize subsequent breast enlargement and is always a good idea.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, there is no way to "spot reduce" any part of the body with exercise, including breasts. Your genetically determined body fat distribution will lead to fat reduction in some areas more than others, regardless of the exercise regimen. There are some women who seem to lose weight more in the breasts when they are reducing overall body weight but it isn't under your control. Wish I had better news but I wouldn't want you to put a major effort into something that isn't going to help.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Unfortunately, based on the description of your current breast size, it is unlikely that you will have a significant benefit with exercise in regards to your breast size and/or position. It is always best to achieve a long-term stable weight prior to undergoing surgery ( so a healthy diet and exercise program is always  encouraged).

	When the timing is right for you please make sure you seek consultation with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons.

	Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you need to lose weight, and your breasts are large and perhaps have a significant fatty component, then weight loss may indeed reduce the size of your breasts.

Is Exercise an Effective Way to Reduce Breast Size?

Answers (8)