All bodies are beautiful, and there's nothing wrong with having smaller or larger breasts. With that being said, if you feel self-conscious about having small breasts, there’s no need to worry. Whether you’re looking for a temporary solution or a permanent surgical fix, there are a number of ways you can increase your breast size! To be sure you stay healthy, talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise or diet regimen. We also spoke with board-certified plastic surgeon Daniel Barrett, MD, for advice on getting a breast augmentation.
Steps
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Do push-ups . You may think of push-ups as an arm exercise, but they also hone in your pectorals, the muscles in your chest. Strengthening these muscles can help your breasts appear more perky and lifted. [1] X Trustworthy Source Go Ask Alice Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University Go to source As a bonus, your arms will get trim and muscular, too. Do 3 sets of 15 push-ups at least every other day to start. As your arms and pecs get stronger, increase the number of push-ups per set.
- Lie stomach down on the floor with your arms bent at your sides and your palms flat against the floor.
- Push up with your arms to raise your torso, keeping your knees straight and your toes on the floor. Continue pushing up until your arms are straight. If you want, keep your knees on the floor to make the push-ups less difficult at first.
- Lower yourself slowly back to the floor, then repeat. Focus on keeping tension in your core and glutes. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Do dumbbell chest presses. This is another great chest workout that can create bigger, stronger pec muscles. [3] X Research source Pick out dumbbells you can comfortably lift for 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps. Using 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) weights is a good place to start. Two or three times a week, do 3 sets of 10 dumbbell chest presses. As you get stronger, increase the number of reps per set.
- Lie back on an incline bench. Hold the weights at your sides.
- Lift the weights toward each other over your chest, straightening your arms, so that the two ends of the weights touch each other. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Slowly lower the weights down and repeat.
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Do isometric chest contractions. This type of exercise requires contracting your muscles without extending them, and it can help lift your breasts for a perkier chest. [5] X Research source For this exercise, all you need is a hand towel. Do it at least three times a week for best results.
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Hold the hand towel in front of your chest with both arms outstretched.
- Pull on both sides of the towel at the same time, contracting your chest muscles in short bursts.
- Keeping the towel taut, continue pulling it in a pulsing motion for three minutes.
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Ingest more estrogen. The main hormone responsible for the development of female breasts is estrogen, and your estrogen levels drop during perimenopause, the time right before menopause (usually mid- to late 40s). [6] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source After that, you can supplement your estrogen supply by eating a lot of soy products such as tofu, soybeans, miso soup, and miso paste. [7] X Research source Breast enhancement supplements usually contain phytoestrogens and herbs, such palmetto and wild yam. [8] X Research source
- However, there is no evidence that phytoestrogens can increase breast size. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Gain weight in general. If you're dieting and exercising to keep yourself thin, your regimen is affecting your breasts, too. Research shows that weight gain generally results in increased breast size. [10] X Research source Becoming pregnant is another way to increase breast size naturally. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
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Discover breast contouring. You probably use makeup to contour your cheekbones and chin, but you may not know that you can also use makeup to contour your cleavage. This inexpensive, albeit temporary, method for achieving a larger look is quite easy to do with a little practice: [12] X Research source
- Get fully dressed with the bra and top you want to wear. Since this solution involves a trick of the eye, your cleavage and chest area should be visible—wear something low-cut.
- If you're concerned about getting makeup on your shirt, you can protect it with some toilet paper or tape. That said, you probably don't want to use this method while wearing white.
- Create a cleavage shadow with dark bronzer by applying it between your breasts. Load the brush and sweep it upward from the center of your chest and up and out, creating a v-shape between your breasts.
- Apply a lighter-colored face powder to the top half of your breasts. Use a makeup sponge to blend the edges with the bronzer for an even finish.
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Buy a push-up bra. Bra technology has evolved to the point where you can have beautiful, genuine-looking breasts without having to go under the knife or expend effort toward exercising. Shop around for a push-up bra that feels comfortable and makes your chest look the way you want it to. [13] X Research source A great push-up bra won't weigh you down, shift when you move, or make your boobs look pointy or oddly shaped.
- Push-up bras with extra padding can increase your breast size by several cups. Size up one cup or go for two or three sizes bigger.
- Try on push-up bras under a shirt before buying them. You might be surprised at how much heft they add to your chest, and you want to make sure you look natural and comfortable.
- Push-up bras are made with foam, gel, and even water inserts for a natural look.
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Get chicken fillet breast enhancers. These silicone bra inserts are worn inside your unpadded bra to provide a highly realistic simulation of a real breast. [14] X Research source Their weight, texture and appearance is quite close to that of the real thing. You can buy them in a skin tone color or transparent.
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Look into using a breast enhancement cream. The market is full of topical creams containing estrogen and collagens, claiming to increase the size of your breasts. The creams claim to work by stimulating estrogen and increasing blood flow to the breast area. [15] X Research source However, no enhancement cream has been proven to actually enlarge breasts, and most are unregulated and may be unsafe to use. [16] X Trustworthy Source Go Ask Alice Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University Go to source If you want to give this option a try, look for a cream with natural ingredients, like shea butter and aloe. Worst case, your breasts will be soft and moisturized.
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Consider a breast enlargement vacuum. Some studies show that breast enlargement vacuums may expand breast tissue, making your breasts appear larger in size. [17] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source The device is fitted over your breasts like a bra, and the vacuums inside the cups work on your tissue and increase your size over time. You may have to wear the vacuum for 12 hours a day for 10 weeks to see a noticeable difference. [18] X Research source
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Research breast fillers. Fillers are injections of hyaluronic acid into the breast. They can be used to increase your breast by one cup size or correct uneven breasts. [19] X Research source The injection process takes between 60 to 90 minutes, and the procedure can range from $800 to $4,000. [20] X Research source
- Fillers may have extremely dangerous side effects, such as long-term pain, infection, permanent scarring or disfigurement, so do careful research before deciding to use them. [21] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U.S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source
- In some cases you may need a "tune-up" to keep the fillers looking natural.
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Consider fat transfer. In this procedure, fat is taken from one part of the body, such as the thigh or abdomen, and injected into the breasts to make them fuller. [22] X Research source Since some of the fat is absorbed into the body each time, multiple injections are required before results are seen. Pursue this method with extreme caution, since there's a chance the fat will calcify and lead to major health complications. [23] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Know the different types of breast implants. You can choose between silicone or saline implants. Most people believe that silicone implants feel and look more “real,” compared to saline implants. [24] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Generally, breast implants cost between $6,000 to $12,000. [25] X Research source
- In the early 90s, silicone breast implants were taken off the market by the FDA, due to public concerns about health risks. Some claimed they leaked and caused cancer and connective tissue disorders. [26] X Research source After clinical studies, they were placed back on the market in 2006. [27] X Trustworthy Source BreastCancer.org Patient-focused nonprofit organization providing resources for those affected by breast cancer Go to source
- Breast augmentation surgery is not usually covered by insurance companies. [28] X Research source
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Meet with a plastic surgeon. If you decide to get breast implants, you'll meet with a plastic surgeon to discuss which implants are right for you. You should have a firm idea about what size and shape you want your breasts to be. The doctor will show you examples of how the implants will change your figure and walk you through the surgery process. [29] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- According to Barrett, you should look for a surgeon who is “certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.” You should also “evaluate the work that [they’ve] performed in before and after [photos]...and check out their reviews online.” [30]
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Expert Source
Daniel Barrett, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Expert Interview. 23 July 2020. - Talk to the doctor about the medications you are taking to make sure nothing will interfere with the medicines you'll need to take during and after the surgery. [31] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- According to Barrett, you should look for a surgeon who is “certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.” You should also “evaluate the work that [they’ve] performed in before and after [photos]...and check out their reviews online.” [30]
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Expert Source
Daniel Barrett, MD
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Undergo surgery and recovery. You will be placed under general anesthesia while the surgeon makes a cut either under your breasts, under your armpits, or around your nipples, depending on the plan you've agreed upon. [32] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours. [33] X Research source Your breasts will be covered with surgical tape, and you may have breast drains during the healing process. [34] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- According to Barrett, “the downtime for breast augmentation surgery varies from three days to a week.” During this time, you should “mentally and physically de-stress,” so do not “work from home or do any strenuous physical activity.” [35]
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Expert Source
Daniel Barrett, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Expert Interview. 23 July 2020. - Barrett also says that breast augmentation surgery “has one of the lower risk factors for major complication” compared to other plastic surgeries. He recommends “asking the surgeon about their complication rates” as a safety precaution. [36]
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Expert Source
Daniel Barrett, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Expert Interview. 23 July 2020. - Some people need breast implant replacements after ten years, since breasts change shape naturally over time. [37] X Research source
- According to the FDA, breast implants may increase your risk of developing anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, plus interfere with breastfeeding. [38] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U.S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source
- According to Barrett, “the downtime for breast augmentation surgery varies from three days to a week.” During this time, you should “mentally and physically de-stress,” so do not “work from home or do any strenuous physical activity.” [35]
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Expert Source
Daniel Barrett, MD
What Are Signs Of Breast Implant Problems?
Expert Q&A
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QuestionWhat do I need to know before getting breast enlargement surgery?Dr. Daniel Barrett is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and the owner of Barrett Plastic Surgery based in Beverly Hills, California. With over six years of plastic surgery experience, Dr. Barrett specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, nose and body. He has developed detailed scar management protocols and closure techniques to reduce the appearance of scars for his patients. Dr. Barrett obtained a BS from James Madison University and an MD along with an MS in Physiology and and an MHA (Masters of Health Administration) from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond.The most important thing is to do thorough research on the doctor you're seeing. Make sure they're certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have good reviews, and have experience with the specific procedure you want done. After you've found a doctor you like, schedule a consultation so they can answer any questions you have about the surgery and post-recovery.
Video
Tips
- Some believe you can massage your breasts to stimulate growth. [39] X Trustworthy Source Go Ask Alice Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University Go to sourceThanks
Tips from our Readers
- There's nothing wrong with breast enhancement surgery if it's what you really want to do. But if you're considering surgery because of societal pressure to have big breasts, it's probably not a good thing to do. Regardless, if you do consider surgery, do thorough research! Breast augmentation surgery comes with some health risks.
- If you want to makes your breasts look bigger on a certain day or for a special occasion, you can tape your breasts together with breast tape. This will create more cleavage and the illusion of bigger breasts.
- If you just hit puberty, give it time. Your breasts will likely develop soon. Until then, eat a healthy diet and work out regularly. Just be patient.
Warnings
- Do thorough research before using any products marketed for breast enhancement. There are plenty of scams on the market that cost a lot of money and don't actually work.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-do-a-push-up
- ↑ https://cliniquedallas.com/can-boob-workout-make-breasts-bigger-and-perkier/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/multimedia/chest-press/vid-20084677
- ↑ https://drellen.com/three-quick-exercises-to-lift-your-breasts/
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22353-estrogen
- ↑ https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/3-ways-increase-estrogen-naturally
- ↑ https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/faqs/natural-breast-enhancement-do-supplements-work?content_id=FAQ-20057834
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/expert-answers/natural-breast-enhancement/faq-20057834
- ↑ https://pure.johnshopkins.edu/en/publications/weight-changes-can-influence-tissue-patterns-of-the-breast-seen-o-4
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24100511/
- ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/boob-contour-tutorial
- ↑ https://www.shyaway.com/wardrobe/complete-push-up-bra-guide/
- ↑ https://www.frontroomunderfashions.com/how-to-choose-bra-inserts/
- ↑ https://qaziclinic.com/resources/breast-enhancement-creams/
- ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16285326/
- ↑ https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Abstract/2000/06000/Nonsurgical_Breast_Enlargement_Using_an_External.32.aspx
- ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4173863/
- ↑ https://mollieeliseaesthetics.com/boob-filler/
- ↑ https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/dermal-filler-dos-and-donts-wrinkles-lips-and-more
- ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/new-technique-doubles-breast-size-using-patients-own-fat
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24033-fat-transfer-breast-augmentation
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/breast-implants/art-20045957
- ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/how-much-does-breast-augmentation-cost
- ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1676088/
- ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/silicone-implants-linked-to-complications#
- ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/cost
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
- ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
- ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/surgery/plastic/breast
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
- ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
- ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
- ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/six-reasons-to-get-your-breast-implants-replaced
- ↑ https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-know-about-breast-implants
- ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery
About This Article
It’s really hard to increase your breast size, since that’s determined by your genetics. However, some strategies that might work include performing exercises designed to strengthen your pectoral muscles, like push-ups, dumbbell chest presses, or bench presses. Wearing a push-up bra can give the illusion that you have bigger breasts, and taking estrogen supplements has worked for some people Keep reading for tips on using breast enhancement products like breast fillers or enhancement creams.
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