How to Increase Breast Size

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

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.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Diet and Exercise

PDF download Download Article
  1. 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] 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]
  2. This is another great chest workout that can create bigger, stronger pec muscles. [3] 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]
    • Slowly lower the weights down and repeat.
    Advertisement
  3. This type of exercise requires contracting your muscles without extending them, and it can help lift your breasts for a perkier chest. [5] 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.
  4. 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] 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] Breast enhancement supplements usually contain phytoestrogens and herbs, such palmetto and wild yam. [8]
    • However, there is no evidence that phytoestrogens can increase breast size. [9]
  5. 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] Becoming pregnant is another way to increase breast size naturally. [11]
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Cosmetic Solutions

PDF download Download Article
  1. 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]
    • 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.
  2. 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] 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.
  3. These silicone bra inserts are worn inside your unpadded bra to provide a highly realistic simulation of a real breast. [14] 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.
    4. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Breast Enhancement Products

PDF download Download Article
  1. 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] However, no enhancement cream has been proven to actually enlarge breasts, and most are unregulated and may be unsafe to use. [16] 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.
  2. Some studies show that breast enlargement vacuums may expand breast tissue, making your breasts appear larger in size. [17] 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]
  3. 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] The injection process takes between 60 to 90 minutes, and the procedure can range from $800 to $4,000. [20]
    • 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]
    • In some cases you may need a "tune-up" to keep the fillers looking natural.
  4. 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] 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]
    5. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Surgical Enhancement

PDF download Download Article
  1. You can choose between silicone or saline implants. Most people believe that silicone implants feel and look more “real,” compared to saline implants. [24] Generally, breast implants cost between $6,000 to $12,000. [25]
    • 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] After clinical studies, they were placed back on the market in 2006. [27]
    • Breast augmentation surgery is not usually covered by insurance companies. [28]
  2. 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]
    • 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]
    • 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]
  3. 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] The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours. [33] Your breasts will be covered with surgical tape, and you may have breast drains during the healing process. [34]
    • 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]
    • 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]
    • Some people need breast implant replacements after ten years, since breasts change shape naturally over time. [37]
    • 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]
    4. Advertisement

What Are Signs Of Breast Implant Problems?


Join the Discussion...

How do I get bigger boobs without surgery?
WikiGladeRunner771
28
WikiGladeRunner771
hi, i'm wondering is there any way i can get bigger boobs naturally? are there like any exercises i can do or foods to eat or vitamins to take or... Read More
WikiDugongWeaver655
WikiDugongWeaver655
Really the only way to get bigger boobs is to gain weight. But even then, you can't control where the fat will go—it might end up someplace oth... Read More
WikiLionReader433
WikiLionReader433
Unfortunately the size of your boobs is mostly determined by genetics. There's not much you can do to make them naturally a lot bigger on your ow... Read More
See all 3 Replies and
Read Discussion

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What do I need to know before getting breast enlargement surgery?
    Daniel Barrett, MD
    Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    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.
    Daniel Barrett, MD
    Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    Expert Answer
    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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 10
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • 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.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      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
        Helpful 174 Not Helpful 75
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      Measuring Bra Size at Home: A Complete Guide
      How to
      Buy a Well Fitting Bra
      How to
      Visually Reduce Large Breasts
      How to
      Get Rid of Inverted Nipples
      How to
      Make Your Breasts Smaller
      12 Treatments for Itchy Boobs & Nipples
      How to
      Weigh Your Breasts
      How to
      Naturally Increase Breast Size
      How to
      Soothe Sore Nipples
      How to
      Avoid Having Sagging Breasts as a Young Woman
      How to
      Fix Imbalanced Breast Sizes
      How to
      Reduce Drainage After a Mastectomy
      14 Easy Ways to Prevent Saggy Breasts after Breastfeeding
      How to
      Do a Breast Self Exam
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery
      2. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-do-a-push-up
      3. ↑ https://cliniquedallas.com/can-boob-workout-make-breasts-bigger-and-perkier/
      4. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/multimedia/chest-press/vid-20084677
      5. ↑ https://drellen.com/three-quick-exercises-to-lift-your-breasts/
      6. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22353-estrogen
      7. ↑ https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/3-ways-increase-estrogen-naturally
      8. ↑ https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/faqs/natural-breast-enhancement-do-supplements-work?content_id=FAQ-20057834
      9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/expert-answers/natural-breast-enhancement/faq-20057834
      1. ↑ https://pure.johnshopkins.edu/en/publications/weight-changes-can-influence-tissue-patterns-of-the-breast-seen-o-4
      2. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24100511/
      3. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/boob-contour-tutorial
      4. ↑ https://www.shyaway.com/wardrobe/complete-push-up-bra-guide/
      5. ↑ https://www.frontroomunderfashions.com/how-to-choose-bra-inserts/
      6. ↑ https://qaziclinic.com/resources/breast-enhancement-creams/
      7. ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery
      8. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16285326/
      9. ↑ https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Abstract/2000/06000/Nonsurgical_Breast_Enlargement_Using_an_External.32.aspx
      10. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4173863/
      11. ↑ https://mollieeliseaesthetics.com/boob-filler/
      12. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/dermal-filler-dos-and-donts-wrinkles-lips-and-more
      13. ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/new-technique-doubles-breast-size-using-patients-own-fat
      14. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24033-fat-transfer-breast-augmentation
      15. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/breast-implants/art-20045957
      16. ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/how-much-does-breast-augmentation-cost
      17. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1676088/
      18. ↑ https://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/silicone-implants-linked-to-complications#
      19. ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/cost
      20. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
      21. ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
      22. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
      23. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
      24. ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/surgery/plastic/breast
      25. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation
      26. ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
      27. ↑ Daniel Barrett, MD. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Expert Interview. 23 July 2020.
      28. ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/six-reasons-to-get-your-breast-implants-replaced
      29. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-know-about-breast-implants
      30. ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-make-my-breasts-bigger-without-surgery

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      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.

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,872,120 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Krystyna Whitney

        Jan 10, 2019

        "I am very pleased about the information on this site. Being transgender (going from male to female), all the ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement