Mammary connective tissue

Introduction

The female breast is composed of varying amounts of fatty tissue and connective tissue, as well as the functional mammary gland with its ducts. The connective tissue of the breast forms the basic structure and provides the shape. In the course of life, the breast acquires significance, especially in aesthetic terms.

In women, the breast is one of the secondary sexual characteristics. Its most important function is the formation of a mammary gland during pregnancy to feed a child. As a rule, the breasts develop during puberty, between the ages of 12 and 17.

However, the complete functional gland does not develop until pregnancy. The tissue of the breast then reconstructs and the fat is largely replaced by glandular tissue and excretory ducts. Connective tissue is found throughout the body and, in a broader sense, includes muscles, fat, bones and cartilage.

However, when we speak of the connective tissue of the breast, we mean primarily the so-called “collagenous” connective tissue, which consists of firm fibres. The collagen fibres form a tight mesh that is enriched with proteins. It should be able to withstand tensile forces and cushion compressive forces.

Connective tissue fibres can be permanently overstressed and lose their tensile strength. Even the everyday strain on the breast caused by gravity leads to the connective tissue of the breast becoming less firm in the course of life. Especially in aesthetic medicine, this fact has been gaining importance for decades. Many women strive for the youthful ideal of firm and non-sloping breasts. Plastic surgery is largely concerned with the appearance and aesthetics of the female breast.

Methods for streamlining

The causes of sagging breasts are extremely varied. Collagen fibres of the connective tissue of the breast can cushion strong tension, but they change with strain over the years and lose elasticity. Possible causes for a decreasing firmness of the connective tissue of the breast are genetic factors or the consequences of pregnancy.

The percentage of fatty tissue is also decisive. If the fatty tissue predominates, the connective tissue loses its function. There are several methods for tightening the breasts.

After pregnancy, the connective tissue of the breast rebuilds, which favours the development of sagging breasts. If the breasts sag after pregnancy, proper care can help to achieve firmer breasts. Hanging breasts can also be surgically removed with a relatively uncomplicated procedure, which strengthens the self-confidence of many women. In addition, the shape, appearance and size of the breasts can be changed individually.

Strengthen the connective tissue

There are various approaches to strengthening the connective tissue of the breast. The aim is to maintain the elasticity of the breast so that the connective tissue does not slacken and lead to sagging breasts. Sports activities in particular have a decisive, positive effect on the connective tissue of the breast.

However, time and genetic factors still lead to the connective tissue of the breast sagging at some point. Targeted muscle building has a preventive effect against sagging connective tissue. The breast muscles can be easily trained without equipment.

Push-ups and the breast press are the most effective exercises for strengthening the muscles. If the push-ups are performed with a wide range of motion and a large arm distance, the chest muscles can be strengthened in a targeted manner. With the chest press you stand upright, hip-wide and press the palms of your hands firmly against each other at chest level, with fingers and elbows pointing upwards.

The pressure should be held with strong force for at least 15 seconds. The exercises can be repeated at will and strength. Regular swimming is also considered to strengthen the chest muscles.

Many creams, home remedies and naturopathic remedies are also said to help strengthen the connective tissue of the breast. The ingredients of firming creams vary greatly. Commonly used remedies contain elderberry, algae, olive or avocado extracts.

However, it has not been conclusively scientifically clarified how well these products work. Hormones only apparently lead to a strengthening of the connective tissue of the breast. With the use of the contraceptive pill or the beginning of a pregnancy, the breasts grow and look fuller. However, this does not strengthen the connective tissue in the long term.