Are underwired bras bad for your boobs? Does deodorant really give you breast cancer? When it comes to breast health, no doubt we’ve all heard plenty of old wives’ tales presented as facts – but it can be hard to know what to believe.
That’s why we spoke to Dr Georgina Williams, consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon, co-founder of Montrose London, to sort the myths from the facts.
MYTH 1: You should always wear a bra at night
One of the most persistent myths is that wearing a bra while sleeping is essential for breast health (and to stop sagging). The truth is there is no necessity to wear a bra at night; the decision comes down to personal comfort. Some women, particularly those with larger breasts or those recovering from surgery, may find that wearing a light, supportive bra while they sleep can help alleviate discomfort and reduce strain on the skin and soft tissues. However, for the majority, going braless at night is perfectly fine.
Wearing a bra to keep your breasts pert may not be necessary
MYTH 2: Breast sagging is preventable
Breast ptosis, or sagging, is a natural part of aging. It’s caused by gravity, changes in skin elasticity, and the general wear and tear on the skin over time.
While sagging can’t be completely prevented, there are things you can do to slow the process. ‘Maintaining a stable weight, avoiding smoking, wearing supportive bras during high-impact activities, and caring for your skin can all help slow the process,’ explains Dr Williams. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a completely normal and natural part of life.
MYTH 3: Underwired bras are bad for you
Underwired bras have long been a topic of controversy, with many fearing they could cause harm. According to Dr Williams: ‘There is no scientific evidence to suggest that underwired bras are harmful.’ The key to avoiding discomfort or potential harm lies in the fit of the bra.. ‘An ill-fitting bra of any type can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even contribute to poor posture,’ says Dr Williams. A professional fitting is always advisable.
MYTH 4: Deodorant gives you breast cancer
‘There is no credible scientific evidence that deodorants or antiperspirants can cause breast cancer,’ says Dr Williams. ‘This myth likely arose from concerns regarding aluminum compounds and parabens, but extensive research has not shown any causal relationship.’
MYTH 5: You can only increase breast size with implants
For many, implants are seen as the only option for getting bigger breasts. While ‘breast implants remain the most predictable method for enhancing breast size’ says Dr Williams, it is not the only option. Autologous fat transfer, also known as lipofilling, is an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a more natural, subtle enhancement. In this procedure, fat is taken from one part of the body and injected into the breasts. However, ‘results are less predictable than implants, and the procedure may require repeating to get the desired outcome,’ she says.
MYTH 6: Breast size is mainly dictated by your weight
According to Dr Williams ‘Genetics play a substantial role in determining breast size and shape’. However, that is not to say your body weight doesn’t play a part, along with ‘hormonal changes, pregnancies and breastfeeding, as well as age.’
Genetics play a substantial role in determining breast size and shape’
MYTH 7: The optimum goal is to check your breasts once a month
In fact, Dr Williams says ‘the recommendation for self-examining your breasts and armpits for lumps is that you perform it several times each month, which was news to me even when I was a senior surgical trainee.
‘Not enough people know this or indeed do this.’
Once a month is the bare minimum frequency with which you should be checking your breasts for symptoms of cancer. Dr Williams advises that you do this ‘at the same point in your cycle so that the breasts feel roughly the same. Forty per cent of women with breast cancer pick it up through self-examination, and the earlier that is, the greater chance of surviving the disease.’
MYTH 8: Breast reconstruction makes cancer harder to detect
A common myth surrounding breast cancer is that breast reconstruction after a mastectomy can increase the likelihood of cancer returning or can make it harder to detect.
This myth is false, says Dr Williams. ‘Breast reconstruction does not increase the risk of recurrence, nor does it impede cancer surveillance,’ she explains.
MYTH 9: You can burn off breast tissue with exercise
Finally, there’s the belief that exercise can target and reduce breast size by burning fat from the breast tissue.
Unfortunately, this is simply not true. ‘While overall fat loss can reduce breast volume, targeted exercise cannot specifically reduce breast tissue,’ says Dr Williams. The breasts are made up of both glandular tissue and fat, and while weight loss can affect their size, exercise alone cannot selectively reduce the fat in your breasts.
