Are underwire bras bad for your breasts? Does deodorant give you breast cancer? When it comes to breast health, we’ve all heard plenty of old wives’ tales presented as fact, but it can be hard to know exactly what to believe. Dr. Georgina Williams, a reconstructive and plastic surgeon, recently addressed these and other issues, separating the myths from the facts.
MYTH 1: You should always wear a bra at night.
The truth is, it’s not necessary to wear a bra at night. The decision comes down to personal comfort. For some women — particularly those recovering from surgery or those who have larger breasts — wearing a light supportive bra to bed may help alleviate discomfort, but for the majority, going braless at night is perfectly fine.
MYTH 2: Breast sagging is preventable.
Breast ptosis (sagging) is a natural part of aging that’s caused by gravity, changes in skin elasticity, and the general wear and tear on the skin over time. While it can’t completely be prevented, there are things that will 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.
MYTH 3: Underwire bras are bad for you.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that underwire bras are harmful. The key to avoiding discomfort lies in the fit of the bra. An ill-fitting bra of any kind can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and can even contribute to poor posture.
MYTH 4: Deodorant gives you breast cancer.
There is no credible scientific evidence that deodorants or antiperspirants cause breast cancer. The myth arose from concerns regarding aluminum compounds and parabens, but extensive research has not shown any relationship.
MYTH 5: Breast size is dictated by your weight.
Genetics plays a substantial role in determining breast size and shape. That’s not to say that body weight doesn’t play a part, along with hormonal changes, pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as age.
MYTH 6: Breast reconstruction makes cancer harder to detect.
This myth is false. Breast reconstruction doesn’t increase the risk of recurrence, nor does it impeded cancer surveillance.
MYTH 7: You can burn off breast tissue with exercise.
Unfortunately, this is simply not true. While overall fat loss can reduce breast volume, targeted exercise can’t. 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.
