Can Menopause Affect Your Breasts?

Have you noticed changes in your breasts since entering menopause? It’s a common part of this journey—about 1 in 5 women need a new bra size after menopause, often requiring a larger size. From tenderness to changes in shape and size, these variations can feel overwhelming. However, understanding what’s happening to your body and knowing your options can help you feel more confident moving forward.

At The Private Clinic, we offer a range of breast procedures tailored to your needs, designed to help you regain confidence and comfort. With expert surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and years of experience, we ensure the highest standard of care

For more information on breast surgery, visit our breast surgery procedures page.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Occurring typically around the age of 50, it is preceded by perimenopause, during which hormonal fluctuations can cause changes in your body. As oestrogen levels drop, it affects many areas, including the breasts, which can lead to noticeable changes.

How Might Menopause Affect Your Breasts?

As your body undergoes hormonal changes during menopause, you may notice the following changes in your breasts:

Breast Tissue Changes

One of the most common changes is a shift in breast tissue. Oestrogen, which keeps breast tissue dense, decreases during menopause. This leads to a reduction in glandular tissue, replaced by fatty tissue. As a result, your breasts may feel softer and less firm.

Breast Size

Many women find their breast size changes during menopause. 1 in 5 women report needing a new bra size after menopause, often requiring a larger size. Some women may notice a decrease in size, depending on how their body responds to hormonal fluctuations.

Breast Shape

In addition to size changes, your breast shape may also alter. Loss of volume, especially in the upper part of the breasts, can cause them to sag or become less youthful in appearance. This is a natural consequence of ageing and hormonal shifts.

Breast Tenderness

Breast tenderness isn’t as common as it was in your younger years, but some women still experience it during menopause. This can be due to fluctuating hormone levels. Tenderness may vary in intensity and duration, but it often improves as hormone levels stabilise.

Nipple and Areola Changes

Hormonal changes can also affect the nipples and areolas, leading to increased sensitivity or changes in size and pigmentation. While these changes are generally harmless, they can be a source of concern for some women.

Lumpiness

Some women experience lumpy breasts during menopause. This can happen due to the shift in breast tissue. While this is usually harmless, it’s always a good idea to have any new or persistent lumps checked by a healthcare professional.

How to Manage Breast Changes During Menopause

While changes in breast size and shape are natural, there are several ways to manage these shifts and maintain comfort. Here are a few tips:

• Invest in a Well-Fitting Bra: As your breast size and shape change, getting a proper fitting is key. A well-fitting bra provides essential support, enhancing comfort and helping you feel confident.
• Limit Smoking and Caffeine: Smoking and excessive caffeine can reduce skin elasticity, which can make sagging more noticeable. Cutting back on these habits can help keep your skin firmer for longer.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Weight fluctuations can affect your breast size and shape. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help you maintain a healthy weight, which in turn supports breast health.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity, particularly strength training, helps keep your muscles toned, including the muscles under the breasts. Regular exercise supports your overall health and can improve the appearance of your breasts.
• Pain Relief: If you’re experiencing tenderness, painkillers like ibuprofen can offer relief. Speak with your doctor to ensure they’re the right choice for your needs.

Your Options at The Private Clinic

If the changes to your breasts are affecting your self-esteem or causing discomfort, there are a number of procedures at The Private Clinic that may help. Here’s how we can assist:

Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)

A breast uplift can help lift and reshape breasts that have sagged due to the loss of volume or firmness. If menopause has left you with breasts that feel less youthful, this procedure can restore their shape and position, making them firmer and more elevated. Learn more about breast uplift surgery here.

See more Breast Uplift Before & After Results

Breast Enlargement (Augmentation)

If your breasts have lost volume, breast enlargement can restore fullness and improve shape. Whether through implants or fat transfer, this procedure can enhance your breasts’ size and appearance. Learn more about breast augmentation here.

See more Breast Enlargement Before & After Results

Breast Reduction

For women whose breasts have become larger or heavier after menopause, breast reduction can alleviate physical discomfort and improve the breast’s shape. This procedure removes excess tissue, offering relief from pain and improving overall aesthetics. Learn more about breast reduction here.

See more Breast Reduction Before & After Results

Take Back Control of Your Confidence

Menopause may bring changes to your breasts, but it doesn’t have to affect your confidence. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, changes in size, or shape, there are ways to manage these changes effectively. 

Our Expert Breast Surgeons

• Mr Davood Fallahdar, MD&Surg (Hons), FRCS (Eng), Chir Plast (Hons), MicroSurg (Hons), ORL (H&N) GMC Number: 4686602
• Ms Helena Antoniadou, MBBS, MD & Surg (Hons), FRCS (Eng). GMC Number: 3700956
• Mr Maisam Fazel, MA(Cantab), MB BChir, MSEd, FRCS. GMC Number : 4767420
• Mr Giuseppe Di Taranto, MD. GMC Number: 7614248
• Professor Sandip Hindocha, MD, MPhil, MBChB, MRCS, MFFLM, FRCS (Plast). GMC Number: 6122218
• Ms Rieka Taghizadeh, MBChb, MRCS (Glas), FRCS (Plast), GMC Number: 4743910
• Mr George Samouris, MD. GMC Number: 7064009

Get in touch

If you’re ready to explore options for enhancing or restoring the appearance of your breasts, book a consultation with The Private Clinic today, give us a call on 0330 828 4608. Our expert surgeons are ready to help you find the right solution tailored to your needs.