How Large Breasts Can Lead to Back Problems

How Large Breasts Can Lead to Back Problems

Breast surgery isn’t always about getting a bigger cup size. Thousands of women elect breast reduction surgery every year to remove excess tissue and achieve more comfort in their daily lives.

Overly large breasts can cause excess tension on the neck, shoulder, and back muscles. This tension can cause serious back pain, limit daily movement, inhibit exercise, and prevent you from wearing many styles. 

At Plastic Surgery Arts Center in Webster, Texas, our cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Jan Garcia, performs breast reduction surgery to help women find relief from heavy breasts.

If your large breasts cause back and neck pain, then breast reduction surgery may just be the solution you need. 

Large breasts change your center of gravity

Back pain due to large breasts is due to a change in your center of gravity. Heavy tissue pulls your upper body forward, so the muscles of your back have to work harder to keep you upright. 

Some women experience compression in the thoracic outlet. This space is where nerves pass through a narrow opening between the muscles around the ribs and shoulder blades. Compression in the thoracic outlet causes back pain.

In addition to back pain, you may suffer from postural deviations. Women with large breasts often compensate by hunching forward, which tightens the front of the shoulders and strains the neck. 

Other implications of overly large breasts

When you feel your breasts are too large, you may feel self-conscious and be the subject of teasing. Your breasts can also limit your physical activity and the ability to exercise comfortably.

Some women find the weight of their breasts causes shoulder indentations from their bra straps. Irritation and skin rashes can develop underneath the breast crease, compounding your discomfort.

How breast reduction surgery helps

During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Garcia makes small incisions through which he removes excess fat and tissue. He then tightens up sagging skin to maintain your breasts’ shape and appearance. 

There is some healing time following breast reduction surgery, but you’ll get relief from back pain almost immediately.

Once your incisions have healed, you benefit from physical therapy that helps strengthen your back muscles.

Am I a candidate for breast reduction?

We usually recommend that your breasts be fully developed before undergoing surgery. In young people, the full support structures of the back and shoulders aren’t fully developed either. But, teens who have overly large breasts can sometimes be a candidate if their chest size interferes with daily life. Dr. Garcia works with you to make the right recommendations. 

If you have back pain due to other conditions, like spinal stenosis or a herniated disc, breast reduction surgery won’t bring complete relief. 

Also know that you don’t have to be suffering from back pain to be a candidate for breast reduction surgery. Many women get a reduction because they’re uncomfortable with the appearance of their chest or because they find larger breasts interfere with their desired activities.

If you’re considering breast reduction surgery or any other cosmetic procedure, consult with us here at Plastic Surgery Arts Center. This month, we’re also running specials on breast augmentation, liposuction, dermal fillers, and laser procedures. We can help you look the best you’ve ever looked with our body and facial treatments. 

Call Plastic Surgery Arts Center today or use the “book online” button on this website to request an appointment.

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