One of the side effects of the obesity epidemic facing America is an increase in the average bra size. As far back as 2005, Discover Magazine published that the increase from an average of a 34B to a 36C means that women have even more weight on their chests. This has translated into more instances of back pain, making breast reduction surgery an attractive option. If you feel the weight of your breasts is causing you back pain or you simply feel they are too large for your frame, a breast reduction may be a viable solution for you.
Causes of Large Breasts
As noted, being overweight can certainly cause your breasts to be heavy. Genetics helps determine where a woman will store excess fat, and plenty of women are predisposed to storing it in their breasts. However, this is not the only factor influencing breast size. Genetics can also cause women who are otherwise very slim to grow large breasts. Estrogen and other hormones present in birth control pills may also play a role in your chest size. No matter what the reason for your chest size, breast reduction surgery can make an appreciable difference in the amount of back pain and discomfort you experience.
The Weight of Your Breasts
Discover Magazine noted that a pair of D-cup breasts may weigh anywhere from 15 to 23 pounds. The next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up two ten-pound bags of sugar and realize that you may be carrying around that much or more just on your chest. Having your breasts reduced to a more reasonable size can really help with back, shoulder and neck pain. This is especially true if you have trouble finding good bras and are wearing poor undergarments.
How a Breast Reduction Resolves or Reduces Pain
When breasts are very large, the weight must be held in place by your back and shoulder muscles. Since there is no corresponding weight hanging from the back of your shoulders, you may have a tendency to stoop or slouch forward. This stresses the muscles even more and can even contribute to the erosion of your spinal discs if left untreated. By reducing the amount of weight hanging from your chest, your muscles and bone structure will be under less stress. Many women who have a breast reduction performed note this sense of relief almost immediately.
Get All the Facts About Breast Reduction Surgery
If you have large breasts and also suffer from back pain, a breast reduction may be the solution you need. Even if you just want your breast size reduced for cosmetic reasons, breast reduction surgery may be perfect for you. At Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery in Indianapolis, Santa Rosa, Beverly Hills or Newport Beach, our team would be happy to assess your individual case and provide you with an explanation of all your options. Don’t suffer when there is help available. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for a breast reduction.