Can my 32H breasts be the cause of chronic, but not severe, low back pain? I'm 5'3" and 135lbs.

Question

I am 5'3" and weigh 135 lbs. my bra size is 32H. Could my large breast be causing my chronic, but mild, low back pain

Bahram Ghaderi, MD · Answer

Larger breast size has been shown to be a direct cause for back and neck pain. Breast reduction surgery has consistently been successful in reducing or eliminating back and neck pain caused by the heavy weight of large breasts. I would recommend having a consultation with an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Brian J. Lee, MD · Answer

Yes, it most certainly may be a major component of your low back issues. The weight of the breasts supported by your bra places the burden on the shoulders and upper back that then stresses the lower back. Breast reduction surgery is very effective in balancing the weight and reducing or even eliminating the pain.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Larger breasts may be involved in causing lower back pain. It is quite possible. A reduction may help with the lower back pain, but an evaluation by a back specialist may be beneficial as well.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your description, it seems like your breast size may be having a contributing role in your back pain.  Most patients with lower back pain are usually overweight, deconditioned, injured or have bony anatomical issues.  You don't seem to fit into those categories so your breast size and weight may be affecting your posture and contributing to your back pain.  Consider an in person consultation with your primary care doctor, an orthopedist or rehab doctor and a board certified plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

Mark A. Brzezienski, MS, MD, FACS · Answer

Lower back pain can have many contributing factors.  Large breasts can be one of these factors, but perhaps not the only one.  A thorough history of your problem and physical exam performed by your primary care physician is the appropriate first avenue of treatment.  Your physician may recommend NSAIDS, Physical Therapy, and some diagnostic tests (Xrays) to help sort out the problem. Age appropriate breast imaging would also be recommended.  In terms of breast reduction surgery...If your musculoskeletal problems are ultimately linked to your breast hypertrophy, there is plenty of evidence that indicates that breast reductions are safe, reproducible and helpful. A board certified plastic surgeon would be your best resource to discover if a breast reduction is right for you.

Glynn Bolitho, PhD, MD, FACS · Answer

Many patients with large breasts complain of either back, neck or shoulder pain and sometimes they have all three.  With your breast size it is possible they could be the cause of your pain.  I would start by scheduling an appointment with your primary physician to rule out any other possible issue.

Can my 32H breasts be the cause of chronic, but not severe, low back pain? I'm 5'3" and 135lbs.

Answers (6)

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