Most of my bras buckle at the top leaving space between chest and cup. Do I have a moderate form of Pectus excavatum? (photos)

Question

Most of my bras buckle at the top leaving space between chest and cup. I have been sized numerous times between 32D and 34C- Currently I wear 32D. I find that I have to bend the underwires in toward my sternum to secure my breast with the cup. Bathing suits are often an issue- anyone to peer straight into my cup because it buckles out. I have recently lost weight and am now measuring 31'' band and 35" cup. please help guide me with knowledge of my bra type and chest form..

Howard Webster, MBBS (Hons), FRACS · Answer

Hi there,I reckon I can help you understand the problems you're having.Firstly, you have a well above average upper body, with excellent proportions.  I hope you are generally happy with your appearance.Second:  You of have mild pectus excavatum, or hollow chest.There are two reasons why your bras are problematic:The first is that with your chest wall shape, the brastrap under the cups sits stretched across your chest in a horizontally flat position, whereas due to your chest shape the breasts angle in a little.  This creates the emptiness at the inner side of the bra cup - the bra "bowstrings" across your chest.The second reason is a size reason.  You're not a D.  In my view you're a B/C.  But your breasts (while being genuinely perfect) are slightly wide for their projection.  Inexperienced or department store bra fitters fit you by measuring the width of your breast - i.e. the "U" shape of the breast curve. In your case, this means they're fitting you with too large a bra, which makes the bra look empty. You need an expert fitter who will have the appropriate bra for you - a wider, flatter cup shaped B or C, which fits perfectly upon the swell of your breast mound.What's the answer?  You need to find an expert bra fitter at a specialist bra or lingerie store in your area who takes the time to properly help you, and who will have a great understanding of all the available bra shapes out there, by many manufacturers.  Most department store fitters will sell you something they stock. There are a huge variety of bra makers, shapes and styles.  An expert bra fitter will be able to direct you to a style and cup shape that suits you.  The bow stringing issue may necessitate a custom bra for you - but ask the experts, after you find them in your area.I think your issues are explained as above, and that the solution is not difficult for you to find.All the best, please let us know how you go!Howard Webster

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based ONLY upon the posted series of photos I agree with Grade II of a pectus congenital/developmental/anatomic deformity...

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph.  The difficulty you have wearing a bra may be a mild form of pectus excavatum.  Based on your side photograph it does appear that the sternum or breast bone is depressed inward.  Another option for the cause of a wide spaced cleavage is that the breast bone itself is wider and thus the insertion of your chest muscles and breast is more laterally displaced.

Most of my bras buckle at the top leaving space between chest and cup. Do I have a moderate form of Pectus excavatum? (photos)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Most of my bras buckle at the top leaving space between chest and cup. Do I have a moderate form of Pectus excavatum? (photos)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.