Can large breasts cause costochronditis and could I get a reduction?

It is possible that your costochondritis is from heavy, pulling breasts, but that is difficult to discern without an examination. Based on your description you sound like a good candidate for breast reduction. Seek consultation from a qualified plastic surgeon for a personal examination. 

A breast reduction may improve back pain. I don't think it would help costochondritis.  Best of luck..

Hello and thank you for your excellent question. I have not seen large breasts cause costochondritis, but it is possible that they could be contributing to your discomfort. Preoperative visualization and surgical simulation with the Crisalix system may help with your decision. Any treatment plan should be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you and your surgeon.    Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation in person with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck! 


Best,
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS 

Harvard educated plastic surgeon

I have seen costochondritis and treated it. I have seen many issues with heavy, pendulous breasts. I have never seen costochondritis with macromastia. I am not saying it cannot happen. If your surgeon feels they are related then a letter to your insurance company would be in order. It is unclear to me that your symptoms would be relieved with a breast reduction, but it may be worth a try.All the best,Talmage Raine MD