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

Question

I am 22 years old, female, 5'0", and 155 lbs. My bra size is 32 I. Four years ago I was 135 lbs and bra size 32 DDD. A couple months ago I saw a doctor and was told I have costochronditis and have been taking medication to help with the pain.

Brian J. Lee, MD · Answer

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.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

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

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

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

Best,
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS

Harvard educated plastic surgeon

Talmage J. Raine, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

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

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

Answers (4)

More Breast Reduction Questions

Skin peeling off after breast reduction - 2 weeks post-op. (photo)

Breast reduction surgery gone wrong - 18 months post-op. (photo)

Does it take a while for back pain to go away after a breast reduction?

Little black spot 4 months after breast reduction. Is that normal or should I be concerned? (photo)

I'm 19, 34DDD, want a breast reduction. (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS