Back Pain and Large Breasts: What Experts Want You to Know

by Dr. Ashok B C, HOD - Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic surgery & Chief of Medical Services, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

Back pain is one of the problems caused by large breasts due to the excessive weight of the breast tissues that exert pressure on muscles and ligaments located in the back, neck and shoulders thereby subjecting a person to chronic pains. The poor posture maintained to counterbalance weight issues worsens this kind of pain. In most cases, women with huge breasts experience severe neck, shoulder and back pains throughout their lives that curtail their day-to-day activities.
Increased Strain on the Body
•    A BMI over 30 can worsen symptoms as the added weight from large breasts increases strain on the body.
•    Over time, this strain can lead to spine misalignment and posture deficits, causing additional stress on surrounding muscles and persistent pain.
Additional Physical Discomfort
•    Back Pain: Large breasts commonly cause pain in the upper and middle back due to direct strain on the thoracic spine and surrounding muscles.
•    Neck and Shoulder Pain: Pain often extends to the neck and shoulders.
•    Skin Issues: Skin irritation or rashes can occur under the breasts.
•    Shoulder Grooves: Bra straps may leave grooves in the shoulders.
Impact on Physical Activity
•    Limited physical activity can lead to weight gain and associated health issues.
•    Emotional Distress: Body image concerns may cause emotional and psychological distress.
Pain Characteristics
•    Dull Aches: Commonly reported as a dull, aching pain in the upper back, neck, and shoulders.
•    Sharp Pain: Can become sharp with physical activity or poor posture.
•    Throbbing Pain: May occur due to muscle spasms or tension.
Activities That Exacerbate Pain
•    Prolonged standing or sitting with poor posture.
•    Lifting heavy objects.
•    High-impact exercises.
•    Repetitive shoulder movements like reaching or carrying heavy bags.
The majority of patients report great relief from pain after their surgery and are satisfied with how their breasts look like post-surgery. They often claim improved posture, better participation in physical activities, and improved quality of life overall. Generally speaking, cosmetic outcomes were positive since most women reported natural-looking breasts which were proportional too. Yet breast reduction just like any other surgical procedure carries its own risks including infection, bleeding or hematoma formation, scar formations or nipple changes besides sensation changes on nipples or the whole breast itself. Additionally, some may experience asymmetry or dissatisfaction with aesthetic results, but these cases occur infrequently when the surgeon has good skills.
In conclusion, large breasts can significantly impact a woman's physical and emotional well-being, often leading to chronic back pain and related issues. While non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes can offer relief, breast reduction surgery remains a highly effective option for many. Indian women, in particular, may face unique challenges, making awareness and access to appropriate care essential for improving their quality of life.