Breast reduction: when overly large breasts become a health problem

Much is said about breast augmentation, but far less about the opposite. In fact, while in the first case the surgery is almost always for aesthetic reasons only, in the second there may be health-related motivations.

Some women develop poor postural habits, such as slouching their shoulders, due either to the weight of their breasts or to the desire to hide them.

Over time, this condition can lead to kyphosis (hunchback) or scoliosis of the spine and rib cage. The size of the breasts shifts the body’s centre of gravity, forcing the neck and shoulders to bear a significant load that may cause shoulder and cervical spine pain, as well as postural defects.

Large breasts can also cause dermatological issues, such as skin irritation beneath the breast fold.

Moreover, even everyday activities may be impaired and limited, as well as sports activities — even something as simple as playing tennis or running on the beach.

To learn more, visit the section dedicated to breast reduction.