6 signs your big breasts are a big problem

Like all parts of our anatomy, breasts come in many different shapes and sizes. But there can be health problems that come with having very large breasts.

If any of the following sound familiar, it may be time to ask if losing weight, physiotherapy, or breast reduction or uplift surgery could help.

They get in the way of your lifestyle

Big breasts can literally get in the way of the things you love doing. Many women who consider breast reduction surgery do so because they’re passionate about sport or lead an active lifestyle.

Women will know how unruly breasts can be when coping with the demands of physical activity. If a sports bra can’t contain them, or you find yourself being less active because of your breasts, then it may be time to think about ways to reduce their size.

You may be a candidate for breast reduction or breast uplift surgery, or you may benefit from losing weight.

Your bra straps cut into your shoulders

First things first: make sure you’re not wearing a bra that’s too small for you. Most underwear retailers will be able to provide guidance on this. If you’re wearing the right bra and you find the weight of your breasts is causing your bra straps to dig into your shoulders every day, then you may be a candidate for a reduction.

Breast uplift surgery is an alternative that can alter the shape and volume of your breasts, helping to fight gravity and stop your bra leaving deep grooves in the skin of your back.

You have back, shoulder or neck pain

Pain should never be ignored. If you have large breasts and experience pain around your upper back, shoulders or neck, then your breasts could be a contributing factor.

While surgery could be an option, physiotherapy can also help with managing pain and posture.

You get rashes or infections under the breast

Large breasts can cause skin to fold and rub on itself. It can be difficult to access the area when bathing and as a result rashes and infections may develop. If this happens to you then breast reduction of uplift surgery may help.

Nothing fits

It can be very distressing to constantly fight against your body when getting dressed. You may have to wear dresses or tops that are too large for the rest of your body or are too small for your breasts. Losing weight may alter the size and shape of your breasts to make you feel more comfortable.

If you're a healthy weight, breast reduction or breast uplift surgery could help.

You always have to remind people that “I’m up here”

Women with large breasts know all too well how they can affect their professional and personal lives. It’s not your problem if people can’t stop staring at your breasts, it’s their problem.

However, if you feel that reducing the size of your breasts could have a positive impact on your relationships then it may be worth considering weight loss or surgery.

Last updated Tuesday 24 January 2023

First published on Monday 12 December 2016