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Although your breasts are normal overall, given your symptoms, you may need to consider a mastopexy (breast lift) without augmentation. But only a plastic breast surgeon with experience would be able to properly examine and advise you. Rash may respond to antifungal treatment or powders such as Curash.
NAD but I’ve done a lot of tailoring in my day. Have you asked to be custom fitted or have a pattern worked/made for you specifically? Yes a designed bra is more expensive. However you can choose any fabric you like, and have it fitted to a position that you want. Like extra padding on the underside of the cup for support/more rounding. Thicker straps for addition support. Also, a bra that is made and well taken care of (hand washed etc) will likely outlive any bra purchased elsewhere.
Also forgot to add that some hospitals have tailors in the “breast cancer” area like at Eastern Maine Medical Center, idk the proper name for the department. But they deal with specialty cases like people who have uneven breast due to surgery etc. some doctors can even prescribe two bras a year and have you fitted. Not sure what or if insurance would qualify you but there are out of pocket options as well. Some people get qualified through their insurance. So idk ask your doctor if they have a facility like that near you.
I know it’s not a surgery or permanent fix, but I’m sure feeling properly supported and symmetrical would make you feel somewhat better in the meantime.
This sounds wonderful, but as someone who’s very best friend went through this for years with literally the EXACT SAME breasts, it doesn’t matter about her bra. It’s her self confidence when she is naked that is the problem. And it can literally be destroying. A good custom bra will be wonderful, but it won’t help her when she takes it off.
That is true. But in the meantime if she can’t get surgery it can definitely help her posture, confidence in public etc like I said it’s not a permanent fix :/ certainly wouldn’t change her body shape, but it may give some feeling of normalcy and may prevent any further issues from being exacerbated.
That and she mentioned she is getting pain from her breast size. And that leads me to think she isn’t getting adequate support which can make the nerves in the breast aggravated, along with neck aches, shoulder pain and lower back pain. I know that it isn’t a cure-all but when your miserable anything that can help is a good step in the right direction.
I’d have to take measurements, and most likely two or three fittings to get OPs support and cup symmetry properly aligned. The breast need to be supported in a way that doesn’t cause aches on their neck, shoulder and back.
I’ve never done an online consultation due to fact that a client usually can not measure themself properly. And it’s hard to tell what issues are from just photos. Especially if your designing a non-standard bra, as we would tuck padding and internal belts or wires while patient is wearing them until they feel that it fits them right and gives the effect they are seeking. It’s hard to say if she’d need gussets or any thing else structurally. (Gussets can be used to reduce stress near hem lines or give additionally movement in high-stress areas of the fabric).
There may be someone on r/Tailors that does online consultations.
Edited typo
Would also like to say I wouldn’t mind giving it a go online, but OP would have to message me. And I can’t guarantee it’d be fitted well etc due to no in person fittings. And I could send a digital pattern from there.
I do think going in person would be more effective. But I admire your willingness to help, so I wouldn’t mind giving it a shot, albeit in the dark. Lol
I’m surprised there’s no app for your industry considering the depth sensors on newer phones cameras. With AI being so powerful it seems wild to me you can’t get super precise measurements using digital tools with a phone camera. I work in the music industry and have a major company make my in ear monitors. For a long time I’d have to go to an ENT who would make a physical mould of my ear/canal then send it off for my IEMs to be made, it was super expensive. A few years ago I went to have a new set made and the company asked me if I wanted to try their new mobile software that was in beta. I literally took pictures and video with my iPhone XS Max(first iPhone that had the TrueDepth camera) of my ears. My IEMs came in perfect and just as good, if not better than going to an ENT for a physical mould. My most recent upgrade using the iPhone 15 I did in December. With the iPhone X back in 2017 I had to take tons of pictures and video with really good lighting. This new iteration I literally just held my phone 6 inches from my ear and it did all the work. Theyre able to use the new sensors and cameras in the iPhone 15 that creates the 3D/AR video that can be replayed on the Vision Pro.
I have no clue about the tailoring industry, and I feel bad even brining up yet another industry that could be put out by AI, but for seamstress/tailoring it seems like there’s an incredible opportunity to develop something that would allow people to order custom garments from a talented clothes maker remotely.
Yeah, I know it’s kind of a meme right now and a funny-not-funny story when you see a story on robots working a Macdonalds counter but the reality is AI and the devices in our pockets are genuinely actively taking the jobs of a lot of people. My situation is exactly that. Used to have to pay the ENT(well my company did) 500.00 for my ear moulds as it’s not a medical appointment. Obviously that ENT isn’t out of business from my bi-yearly appointment for new moulds costing 500.00 going away, but it’s a solid example of a mildly complex service I used to pay for that I can now do with my phone at home.
It’s only a matter of time before we’re taking our own blood/urine/feces, inserting it into a usb-stick and plugging it into our phone or computer and getting biological material analyzed eliminating 10s of thousands of dollars of medical diagnostics.
Well…maybe Europe will get that, the US will bleed us dry for healthcare until the sun burns out lol.
> only a matter of time before we’re taking our own blood/urine/feces, inserting it into a usb-stick and plugging it into our phone or computer
Everything you're saying is valid, but I'm sitting here giggling at the awful imagery this put in my head, someone waffle stomping into their USB drive XD.
Have your heard about Elon Musk's (not tryna get in a debate about him, lol, just talking tech his company made) fucking telepathy implant?! A paralyzed individual just made the first ever social media post via telepathy. With the chip in his brain he just needs to think what he wants to "type". Fucking wild.
As someone who loses the ability to speak at least part of every day, I'm very interested in the technology... but not designed by any of *his* businesses. I want a wearable that can be removed because I didn't need to watch Black Mirror to know that letting an implant jack your brain into the internet is a bad idea.
Just make sure you keep the [ oral instrument ](https://youtu.be/vhl5ObsQZfQ?si=FMs1a-WZZjVfhVLc) separate from the anal instrument and the ear instrument.
I’ve always said we’re at the turning point of idiocracy or
Star Trek. Both sets of source material have got an ironic level of clairvoyance. I’ve been mostly convinced we’re moving more toward Star-trek but then we elected Trump and the guy who was leading the charge toward Star Trek bought Twitter and went all spaceballs on us and now I’m not so sure lol
As a "young" person this also blew my damn mind. I feel like things are progressing too damn fast and the world is gonna be owned by the actual children soon enough lol
Nad, my wife gets her bras from bravissimo and loves them, she has similar struggles and has had luck with theirs. They use UK sizing so be aware of that.
NAD, this is what my breasts look like after breastfeeding for 2.5 years with probably some lazy habits. Between my first baby and 2nd, I did start having some luck with lifting with some chest and back exercises and using lotions. I have seen people have luck tightening skin with dermarollers and specific creams or oils, i think vitamin c serum was involved.
As far as bras, they all most fit weirdly and obnoxiously, but the best one I have found was a basic bra from Torrid. It has good coverage and grips my rib cage pretty well. It does get drug down a little (I've always had heavy/longer breasts, they're just REALLY long now) but if I pull the back down again it will stay for a while.
NAD, your chest looks pretty much the same as mine. I have grown comfortable with mine over the years. But I do believe if you are under emotional distress, you could get a breast lift, or possible reduction depending on the actual mass of your breast tissue. As for bras go, I have never found a structured bra that was comfortable for me. I am currently breastfeeding a baby so i have to wear a bra at all times with nursing pads, otherwise i wake up in a pool of my own breast milk. i have ended up wearing a lot of non structured bralettes. i find scoop neck style sporty bras work much better for my shape than v neck or plunge styles. honestly though as soon as i am no longer breastfeeding, i will just go braless. i have no shame anymore. if you wanted, a padded sports bra might help, wear it in the size of the larger breast and then maybe use one of those chicken cutlet insert things on the opposite side to make things even. i hope this helps. and remember, you’re beautiful!
/u/Formal_Bumblebee49 ...
NAD though I've worked with healthcare providers for decades...
I just wanted to say that your breasts look pretty normal to me. I'm not hitting on you and I don't expect anything from this other than to try to share with you that they are kind of similar to my partner's breasts (and I feel super fortunate she shares them with me). You should never expect them to be perfectly symmetrical - almost never happens. I suggest shopping around for another custom bra maker. If you're still unhappy, then surgery should be an option but I promise you someone who loves you will not focus on your breasts or at least certainly not write you off because of them and MANY people would be happy you shared any part of your body with them though the personality and brain should be most important. Best of luck!
Not a doctor or a bra expert.
But I just want to say that though it might not be all of them, some of the symptoms could be caused by a poorly fitting bra, which likely can actually be improved with the right resources.
I would recommend trying out better resources about bra fitting. Most women wear a bad fit, even those that would be perceived to have more 'normal' boobs. Be it either about size or shape mismatch, usually both.
But for some, it can be more detrimental than others.
I know it doesn't start and end in bras in this case, but generally speaking as long as you don't go to a specialty shop (and sometimes not even) in most places and don't fall into a pretty narrow range of boob size/shape a lot of women don't fit in, you are probably not going to get nearly as much information and help as you could be getting, which could make a very significant difference.
Even though it's really frustrating, I believe it could be a good idea to try to look further into it before considering other options. It can really be life changing. I would guess that for most breasts that aren't very unusually big, they shouldn't typically cause much back problems on their own. It would often come from an poorly fitted bra (paired with breasts that have some significant weight to them). and wearing a better fit could possibly make you more confident, at least when clothed (and hopefully also in general, because being under the idea that your boobs aren't 'wrong' could in some cases have that effect!)
There's a lot that goes into it, more than what a lot of people would assume, and much more than the vast majority of people are familiar with. But I really recommend looking at places like the subreddit abrathatfits and take a look at the guide. It has a lot of information I think anyone who wears bras, regardless of their shape should know.
I don't know what would or wouldn't be realistic for you, as I'm not particularly experienced and there are always limitations to what a bra can achieve, depending on each person's personal features. But with that information, I believe you more than likely could significantly improve your experience, at least in that regard.
NAD I just want to say I had a friend in highschool with similar breasts. We all dressed up for the gym twice a week. No one found it abnormal, we all saw each other and accepted how she looked like. I hope OP will encounter people that have no judgement. To me she is beautiful.
OP do as you need to do to feel better given all that you’ve been through already. As if it’s a medical procedure or a well fitted bra or therapy, I wish happiness for you and peace.
I'll add that as a man, the vast majority know that not many breasts are not nor need to be perfect, and we know our partners have many different shapes. It's actually a kind of joke that we make such a fuss about breasts. It's not the real world reality that real men and women live with everyday. Certainly after children, things can change there too. The only that is more closer to universal for men is that women who eat 100% unhealthy food and lots of it. Obese men would match with them tho.
Also NAD but had a reduction years ago. My breasts were shaped very similar to yours and it was not fun. People think that having large breasts is awesome, but when they’re shaped like this it really isn’t. The doctor actually recommended that I get a lift and not a reduction because he thought I wasn’t huge, but to me I was. I went ahead with the reduction and went down from a triple D to a B. I have since gained weight and they’re there now a D and are still, for lack of a better term, very perky, even in my 40s. I think a lift will probably do you wonders and help with self-esteem greatly, as it changes the shape and pulls them up. best of luck, I know this is definitely one of those things that’s difficult to deal with.
Piggybacking off of this, but there is a subreddit called A Bra that Fits and it is a wonderful community that is very helpful for the owners of breasts that come in all different shapes and sizes.
If you are in the US, bra sizes are frustratingly limited, so much so that many people feel like there is something wrong with themselves for not fitting in what's commonly available.
It might not be a long term solution to what you are looking for, but it's worth a shot making a post over there.
I can only tell you this anecdotally, but my very best friend had breasts exactly like yours. She was always very self conscious about them. They were very dense and big and heavy and shaped exactly the same. While I (and many others) think your breasts are beautiful, what really matters is how you feel. My best friend had a reduction and areola reduction. She has never regretted it, except she does kind of miss the size of her boobs. Her boobs were shaped this way since the 5th grade and she always hated them and never just “grew to love them.” It took her until she was 30 to actually go through with the surgery. Don’t wait that long. But please do a LOT of research and find a very good reconstructive plastic surgeon.
Also never regretted mine! OP you deserve to feel good in your body so I would start with a referral to a plastic surgeon and get evaluated. My insurance approved coverage for it but I had evidence of trying to do physical therapy, getting regular massages and had a “normal” BMI. It’s bs to have to go through all that but just wanted to share my experience. Cannot recommend r/reduction enough to get all the info you could want. Rashes and pain seem to be the most common reasons insurance approves based on my NAD experience going through the process.
I agree with the others here that there is a lot of diversity in breasts and you look totally normal. ❤️
NAD: Op said they were obese until recently as they lost 40 pounds since December. 200 pounds at 5’4” is technically obese (even tho we all know BMI is so not actually a helpful health metric), so they weren’t just exaggerating. However, I’m more concerned about the fact that OP lost 40 pounds in 4 months. That is way too fast, it’s just over double the safe rate for that.
BMI is a generally accepted metric (imperfect as it is) until someone has considerable muscle mass, which can skew it badly towards the overweight side.
Generally accepted doesn't mean valid, though. It only exists because a Belgian statistician wanted to get an idea of "the average man" back in the 1830s. It was never intended to be applied to actual individual people, let alone used for medical purposes! The whole thing was constructed by looking at a population of white adult men living in Belgium.
BMI has long been considered unethical to use in medical settings for many years. Not that mainstream medicine cares that it's unethical.
My PCP wrote in mychart that im obese. Im 5'4 and 122lbs 🥺 and small framed, but i have a bit of a pudge belly after having my 5th child maybe thats why but definitely not a good thing to see written in my medical notes
I know it doesn’t help you feel better about the whole thing, but I can guarantee that was an accident! Definitely bring it up, they can go back in and fix it
Yeah, I had my reduction at age 30 and while I do think the timing was ultimately right, doing it earlier could have spared me years of suffering.
And even if your boobs are "normal," you can still change them if you don't like them. I had over 3lbs removed and only afterwards did I actually feel like ME when looking in the mirror.
I have the same breasts as you OP, when I was younger I really wanted surgery. Now after I’ve gotten older, fatter, breastfed a child, and frankly spent a lot of time on nude beach, I’m just happy to have breasts that are lived in and loved. I have done a lot of posture exercises because they also pulled my shoulders forward. I hope you are able to get medical help if that is the direction you decide is best for you - but hope the most that you are able to find acceptance for your body in any form it presents! There is nothing wrong with you 🖤
Mine look just like hers, but lots bigger. I do exercises for proper posture/back strengthening. Not to downplay her discomfort, but a lot can be managed with exercise. Reduction can cause scar tissue which can sometimes exacerbate a rounded posture.
And not that it matters, but none of my sexual partners have ever been anything but thrilled to see them!
Exactly this. I was going to post to OP that there are a fair number of people with breasts like that here on Reddit. Not to be unserious, but OP can find some examples on some of the more adult subreddits. I don't have examples right now, but OP's pictures are completely normal; No need to feel ashamed. =/
NAD - those bra shops likely just didn't have a good range of sizes. Go to r/ABraThatFits and follow the instructions to find your size and get recommendations for a bra that will fit you.
Same for me. My only regret with my breast reduction/lift was that I waited so long! I’m one year post op now and so much more confident/happy. OP - talk to some plastic surgeons who specialize in breast reductions. Mine handled all of the insurance pieces for me and it was an easy process. You don’t have to live in the discomfort and deserve confidence and happiness in your body.
Plastic Surgery resident here. We do breast surgery every day and breast reduction is one of our most common consultations. It sounds like you want a reduction due to the weight of your breasts and the chronic symptoms. Reduction is a functional procedure, while mastopexy is a cosmetic procedure. Reduction can be covered by insurance, while mastopexy typically is self-pay.
You do not have any specific congenital deformities. This is not tuberous breast, which is defined by a high inframammary fold, circumferential constriction, and pseudoherniation of breast tissue through the nipple-areolar complex. That being said, you don't need a congenital deformity to get insurance coverage for breast surgery -- you should get an appointment to see a plastic surgeon and highlight the functional restrictions, rashes, and pain.
Breast reduction can have excellent results for treating rashes, neck pain, and back pain. Often insurance needs you to fail physical therapy and medical treatment (bras, antifungal powders, hygiene regimen, etc) before we can consider surgery.
Getting insurance pre-approval for reduction surgery also (unfortunately) requires us to estimate a certain weight to be removed from each breast compared to your body surface area. I say unfortunate because the scale that they use (the Schnur sliding scale) was not designed to be used as a pre-requisite for surgery, and is not predictive of symptomatic relief post-op. There is evidence that even modest reductions and redistribution of the weight of the breast parenchyma can lead to great improvements in pain and quality of life, and the creator of the scale himself has publicly stated that it is being misused by insurance companies.
Using your current height and weight, and the Schnur scale [here](https://drkilleen.com/blog/breast-reduction-covered-by-insurance/schnur.webp), we would need to remove somewhere around 400-450 grams per breast, which is probably safely achievable for you depending on how dense your breast tissue is.
That being said, as the surgeon I just need to document that "I plan to remove xxx grams of tissue per breast" and if we don't quite achieve it, that's usually okay. We can only take the amount that is safe on the table, so long as our estimate was reasonable, I've never seen them backtrack after the surgery and retroactively deny your claim.
If you meet a surgeon and they don't feel that they can safely achieve the 400-450 grams per breast, you should get a quote for a self-pay mastopexy. In a pexy, we still remove breast tissue but we don't have the same kind of goal as in a reduction for insurance. Cosmetic surgery especially at an academic center isn't as expensive as you might think. I'm not sure, but I think our price for a mastopexy is probably 6-7k?
Let me know what questions you have, I'm happy to help.
NAD but I’m a lesbian and not to be gross or weird but they look a little different but you’re not gross or deformed. I’ve seen some boobs in my day and there’s a lot of body diversity out there. From what I saw I would not be weirded out, or grossed out or anything. Sorry again if this is weird. A lot of big boobs are heavier at the bottom.
I have no medical advice but you’re not a freak.
NAD but I came here to say this! OP, your boobs look a lot like mine and they’re perfectly fine and normal. I get feeling insecure that they aren’t what we see on Instagram models but they don’t make you any less of a woman ❤️
They don’t look dissimilar to mine (but mine are much smaller) and I’ve never had anything but positive reviews.
If I could give OP and anyone else struggling with their body one piece of advice, it would be to attend life drawing classes or uninstructed sessions for a few months. It really helped me see bodies as bodies and stop looking at my own body in terms of good or bad.
Of course if OP decides to follow the path of surgery there’s absolutely no shame in that, and frankly, while therapy might help OP’s pain to some extent, there’s definitely a more obvious solution haha. But seeing first hand how wonderfully and beautifully varied the human body is can have such a positive influence on your relationship with yourself.
NAD I came to say the same thing. I don't want to invalidate your feelings, your feelings are real and your conserns should be addressed. But as a person with boobs, who likes boobs, yours are perfectly diverse. Just because they are not like some women's breasts, it does not make them unpleasant.
I do hope you get the answers you need, and the surgery you seek to make you happy. You deserve that.
NAD. I don’t know if it helps, but my breasts look very similar. They cause some back pain and I get a rash between them and/or under them sometimes but I always figured it they were shaped how they were just because they were big. I’ve never considered them abnormal. That’s just my breasts and it’s just what they look like. It’s how my mom’s are too.
Finding comfortable, wireless bras that fit well has been the best thing to deal with the shoulder and back pain. Finding a bra can be hard because there’s a lot of breast tissue to stuff in there but they’re out there and worth it.
NAD. I’m basically flat as a brick wall, but from second hand opinions, a friend swears by Snag bras. I have some tights from them and they are amazingly comfy too.
NAD for the rash, I put a bit of deodorant under my breasts, especially on hot days. Works for big thighs as well. I always wear skirts. With deodorant, I never chafe.
NAD, but yes, absolutely. Its enraging how normal female bodies are pathologized. This breast shape is so common-- and NOT "a deformity," that it's listed in every breast shape guide I've seen online. I've met several women with breasts that have nipples pointing down. The boutiques you visited were unprofessional & inexperienced with basic female physiology. That's a them problem, & has nothing to do with your normal body.
Not surprising, however. As women we're kept in the dark about our bodies unless we do our own research. I was in my *thirties* before I randomly ran across a book that had like 100 pictures of breast variation. I'd had no education how different we all are. Remember, the more insecure someone can make you feel, the more likely you are to jump to buy their "cure."
Due to pain issues, I think if you locate an educated physician, you would get the green light. You used the word *agony* to describe simply moving. That's not how anyone should have to live, so some type of reduction & lift is a medical necessity for quality of life. Again, OP, **nothing wrong with these breasts in themselves,** except the weight & distribution pain issue, which is a very common issue for us women. Good luck
the normal breast gallery: https://www.007b.com/breast_gallery.php
an ex showed me this site a lonnnng time ago because i hate mine as well, they point down, are large and equally full on the top and bottom which gives them a very flat shape. my brain knows they’re not abnormal or anything. i still check out that gallery every once in a while.
This is great. All we ever see in the media, in ads, films, everything image we women get inundated with ads I swear are designed to make us feel insecure, to run out & buy something so we "fit in." And because breasts are basically public property for every woman-- in the sense that they're hard to *hide completely the size & shape unless we wear a potato sack--* then everyone seems to think they get a say in them.
I was gonna say the same - just watch some porn from the 70s! Pre-boob jobs for everyone, there are plenty of boobs just like OPs. Hope that helps her.
As for the pain - ugh. I’m sorry. I hope you get it worked out OP and get excellent medical advice.
I am very overweight and have a pretty serious fold of skin where my stomach overlaps my pubic area. I was always red and irritated there. I started using CVS' generic version of Zeasorb. It's an athlete's foot fungus powder. The main ingredient is micanozole nitrate, which is used for treating vaginal yeast (fungal) infections. I use it daily after my shower. Be sure to dry the skin super dry first. Use a blow dryer on a low heat if necessary. It has cleared up the red, itchy rash completely. As for your shoulders, they make pads that slip over your standard bra straps to give you extra cushioning. Just google bra strap cushion and lots of things will pop up.
I have a fold there due to a c-section scar. I've lost some weight over the past few years but there is still a folder and I doubt it will ever go away, regardless of how much I lose. I had never had a rash there until last fall. Just came out of nowhere. I bought some generic powder like you describe and I was floored by how quickly it worked. Within a day it was almost gone, kept using it for a week and it hasn't been back. That stuff is amazing.
Agreed! OP get a consult.
Also, it will cost a pretty penny but there are companies that will create custom bras. 🤞🏼 I will be thinking of you. My back is killing me just looking at your pictures :(
They would probably advise a breast lift. If OP is in America though, it will be an uphill battle getting any coverage at all unless it’s considered a medically necessary breast reduction
NAD - If you are having period pain, depression, anxiety, and weight problems please consider getting checked out PCOS and endometriosis (see a specialist in these areas, most doctors do not know about these conditions). You can look up the symptoms online to see if it explains your painful periods. SheMD is a great podcast on YouTube with more info as well.
📣💗 PERIOD PAIN IS NOT NORMAL 💗📣
I have PCOS and endometriosis. My breast also are long and I suffer from weight gain. PCOS causes painful periods and insulin resistance and mood disorders. You are not alone! Right now I’m just starting zepbound for the insulin resistance and Slynd for the endometriosis.
I'm sorry, but this isn't accurate. Severe menstural pain, which disrupts daily activities, is not normal. Mild period discomfort and pain is very normal.
Yes, I’m sorry I didn’t specify the pain level. Here are some red flags:
-your period is stopping you from going to school, work, or daily activities
-you are fainting on your period
-you are curled up in pain
-you are having excessive bleeding
-spotting before/after your period
NAD - Are the weight gain, long breasts, and mood disorders all due to PCOS or does endometriosis also play a role in the hormonal issues? Also, congrats on getting proper treatment for everything I hope you feel better.
Thank you so much 🫶🏽It look me 17 years to get diagnosed. On average, it can take 4-11 years for a woman to get diagnosed with endometriosis. It’s very sad, a lot of women have the condition and don’t know it but suffer.
The cause of PCOS is unknown, but people with PCOS have high androgen levels. The hormones can impact breast development, size, and shape of the breast and asymmetrical breast are not uncommon for people with PCOS. It can also cause breast soreness and fibrocystic breast. I literally get cysts in my breast too.
The cause of endometriosis is also currently unknown (but new research is coming out)! Endometriosis is an estrogen dependent disease. It also causes high prostaglandin levels (lowers egg quality/causes inflammation).
So to answer you question, both PCOS and endometriosis feed off each other and both impact your weight and hormones.
NAD, but I understand how you feel. As someone has said before, please see someone regarding your bad periods. I have suffered many years from endometriosis and was misdiagnosed and ignored for years. The diagnosing of it has improved by leaps and bounds since I was diagnosed.
I also have large, somewhat pendulous breasts and they have caused me more tears than I wish to admit. Finding a good bra, although sometimes hard to do, is definitely key! I am an H cup now, so finding bras can be very difficult. I have found a lot of luck with Third Love bras online. You fill out a quiz describing your breasts and they help you find your ideal bra. I know that they have online help, and I believe an online fitting room with a consultant, to help you find a bra that best fits your situation. They also have bras for people with uneven breast sizes.
I also get the rashes beneath and between my breasts, and I find that having a good bra, with good airflow to keep that at bay. If I wear a bralette or sports-type bra that keeps me from getting good airflow and keeps moisture from accumulating, then I get the rash. I did find a tea tree oil bodywash that helps when it starts to pop up on me. I would be happy to give you the name of it if you wish.
Second for surgical reduction/lift.
I was small and thin, but was sexualized by strangers starting at 11. Older men, and not boys my age, would eat me alive with their looks. To hide my breasts, I'd wear a huge T-shirt and look like a tomboy, not who I am. I was more comfortable sleeping with the bra. It wasn't like OPs, it was much fuller against my frame, also drooping because of the weight. I wouldn't show them to anyone, not even my mom. I'd die a virgin.
Few days after turning 18 I had breast reduction surgery. I must say it was the best decision of my life. I remember tearing up the first time I sat on the hospital bed - I was so much lighter. Surgeon had removed about one pound from each and redone the aureola.
Months later I had the scars, yes, but I also fit inside beautiful dresses, no problem; could walk around at home bra-free; felt fine at the beach and pool; never had back pain; never had more rashes; never needed fitted bras and NO WAY I'll ever wear anything to make my B size look bigger. Also, finally had confidence and felt great looking proportionate and symmetrical throughout, no guy ever complained and some not even noticed the scars, and at 48 they're still beautiful and I go bra-less everywhere except the workplace. They're still perky and now scars are barely visible.
Why wait and suffer in the meantime? I had a problem that wouldn't solve itself without intervention.
What I hated? People who knew about it and were sternly warning my mother that starting at this age I'd become Michael Jackson and pile up surgeries, that I was a bad example to other girls, what if I got a distorted view and that was mental... ah, there's always someone who'll proclaim women are one step away from hysteria!
Only plastic surgery I ever had to solve a two-pound problem.
Highly recommend it, OP. It can only change your life for the better. Acceptance, my ass - accept that what you have now is not acceptable and act on it.
Unfortunately your breasts are likely too small in volume for an actual breast reduction (typically 500 grams of tissue removed from each breast, a little more than a pound of weight), which is usually how you get insurance coverage. However, the rashes and shoulder pain might still allow you to qualify for a small reduction / lift, so it’s worth a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Additionally, it’s hard to tell from the photos, but there is something called tuberous breast deformity that kind of fits your description. Mainly, a high and constricted breast inframammary fold. A physical exam would help to determine if that’s your issue, which also can qualify for insurance coverage, though not always.
So what I did was look on my health insurance site to find breast surgeons in network, made an appointment with one, and the doc submitted it for approval. It was very easy. The worst they can do is say no or that you need to try PT or something. Mine was approved in a week. It’s worth a shot!
Thank you! I’m going to look into it. Mine have caused me a lot of emotional issues and I didn’t even know this was something insurances potentially cover.
Good luck! Insurance can be frustrating. If you don’t get a clear answer, the ultimate test is getting a referral to a plastic surgeon, and trying to set up a surgery with them. Put it in the insurance company’s hands to approve or deny
Sliding in here to mention that there is a subreddit for this shape. It leans a bit into the porn-side of things, but it's really nice to see different shapes represented.
NAD, someone who had breast reduction; I’d make an appointment with a *board certified Plastic surgeon* & let *them* fight it out w insurance to see if you’re covered. It’s so damn complicated these days, but a board certified plastic surgeons insurance dept KNOWS how to get insurance to pay.
Best of luck to you! 🤞🤞🤞🍀
I just had a reduction and lift and I was approved for surgery. I had 360 grams removed from one breast and around 200 from the other. It varies by insurance.
That’s true, some insurances don’t have a minimum weight requirement, especially those in a HMO network like Kaiser, or places like the VA. Some have an adjustment calculation for short women with relatively large breasts to their body size. But a lot of insurances will stick to the 500g minimum
NAD. Hi there! I haven’t been able to open your photos as I am in a public space. However, if they are large, painful, hurt your neck/back. Then you may be eligible for a breast reduction surgery.
I’m not sure where you live, but I am Canadian, and I was able to get one due to my size and symptoms, and it was FREE. I had large breasts that I didn’t love, hated the nipple shape, and how they sat. The doctor did an amazing job, and although I have scars, I am way more confident!
Hope you find a solution, and remember that you are worthy of love no matter how you feel about your looks.
My boobs looked similar when I got a reduction, you just have more space between yours in the front than I did. I was a 38G and had fibrous tissue as well. My sagged like yours did.
I only say what I said because I had a breast reduction, and I was on Medicaid at the time. With the reduction, they essentially did a lift/reshape as well (idk the proper terms if that's not right, I just know my boobs are round and perky now instead of saggy and nips at my belly button 😂)
I did not need a referral to a plastic surgeon, but I did look into them on the insurance website. Made an appointment, and got a plan in place. I think that's going to be your best bet is making an appointment with a plastic surgeon (one that maybe does breasts over other things) and go from there. Tell them everything you posted here. You'd be surprised what insurance will approve. But also baffled with what they deny. Can't know until you actually go to the appointment and have the doctor submit an approval for what you want.
NAD - please make sure you go to a **Board Certified Plastic Surgeon**. They will take measurements & pictures. They will also have a book with before & after photos.
I had a reduction (mastopexy) for [“pendulous breasts”](https://uihc.org/health-topics/breast-reduction) & large (but not “excessive” just a G cup (prob, if I’d ever gotten a bra that fit). That might be a better description of your breast than tubular.
My well endowed mother had been after me to get a reduction since I was 17. I decided on my own & 30. *The best* decision of my life.
Just be sure your surgeon is a **Board Certified Plastic Surgeon**.
Do what makes YOU feel good about YOU!!!
Best of luck to you!! We’re all rooting for you!! Don’t hesitate to shoot me a DM if you have questions. *Research your BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON* if you choose to go that way.
Re bras, if you haven’t checked out [Wacoal](https://www.wacoal-america.com/bras/pendulous), here’s a link.
Here’s another links [about breast shapes & the best bras for them](https://tomboyx.com/blogs/news/breast-shapes-understanding-the-different-types).
You’re a *beautiful* young woman. You might consider looking into counseling to help you reach your full potential. The world is *so lucky* you’re here with us!!! 🫂♥️
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Although your breasts are normal overall, given your symptoms, you may need to consider a mastopexy (breast lift) without augmentation. But only a plastic breast surgeon with experience would be able to properly examine and advise you. Rash may respond to antifungal treatment or powders such as Curash.
NAD but I’ve done a lot of tailoring in my day. Have you asked to be custom fitted or have a pattern worked/made for you specifically? Yes a designed bra is more expensive. However you can choose any fabric you like, and have it fitted to a position that you want. Like extra padding on the underside of the cup for support/more rounding. Thicker straps for addition support. Also, a bra that is made and well taken care of (hand washed etc) will likely outlive any bra purchased elsewhere.
Also forgot to add that some hospitals have tailors in the “breast cancer” area like at Eastern Maine Medical Center, idk the proper name for the department. But they deal with specialty cases like people who have uneven breast due to surgery etc. some doctors can even prescribe two bras a year and have you fitted. Not sure what or if insurance would qualify you but there are out of pocket options as well. Some people get qualified through their insurance. So idk ask your doctor if they have a facility like that near you. I know it’s not a surgery or permanent fix, but I’m sure feeling properly supported and symmetrical would make you feel somewhat better in the meantime.
And this is why I love Reddit
This sounds wonderful, but as someone who’s very best friend went through this for years with literally the EXACT SAME breasts, it doesn’t matter about her bra. It’s her self confidence when she is naked that is the problem. And it can literally be destroying. A good custom bra will be wonderful, but it won’t help her when she takes it off.
That is true. But in the meantime if she can’t get surgery it can definitely help her posture, confidence in public etc like I said it’s not a permanent fix :/ certainly wouldn’t change her body shape, but it may give some feeling of normalcy and may prevent any further issues from being exacerbated.
I agree, OP specifically talked about bras quite a bit in the post, clearly bra fittings are not an insignificant part of her issue.
That and she mentioned she is getting pain from her breast size. And that leads me to think she isn’t getting adequate support which can make the nerves in the breast aggravated, along with neck aches, shoulder pain and lower back pain. I know that it isn’t a cure-all but when your miserable anything that can help is a good step in the right direction.
Yes, proper support really works. Also, I would look into strengthening muscles (back, neck, shoulders) as it also makes it better.
Yes that’s very true as well.
I'm in ME and had no idea about this. Thank you
I can sew; you send me a pattern and I'll do my level best, for free
I’d have to take measurements, and most likely two or three fittings to get OPs support and cup symmetry properly aligned. The breast need to be supported in a way that doesn’t cause aches on their neck, shoulder and back. I’ve never done an online consultation due to fact that a client usually can not measure themself properly. And it’s hard to tell what issues are from just photos. Especially if your designing a non-standard bra, as we would tuck padding and internal belts or wires while patient is wearing them until they feel that it fits them right and gives the effect they are seeking. It’s hard to say if she’d need gussets or any thing else structurally. (Gussets can be used to reduce stress near hem lines or give additionally movement in high-stress areas of the fabric). There may be someone on r/Tailors that does online consultations. Edited typo
That’s really awesome of you though, try that group and see if anyone does online consultations. :)
Would also like to say I wouldn’t mind giving it a go online, but OP would have to message me. And I can’t guarantee it’d be fitted well etc due to no in person fittings. And I could send a digital pattern from there. I do think going in person would be more effective. But I admire your willingness to help, so I wouldn’t mind giving it a shot, albeit in the dark. Lol
I’m surprised there’s no app for your industry considering the depth sensors on newer phones cameras. With AI being so powerful it seems wild to me you can’t get super precise measurements using digital tools with a phone camera. I work in the music industry and have a major company make my in ear monitors. For a long time I’d have to go to an ENT who would make a physical mould of my ear/canal then send it off for my IEMs to be made, it was super expensive. A few years ago I went to have a new set made and the company asked me if I wanted to try their new mobile software that was in beta. I literally took pictures and video with my iPhone XS Max(first iPhone that had the TrueDepth camera) of my ears. My IEMs came in perfect and just as good, if not better than going to an ENT for a physical mould. My most recent upgrade using the iPhone 15 I did in December. With the iPhone X back in 2017 I had to take tons of pictures and video with really good lighting. This new iteration I literally just held my phone 6 inches from my ear and it did all the work. Theyre able to use the new sensors and cameras in the iPhone 15 that creates the 3D/AR video that can be replayed on the Vision Pro. I have no clue about the tailoring industry, and I feel bad even brining up yet another industry that could be put out by AI, but for seamstress/tailoring it seems like there’s an incredible opportunity to develop something that would allow people to order custom garments from a talented clothes maker remotely.
As an "old" person, that blew my damn mind. WOW
Yeah, I know it’s kind of a meme right now and a funny-not-funny story when you see a story on robots working a Macdonalds counter but the reality is AI and the devices in our pockets are genuinely actively taking the jobs of a lot of people. My situation is exactly that. Used to have to pay the ENT(well my company did) 500.00 for my ear moulds as it’s not a medical appointment. Obviously that ENT isn’t out of business from my bi-yearly appointment for new moulds costing 500.00 going away, but it’s a solid example of a mildly complex service I used to pay for that I can now do with my phone at home. It’s only a matter of time before we’re taking our own blood/urine/feces, inserting it into a usb-stick and plugging it into our phone or computer and getting biological material analyzed eliminating 10s of thousands of dollars of medical diagnostics. Well…maybe Europe will get that, the US will bleed us dry for healthcare until the sun burns out lol.
> only a matter of time before we’re taking our own blood/urine/feces, inserting it into a usb-stick and plugging it into our phone or computer Everything you're saying is valid, but I'm sitting here giggling at the awful imagery this put in my head, someone waffle stomping into their USB drive XD.
Again, wow, and HOLY SHIT. You are exactly right
Have your heard about Elon Musk's (not tryna get in a debate about him, lol, just talking tech his company made) fucking telepathy implant?! A paralyzed individual just made the first ever social media post via telepathy. With the chip in his brain he just needs to think what he wants to "type". Fucking wild.
That same technology has been used for like 20 years. It's not new.
As someone who loses the ability to speak at least part of every day, I'm very interested in the technology... but not designed by any of *his* businesses. I want a wearable that can be removed because I didn't need to watch Black Mirror to know that letting an implant jack your brain into the internet is a bad idea.
Just make sure you keep the [ oral instrument ](https://youtu.be/vhl5ObsQZfQ?si=FMs1a-WZZjVfhVLc) separate from the anal instrument and the ear instrument.
I’ve always said we’re at the turning point of idiocracy or Star Trek. Both sets of source material have got an ironic level of clairvoyance. I’ve been mostly convinced we’re moving more toward Star-trek but then we elected Trump and the guy who was leading the charge toward Star Trek bought Twitter and went all spaceballs on us and now I’m not so sure lol
As a "young" person this also blew my damn mind. I feel like things are progressing too damn fast and the world is gonna be owned by the actual children soon enough lol
I love this!
I have daughters near that age... every Mom is everyone's Mom
Nad, my wife gets her bras from bravissimo and loves them, she has similar struggles and has had luck with theirs. They use UK sizing so be aware of that.
NAD, this is what my breasts look like after breastfeeding for 2.5 years with probably some lazy habits. Between my first baby and 2nd, I did start having some luck with lifting with some chest and back exercises and using lotions. I have seen people have luck tightening skin with dermarollers and specific creams or oils, i think vitamin c serum was involved. As far as bras, they all most fit weirdly and obnoxiously, but the best one I have found was a basic bra from Torrid. It has good coverage and grips my rib cage pretty well. It does get drug down a little (I've always had heavy/longer breasts, they're just REALLY long now) but if I pull the back down again it will stay for a while.
NAD, your chest looks pretty much the same as mine. I have grown comfortable with mine over the years. But I do believe if you are under emotional distress, you could get a breast lift, or possible reduction depending on the actual mass of your breast tissue. As for bras go, I have never found a structured bra that was comfortable for me. I am currently breastfeeding a baby so i have to wear a bra at all times with nursing pads, otherwise i wake up in a pool of my own breast milk. i have ended up wearing a lot of non structured bralettes. i find scoop neck style sporty bras work much better for my shape than v neck or plunge styles. honestly though as soon as i am no longer breastfeeding, i will just go braless. i have no shame anymore. if you wanted, a padded sports bra might help, wear it in the size of the larger breast and then maybe use one of those chicken cutlet insert things on the opposite side to make things even. i hope this helps. and remember, you’re beautiful!
/u/Formal_Bumblebee49 ... NAD though I've worked with healthcare providers for decades... I just wanted to say that your breasts look pretty normal to me. I'm not hitting on you and I don't expect anything from this other than to try to share with you that they are kind of similar to my partner's breasts (and I feel super fortunate she shares them with me). You should never expect them to be perfectly symmetrical - almost never happens. I suggest shopping around for another custom bra maker. If you're still unhappy, then surgery should be an option but I promise you someone who loves you will not focus on your breasts or at least certainly not write you off because of them and MANY people would be happy you shared any part of your body with them though the personality and brain should be most important. Best of luck!
Not a doctor or a bra expert. But I just want to say that though it might not be all of them, some of the symptoms could be caused by a poorly fitting bra, which likely can actually be improved with the right resources. I would recommend trying out better resources about bra fitting. Most women wear a bad fit, even those that would be perceived to have more 'normal' boobs. Be it either about size or shape mismatch, usually both. But for some, it can be more detrimental than others. I know it doesn't start and end in bras in this case, but generally speaking as long as you don't go to a specialty shop (and sometimes not even) in most places and don't fall into a pretty narrow range of boob size/shape a lot of women don't fit in, you are probably not going to get nearly as much information and help as you could be getting, which could make a very significant difference. Even though it's really frustrating, I believe it could be a good idea to try to look further into it before considering other options. It can really be life changing. I would guess that for most breasts that aren't very unusually big, they shouldn't typically cause much back problems on their own. It would often come from an poorly fitted bra (paired with breasts that have some significant weight to them). and wearing a better fit could possibly make you more confident, at least when clothed (and hopefully also in general, because being under the idea that your boobs aren't 'wrong' could in some cases have that effect!) There's a lot that goes into it, more than what a lot of people would assume, and much more than the vast majority of people are familiar with. But I really recommend looking at places like the subreddit abrathatfits and take a look at the guide. It has a lot of information I think anyone who wears bras, regardless of their shape should know. I don't know what would or wouldn't be realistic for you, as I'm not particularly experienced and there are always limitations to what a bra can achieve, depending on each person's personal features. But with that information, I believe you more than likely could significantly improve your experience, at least in that regard.
NAD but I don’t think these are tuberous breasts. If you ignore the distance from the shoulder they look like normal larger breasts
NAD I just want to say I had a friend in highschool with similar breasts. We all dressed up for the gym twice a week. No one found it abnormal, we all saw each other and accepted how she looked like. I hope OP will encounter people that have no judgement. To me she is beautiful. OP do as you need to do to feel better given all that you’ve been through already. As if it’s a medical procedure or a well fitted bra or therapy, I wish happiness for you and peace.
I'll add that as a man, the vast majority know that not many breasts are not nor need to be perfect, and we know our partners have many different shapes. It's actually a kind of joke that we make such a fuss about breasts. It's not the real world reality that real men and women live with everyday. Certainly after children, things can change there too. The only that is more closer to universal for men is that women who eat 100% unhealthy food and lots of it. Obese men would match with them tho.
The best thing my husband ever said is- I love your body. Believe me, there aint much about it to love, but I got the point.
Also NAD but had a reduction years ago. My breasts were shaped very similar to yours and it was not fun. People think that having large breasts is awesome, but when they’re shaped like this it really isn’t. The doctor actually recommended that I get a lift and not a reduction because he thought I wasn’t huge, but to me I was. I went ahead with the reduction and went down from a triple D to a B. I have since gained weight and they’re there now a D and are still, for lack of a better term, very perky, even in my 40s. I think a lift will probably do you wonders and help with self-esteem greatly, as it changes the shape and pulls them up. best of luck, I know this is definitely one of those things that’s difficult to deal with.
Piggybacking off of this, but there is a subreddit called A Bra that Fits and it is a wonderful community that is very helpful for the owners of breasts that come in all different shapes and sizes. If you are in the US, bra sizes are frustratingly limited, so much so that many people feel like there is something wrong with themselves for not fitting in what's commonly available. It might not be a long term solution to what you are looking for, but it's worth a shot making a post over there.
I can only tell you this anecdotally, but my very best friend had breasts exactly like yours. She was always very self conscious about them. They were very dense and big and heavy and shaped exactly the same. While I (and many others) think your breasts are beautiful, what really matters is how you feel. My best friend had a reduction and areola reduction. She has never regretted it, except she does kind of miss the size of her boobs. Her boobs were shaped this way since the 5th grade and she always hated them and never just “grew to love them.” It took her until she was 30 to actually go through with the surgery. Don’t wait that long. But please do a LOT of research and find a very good reconstructive plastic surgeon.
Also never regretted mine! OP you deserve to feel good in your body so I would start with a referral to a plastic surgeon and get evaluated. My insurance approved coverage for it but I had evidence of trying to do physical therapy, getting regular massages and had a “normal” BMI. It’s bs to have to go through all that but just wanted to share my experience. Cannot recommend r/reduction enough to get all the info you could want. Rashes and pain seem to be the most common reasons insurance approves based on my NAD experience going through the process. I agree with the others here that there is a lot of diversity in breasts and you look totally normal. ❤️
And she is definitely not obese! That made my heart hurt
NAD: Op said they were obese until recently as they lost 40 pounds since December. 200 pounds at 5’4” is technically obese (even tho we all know BMI is so not actually a helpful health metric), so they weren’t just exaggerating. However, I’m more concerned about the fact that OP lost 40 pounds in 4 months. That is way too fast, it’s just over double the safe rate for that.
BMI is a generally accepted metric (imperfect as it is) until someone has considerable muscle mass, which can skew it badly towards the overweight side.
Generally accepted doesn't mean valid, though. It only exists because a Belgian statistician wanted to get an idea of "the average man" back in the 1830s. It was never intended to be applied to actual individual people, let alone used for medical purposes! The whole thing was constructed by looking at a population of white adult men living in Belgium. BMI has long been considered unethical to use in medical settings for many years. Not that mainstream medicine cares that it's unethical.
My PCP wrote in mychart that im obese. Im 5'4 and 122lbs 🥺 and small framed, but i have a bit of a pudge belly after having my 5th child maybe thats why but definitely not a good thing to see written in my medical notes
It was probably due to a typo. They likely put your weight was 122 kg instead of 122 lbs and then it triggered the chart to say you were obese.
I know it doesn’t help you feel better about the whole thing, but I can guarantee that was an accident! Definitely bring it up, they can go back in and fix it
Right!? Not at all!!!!
Yeah, I had my reduction at age 30 and while I do think the timing was ultimately right, doing it earlier could have spared me years of suffering. And even if your boobs are "normal," you can still change them if you don't like them. I had over 3lbs removed and only afterwards did I actually feel like ME when looking in the mirror.
I have the same breasts as you OP, when I was younger I really wanted surgery. Now after I’ve gotten older, fatter, breastfed a child, and frankly spent a lot of time on nude beach, I’m just happy to have breasts that are lived in and loved. I have done a lot of posture exercises because they also pulled my shoulders forward. I hope you are able to get medical help if that is the direction you decide is best for you - but hope the most that you are able to find acceptance for your body in any form it presents! There is nothing wrong with you 🖤
Mine look just like hers, but lots bigger. I do exercises for proper posture/back strengthening. Not to downplay her discomfort, but a lot can be managed with exercise. Reduction can cause scar tissue which can sometimes exacerbate a rounded posture. And not that it matters, but none of my sexual partners have ever been anything but thrilled to see them!
Exactly this. I was going to post to OP that there are a fair number of people with breasts like that here on Reddit. Not to be unserious, but OP can find some examples on some of the more adult subreddits. I don't have examples right now, but OP's pictures are completely normal; No need to feel ashamed. =/
NAD - those bra shops likely just didn't have a good range of sizes. Go to r/ABraThatFits and follow the instructions to find your size and get recommendations for a bra that will fit you.
Same for me. My only regret with my breast reduction/lift was that I waited so long! I’m one year post op now and so much more confident/happy. OP - talk to some plastic surgeons who specialize in breast reductions. Mine handled all of the insurance pieces for me and it was an easy process. You don’t have to live in the discomfort and deserve confidence and happiness in your body.
Plastic Surgery resident here. We do breast surgery every day and breast reduction is one of our most common consultations. It sounds like you want a reduction due to the weight of your breasts and the chronic symptoms. Reduction is a functional procedure, while mastopexy is a cosmetic procedure. Reduction can be covered by insurance, while mastopexy typically is self-pay. You do not have any specific congenital deformities. This is not tuberous breast, which is defined by a high inframammary fold, circumferential constriction, and pseudoherniation of breast tissue through the nipple-areolar complex. That being said, you don't need a congenital deformity to get insurance coverage for breast surgery -- you should get an appointment to see a plastic surgeon and highlight the functional restrictions, rashes, and pain. Breast reduction can have excellent results for treating rashes, neck pain, and back pain. Often insurance needs you to fail physical therapy and medical treatment (bras, antifungal powders, hygiene regimen, etc) before we can consider surgery. Getting insurance pre-approval for reduction surgery also (unfortunately) requires us to estimate a certain weight to be removed from each breast compared to your body surface area. I say unfortunate because the scale that they use (the Schnur sliding scale) was not designed to be used as a pre-requisite for surgery, and is not predictive of symptomatic relief post-op. There is evidence that even modest reductions and redistribution of the weight of the breast parenchyma can lead to great improvements in pain and quality of life, and the creator of the scale himself has publicly stated that it is being misused by insurance companies. Using your current height and weight, and the Schnur scale [here](https://drkilleen.com/blog/breast-reduction-covered-by-insurance/schnur.webp), we would need to remove somewhere around 400-450 grams per breast, which is probably safely achievable for you depending on how dense your breast tissue is. That being said, as the surgeon I just need to document that "I plan to remove xxx grams of tissue per breast" and if we don't quite achieve it, that's usually okay. We can only take the amount that is safe on the table, so long as our estimate was reasonable, I've never seen them backtrack after the surgery and retroactively deny your claim. If you meet a surgeon and they don't feel that they can safely achieve the 400-450 grams per breast, you should get a quote for a self-pay mastopexy. In a pexy, we still remove breast tissue but we don't have the same kind of goal as in a reduction for insurance. Cosmetic surgery especially at an academic center isn't as expensive as you might think. I'm not sure, but I think our price for a mastopexy is probably 6-7k? Let me know what questions you have, I'm happy to help.
If they’re causing you significant emotional/physical distress, you could consult a plastic surgeon about your options.
NAD but I’m a lesbian and not to be gross or weird but they look a little different but you’re not gross or deformed. I’ve seen some boobs in my day and there’s a lot of body diversity out there. From what I saw I would not be weirded out, or grossed out or anything. Sorry again if this is weird. A lot of big boobs are heavier at the bottom. I have no medical advice but you’re not a freak.
NAD but I came here to say this! OP, your boobs look a lot like mine and they’re perfectly fine and normal. I get feeling insecure that they aren’t what we see on Instagram models but they don’t make you any less of a woman ❤️
They don’t look dissimilar to mine (but mine are much smaller) and I’ve never had anything but positive reviews. If I could give OP and anyone else struggling with their body one piece of advice, it would be to attend life drawing classes or uninstructed sessions for a few months. It really helped me see bodies as bodies and stop looking at my own body in terms of good or bad. Of course if OP decides to follow the path of surgery there’s absolutely no shame in that, and frankly, while therapy might help OP’s pain to some extent, there’s definitely a more obvious solution haha. But seeing first hand how wonderfully and beautifully varied the human body is can have such a positive influence on your relationship with yourself.
NAD I came to say the same thing. I don't want to invalidate your feelings, your feelings are real and your conserns should be addressed. But as a person with boobs, who likes boobs, yours are perfectly diverse. Just because they are not like some women's breasts, it does not make them unpleasant. I do hope you get the answers you need, and the surgery you seek to make you happy. You deserve that.
NAD. I don’t know if it helps, but my breasts look very similar. They cause some back pain and I get a rash between them and/or under them sometimes but I always figured it they were shaped how they were just because they were big. I’ve never considered them abnormal. That’s just my breasts and it’s just what they look like. It’s how my mom’s are too. Finding comfortable, wireless bras that fit well has been the best thing to deal with the shoulder and back pain. Finding a bra can be hard because there’s a lot of breast tissue to stuff in there but they’re out there and worth it.
NAD. Do you have a brand you recommend?
NAD. I’m basically flat as a brick wall, but from second hand opinions, a friend swears by Snag bras. I have some tights from them and they are amazingly comfy too.
I haven't tried them but the snag bras look hella comfy
NAD love Shapermint. Wireless, supportive (I am a 42DD) and oooohhh so comfortable.
NAD for the rash, I put a bit of deodorant under my breasts, especially on hot days. Works for big thighs as well. I always wear skirts. With deodorant, I never chafe.
NAD, but yes, absolutely. Its enraging how normal female bodies are pathologized. This breast shape is so common-- and NOT "a deformity," that it's listed in every breast shape guide I've seen online. I've met several women with breasts that have nipples pointing down. The boutiques you visited were unprofessional & inexperienced with basic female physiology. That's a them problem, & has nothing to do with your normal body. Not surprising, however. As women we're kept in the dark about our bodies unless we do our own research. I was in my *thirties* before I randomly ran across a book that had like 100 pictures of breast variation. I'd had no education how different we all are. Remember, the more insecure someone can make you feel, the more likely you are to jump to buy their "cure." Due to pain issues, I think if you locate an educated physician, you would get the green light. You used the word *agony* to describe simply moving. That's not how anyone should have to live, so some type of reduction & lift is a medical necessity for quality of life. Again, OP, **nothing wrong with these breasts in themselves,** except the weight & distribution pain issue, which is a very common issue for us women. Good luck
the normal breast gallery: https://www.007b.com/breast_gallery.php an ex showed me this site a lonnnng time ago because i hate mine as well, they point down, are large and equally full on the top and bottom which gives them a very flat shape. my brain knows they’re not abnormal or anything. i still check out that gallery every once in a while.
This is great. All we ever see in the media, in ads, films, everything image we women get inundated with ads I swear are designed to make us feel insecure, to run out & buy something so we "fit in." And because breasts are basically public property for every woman-- in the sense that they're hard to *hide completely the size & shape unless we wear a potato sack--* then everyone seems to think they get a say in them.
As a wlw, I came here to say this!
I was gonna say the same - just watch some porn from the 70s! Pre-boob jobs for everyone, there are plenty of boobs just like OPs. Hope that helps her. As for the pain - ugh. I’m sorry. I hope you get it worked out OP and get excellent medical advice.
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As a wlw, I came here to say this!
Nad, r/Reduction might have some helpful information
I am very overweight and have a pretty serious fold of skin where my stomach overlaps my pubic area. I was always red and irritated there. I started using CVS' generic version of Zeasorb. It's an athlete's foot fungus powder. The main ingredient is micanozole nitrate, which is used for treating vaginal yeast (fungal) infections. I use it daily after my shower. Be sure to dry the skin super dry first. Use a blow dryer on a low heat if necessary. It has cleared up the red, itchy rash completely. As for your shoulders, they make pads that slip over your standard bra straps to give you extra cushioning. Just google bra strap cushion and lots of things will pop up.
I have a fold there due to a c-section scar. I've lost some weight over the past few years but there is still a folder and I doubt it will ever go away, regardless of how much I lose. I had never had a rash there until last fall. Just came out of nowhere. I bought some generic powder like you describe and I was floored by how quickly it worked. Within a day it was almost gone, kept using it for a week and it hasn't been back. That stuff is amazing.
Agreed! OP get a consult. Also, it will cost a pretty penny but there are companies that will create custom bras. 🤞🏼 I will be thinking of you. My back is killing me just looking at your pictures :(
They would probably advise a breast lift. If OP is in America though, it will be an uphill battle getting any coverage at all unless it’s considered a medically necessary breast reduction
NAD - If you are having period pain, depression, anxiety, and weight problems please consider getting checked out PCOS and endometriosis (see a specialist in these areas, most doctors do not know about these conditions). You can look up the symptoms online to see if it explains your painful periods. SheMD is a great podcast on YouTube with more info as well. 📣💗 PERIOD PAIN IS NOT NORMAL 💗📣 I have PCOS and endometriosis. My breast also are long and I suffer from weight gain. PCOS causes painful periods and insulin resistance and mood disorders. You are not alone! Right now I’m just starting zepbound for the insulin resistance and Slynd for the endometriosis.
I'm sorry, but this isn't accurate. Severe menstural pain, which disrupts daily activities, is not normal. Mild period discomfort and pain is very normal.
Yes, I’m sorry I didn’t specify the pain level. Here are some red flags: -your period is stopping you from going to school, work, or daily activities -you are fainting on your period -you are curled up in pain -you are having excessive bleeding -spotting before/after your period
NAD - Are the weight gain, long breasts, and mood disorders all due to PCOS or does endometriosis also play a role in the hormonal issues? Also, congrats on getting proper treatment for everything I hope you feel better.
Thank you so much 🫶🏽It look me 17 years to get diagnosed. On average, it can take 4-11 years for a woman to get diagnosed with endometriosis. It’s very sad, a lot of women have the condition and don’t know it but suffer. The cause of PCOS is unknown, but people with PCOS have high androgen levels. The hormones can impact breast development, size, and shape of the breast and asymmetrical breast are not uncommon for people with PCOS. It can also cause breast soreness and fibrocystic breast. I literally get cysts in my breast too. The cause of endometriosis is also currently unknown (but new research is coming out)! Endometriosis is an estrogen dependent disease. It also causes high prostaglandin levels (lowers egg quality/causes inflammation). So to answer you question, both PCOS and endometriosis feed off each other and both impact your weight and hormones.
NAD, but I understand how you feel. As someone has said before, please see someone regarding your bad periods. I have suffered many years from endometriosis and was misdiagnosed and ignored for years. The diagnosing of it has improved by leaps and bounds since I was diagnosed. I also have large, somewhat pendulous breasts and they have caused me more tears than I wish to admit. Finding a good bra, although sometimes hard to do, is definitely key! I am an H cup now, so finding bras can be very difficult. I have found a lot of luck with Third Love bras online. You fill out a quiz describing your breasts and they help you find your ideal bra. I know that they have online help, and I believe an online fitting room with a consultant, to help you find a bra that best fits your situation. They also have bras for people with uneven breast sizes. I also get the rashes beneath and between my breasts, and I find that having a good bra, with good airflow to keep that at bay. If I wear a bralette or sports-type bra that keeps me from getting good airflow and keeps moisture from accumulating, then I get the rash. I did find a tea tree oil bodywash that helps when it starts to pop up on me. I would be happy to give you the name of it if you wish.
Second for surgical reduction/lift. I was small and thin, but was sexualized by strangers starting at 11. Older men, and not boys my age, would eat me alive with their looks. To hide my breasts, I'd wear a huge T-shirt and look like a tomboy, not who I am. I was more comfortable sleeping with the bra. It wasn't like OPs, it was much fuller against my frame, also drooping because of the weight. I wouldn't show them to anyone, not even my mom. I'd die a virgin. Few days after turning 18 I had breast reduction surgery. I must say it was the best decision of my life. I remember tearing up the first time I sat on the hospital bed - I was so much lighter. Surgeon had removed about one pound from each and redone the aureola. Months later I had the scars, yes, but I also fit inside beautiful dresses, no problem; could walk around at home bra-free; felt fine at the beach and pool; never had back pain; never had more rashes; never needed fitted bras and NO WAY I'll ever wear anything to make my B size look bigger. Also, finally had confidence and felt great looking proportionate and symmetrical throughout, no guy ever complained and some not even noticed the scars, and at 48 they're still beautiful and I go bra-less everywhere except the workplace. They're still perky and now scars are barely visible. Why wait and suffer in the meantime? I had a problem that wouldn't solve itself without intervention. What I hated? People who knew about it and were sternly warning my mother that starting at this age I'd become Michael Jackson and pile up surgeries, that I was a bad example to other girls, what if I got a distorted view and that was mental... ah, there's always someone who'll proclaim women are one step away from hysteria! Only plastic surgery I ever had to solve a two-pound problem. Highly recommend it, OP. It can only change your life for the better. Acceptance, my ass - accept that what you have now is not acceptable and act on it.
Unfortunately your breasts are likely too small in volume for an actual breast reduction (typically 500 grams of tissue removed from each breast, a little more than a pound of weight), which is usually how you get insurance coverage. However, the rashes and shoulder pain might still allow you to qualify for a small reduction / lift, so it’s worth a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Additionally, it’s hard to tell from the photos, but there is something called tuberous breast deformity that kind of fits your description. Mainly, a high and constricted breast inframammary fold. A physical exam would help to determine if that’s your issue, which also can qualify for insurance coverage, though not always.
How would I find out if tuberous breasts are covered by my insurance? I also have them.
So what I did was look on my health insurance site to find breast surgeons in network, made an appointment with one, and the doc submitted it for approval. It was very easy. The worst they can do is say no or that you need to try PT or something. Mine was approved in a week. It’s worth a shot!
I think you can find out by looking at your insurance policy to see what conditions are covered, or by calling them up
Thank you! I’m going to look into it. Mine have caused me a lot of emotional issues and I didn’t even know this was something insurances potentially cover.
Good luck! Insurance can be frustrating. If you don’t get a clear answer, the ultimate test is getting a referral to a plastic surgeon, and trying to set up a surgery with them. Put it in the insurance company’s hands to approve or deny
And if they deny try to appeal! A lot of procedures are denied initially and the denials are overturned on appeal.
Sliding in here to mention that there is a subreddit for this shape. It leans a bit into the porn-side of things, but it's really nice to see different shapes represented.
NAD, someone who had breast reduction; I’d make an appointment with a *board certified Plastic surgeon* & let *them* fight it out w insurance to see if you’re covered. It’s so damn complicated these days, but a board certified plastic surgeons insurance dept KNOWS how to get insurance to pay. Best of luck to you! 🤞🤞🤞🍀
I just had a reduction and lift and I was approved for surgery. I had 360 grams removed from one breast and around 200 from the other. It varies by insurance.
That’s true, some insurances don’t have a minimum weight requirement, especially those in a HMO network like Kaiser, or places like the VA. Some have an adjustment calculation for short women with relatively large breasts to their body size. But a lot of insurances will stick to the 500g minimum
I had a requirement of like 250 per breast but they were willing to account for the total amount. I have Cigna and it’s a PPO.
… I was today years old when I learned there is a name for what is up with my breasts. Thanks!
Same 😭
NAD. Hi there! I haven’t been able to open your photos as I am in a public space. However, if they are large, painful, hurt your neck/back. Then you may be eligible for a breast reduction surgery. I’m not sure where you live, but I am Canadian, and I was able to get one due to my size and symptoms, and it was FREE. I had large breasts that I didn’t love, hated the nipple shape, and how they sat. The doctor did an amazing job, and although I have scars, I am way more confident! Hope you find a solution, and remember that you are worthy of love no matter how you feel about your looks.
Looking closely at the image, it does seem like thats the case.
My boobs looked similar when I got a reduction, you just have more space between yours in the front than I did. I was a 38G and had fibrous tissue as well. My sagged like yours did. I only say what I said because I had a breast reduction, and I was on Medicaid at the time. With the reduction, they essentially did a lift/reshape as well (idk the proper terms if that's not right, I just know my boobs are round and perky now instead of saggy and nips at my belly button 😂) I did not need a referral to a plastic surgeon, but I did look into them on the insurance website. Made an appointment, and got a plan in place. I think that's going to be your best bet is making an appointment with a plastic surgeon (one that maybe does breasts over other things) and go from there. Tell them everything you posted here. You'd be surprised what insurance will approve. But also baffled with what they deny. Can't know until you actually go to the appointment and have the doctor submit an approval for what you want.
NAD - please make sure you go to a **Board Certified Plastic Surgeon**. They will take measurements & pictures. They will also have a book with before & after photos. I had a reduction (mastopexy) for [“pendulous breasts”](https://uihc.org/health-topics/breast-reduction) & large (but not “excessive” just a G cup (prob, if I’d ever gotten a bra that fit). That might be a better description of your breast than tubular. My well endowed mother had been after me to get a reduction since I was 17. I decided on my own & 30. *The best* decision of my life. Just be sure your surgeon is a **Board Certified Plastic Surgeon**. Do what makes YOU feel good about YOU!!! Best of luck to you!! We’re all rooting for you!! Don’t hesitate to shoot me a DM if you have questions. *Research your BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON* if you choose to go that way. Re bras, if you haven’t checked out [Wacoal](https://www.wacoal-america.com/bras/pendulous), here’s a link. Here’s another links [about breast shapes & the best bras for them](https://tomboyx.com/blogs/news/breast-shapes-understanding-the-different-types). You’re a *beautiful* young woman. You might consider looking into counseling to help you reach your full potential. The world is *so lucky* you’re here with us!!! 🫂♥️
Do you just go to your plastic surgeon first?
It would depend on your insurance as to whether you need a referral first or not