Can You Have Plastic Surgery to Reduce Back Pain?

The short answer is yes.

In our last post, we discussed how a tummy tuck procedure can help correct poor posture and ease back pain by strengthening and supporting the spine.

But an abdominoplasty isn’t the only plastic surgery to reduce back pain.

In fact, one of the most obvious ways to decrease pain in the back is by reducing the load on the front. Hence, the breast reduction.

The Drawbacks of Large Breasts

Preference in breast size is very personal. Some women are quite comfortable with an A-cup, while others feel more at home with something larger. That’s part of the reason breast augmentation exists.

But when breasts that are too ample wreak havoc on a woman’s quality of life, she may seek out a plastic surgeon to find relief for her chronic back pain and other large-breast-related health issues.

In some cases, patients are young women who developed large breasts during puberty. This is not an ideal time for this to occur because not only are the bones in the spine and neck not yet developed enough to support that kind of weight – but neither are the muscles in the shoulders and the back.

Other times, patients are older women whose breasts didn’t return to their original size after having children. Instead, they may be heavy and pendulous, causing discomfort.

Whatever the case, women with large breasts often have to deal with many negative repercussions. They have difficulty buying clothes that fit well and may even avoid certain social situations. They also avoid exercising because larger breasts can impede what others regard as regular movements in an exercise regimen.

In addition, they’re subject to uncomfortable rashes between and under their breasts.

Furthermore, the weight of their breasts pulling on bra straps can cause the skin to breakdown in their shoulders and create scabs, scars, and ridges there. But it’s usually back, neck, and shoulder pain that brings them to the plastic surgeon’s office.

How Is Back Pain Experienced?

The type of back pain and degree to which women experience it can vary. For some, the pain is dull, achy, and chronic, and remains mostly in the lower back.

For others, it’s more of a stinging or burning pain that moves from the low back to the backs of the thighs. From there it may travel to the lower legs or feet. The pain is often increased after prolonged sitting or standing.

In some cases, there may be muscle spasms or tightness in the back, pelvis, and hips. And some women report tingling or numbness in the hands or along the sciatic nerve.

The pain can start suddenly, or slowly develop over time. Sometimes it will come and go, but seems to get worse over time. But at the end of the day, women who seek plastic surgery for back pain have reached a point where they can no longer enjoy certain things because of it.

Breast reduction surgery is the ideal option for them.

What to Expect from Breast Reduction Surgery

When you make the decision to get a breast reduction, you’ll consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who will ensure that you fully understand the surgery, follow-up care, and the expected outcome. This will garner the most positive experience.

During the procedure, the surgeon will remove extra skin and excess breast tissue to make the breast more proportionately sized. He or she will then reposition the breast and the nipple and perform a breast lift to give your breast a fuller and more contoured appearance.

In addition, a long-acting pain medication is inserted between the pectoral muscles in the chest to ease you into recovery.

The procedure is outpatient, so you go home the same day. You’ll be prescribed a combination of pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxers which will help shorten the recovery time.

For the first six weeks, you’ll need to wear a support bra both day and night. But you’ll be able to return to work and your regular activities in two to three weeks. And in just three months, you’ll be able to shop for your favorite bra in your new cup size!

Is Plastic Surgery to Reduce Back Pain an Option for You?

If you find that excess fatty tissue around the abdomen or in your breasts is putting too much strain on your back, then plastic surgery to reduce back pain might be right for you.

Contact us today to talk with one of our highly skilled plastic surgeons. We’ll discuss your options so that you can find relief and get back to your life with new confidence and vigor.