Rashes underneath the breasts can be very uncomfortable. These rashes can manifest as red, raw, or cracked skin in the inframammary (breast) fold, and can feel itchy, hot, or painful. Worse yet, they are typically a recurrent problem and do not always respond to over-the-counter solutions. These rashes can be especially prevalent in women with overly large breasts.
Considered one of the most common issues faced by women with breasts that may be too large for their body frame, rashes under the breasts are most often the result of:
- A yeast infection
- Heat
- Trapped moisture
- Intertrigo (a condition characterized by two areas of skin rubbing against each other)
When left untreated, these rashes tend to worsen, sometimes leading to the development of infection or sores. While certain remedies, such as thoroughly washing and drying under the breasts and applying specialized creams or ointments, can mitigate some of the discomfort, some women for whom this is a long-lasting issue may be candidates for breast reduction surgery. A professional breast reduction surgeon can reduce excess breast skin and tissue to limit contact with the fold. In addition to easing rashes, breast reduction surgery is regularly performed to combat neck, back, and shoulder pain that may be caused by breasts that are too large, as well as to create a more proportionate bustline and flatter the physique.
If you are suffering from these types of rashes and feel that excessively large breasts may be contributing to the concern, you are encouraged to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS. Known for his patience and compassion, Dr. Zemmel customizes each breast reduction surgery to meet the functional and aesthetic needs of each patient.