Wearing a bra that fits properly is essential. Not only can the correct bra flatter the contours of your body, but it can provide support that makes going about your day much more comfortable. Conversely, wearing the wrong bra can cause significant discomfort – particularly if the straps dig into your shoulders. In addition to irritation and painful indentations, persistent digging can cause chronic soreness, scarring, and, in extreme cases, nerve damage.
If you notice that your bra straps are digging into your shoulders, consider one of these potential causes:
- Your straps are too tight. Many women make their bra straps extremely tight in order to look more “lifted,” leading to a bad fit. Remember that most of a bra’s support comes from the band, not the straps. Rather than tighten the straps to the point where you’re in pain, it may be time to loosen them or invest in a new bra.
- You’re wearing the wrong size. A band or cup size that is too small for your bust can cause a bra to dig into your shoulders. Keep in mind that bra sizes can vary considerably between clothing brands; for instance, a 34C from one brand may be a 36B or a 32D in other brands. As such, breast enhancement professionals often recommend that women be measured every six months to a year to ensure they’re wearing the right size.
- Excess tissue is causing enlarged breasts. Many American women suffer from disproportionately large breasts, an issue that can present both cosmetic problems and physical discomfort. If your overly large breasts make it difficult for you to find bras that fit properly, you may be a candidate for breast reduction surgery. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS, is renowned for his ability to customize each breast enhancement procedure to meet the unique needs of each patient. For examples of his exceptional surgical results, visit our breast reduction gallery.
If you have additional questions about finding the right bra or achieving your ideal bustline, feel free to contact us today. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Zemmel can determine whether breast reduction or another course of action is your ideal choice.