What causes pectus carinatum (pigeon chest) and how to deal with it?

Generally speaking, chest flaring refers to a condition where the chest shape becomes widened or expanded. This type of chest deformity may be caused by improper bra wearing, poor posture, obesity, rib fractures, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other factors. Treatment options include radiofrequency skin tightening, breast augmentation surgery, mastopexy (breast lift), and medication therapy, which should be conducted under the guidance of a physician. It is recommended to visit a qualified hospital and undergo these procedures under medical supervision to ensure effectiveness and safety. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Improper Bra Wearing

Wearing bras with cups that are too small or straps that are too loose for prolonged periods may fail to provide sufficient support to the breasts, possibly leading to chest flaring. It is recommended to choose bras of appropriate size, ensuring the cups fully cover the breasts. Under medical guidance, radiofrequency skin tightening may also be used as a treatment option. This method stimulates collagen regeneration using radiofrequency currents, thereby tightening the skin and improving the appearance of chest flaring. The general reference cost for radiofrequency skin tightening is 1,000-3,000 RMB per session, with noticeable improvement typically observed within 1-3 months. However, possible side effects include skin burns and pigmentation.

2. Poor Posture

Standing with a hunched back or sitting for prolonged periods may lead to chest muscle laxity, causing symptoms of chest flaring. Maintaining proper sitting and standing posture, keeping the back straight, is important. Breast augmentation surgery can also be considered under a physician's guidance. This involves implanting prosthetics or injecting autologous fat to increase breast volume and projection, thereby improving chest shape. The general reference cost for breast augmentation surgery is 20,000-100,000 RMB per session, with visible improvement usually occurring within 1-3 months. Possible complications include infection and bleeding.

3. Obesity

Excessive fat accumulation in the chest area may cause the chest to appear bulky and widened, resulting in chest flaring. It is important to control diet and reduce fat accumulation through activities such as brisk walking or jogging. Under medical advice, mastopexy (breast lift) can also be considered. This procedure involves removing excess skin and tissue, reshaping the breast gland, and repositioning it higher to improve chest appearance. The general reference cost for mastopexy is 10,000-50,000 RMB per session, with noticeable improvement typically seen within 3-6 months. Possible complications include hematoma and skin necrosis.

4. Rib Fracture

Trauma may lead to rib fractures. A rib fracture can alter the structural support of the sternum and ribs, potentially causing chest flaring. This condition is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Under medical guidance, medications such as Qi Li Gu Zhe Pian (herbal medicine for bone healing), Shang Ke Jie Gu Pian, and Xian Ling Gu Bao capsules may be used for treatment.

5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is primarily associated with long-term smoking, air pollution, and other factors. COPD causes airway obstruction and breathing difficulties, which may lead to chest muscle relaxation and thoracic deformities, resulting in the symptoms described above. Symptoms may include coughing, sputum production, and shortness of breath. Under medical supervision, medications such as terbutaline sulfate tablets, acetylcysteine granules, and ipratropium bromide aerosol may be used for treatment.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and performing appropriate chest-strengthening exercises to enhance pectoral muscle strength can help alleviate symptoms of chest flaring.