I Have Pectus Excavatum: How Can I Tell How Severe It Is?

If you or your child have noticed a dip or sunken appearance in the middle of the chest, the first question that usually comes to mind is: “How serious is this?” Pectus excavatum is a chest wall condition that often becomes more noticeable during the teenage years. It can affect not only physical health but also self-confidence—especially for teens. The good news is that pectus excavatum comes in different levels, and there are clear ways to understand its severity.

What Is Pectus Excavatum?

Pectus excavatum is a condition where the breastbone (sternum) grows inward, creating a sunken chest appearance. In some cases, it is only a cosmetic concern. In others, it may be associated with shortness of breath, reduced exercise tolerance, chest discomfort, or emotional distress. For mothers, this often raises concerns about long-term health. For teens, it can impact body image and social confidence.

How Do I Know the Severity?

Pectus excavatum is commonly classified into mild, moderate, and severe levels.

• Mild:The chest indentation is visible but shallow. It usually does not cause physical symptoms and does not interfere with daily activities. In many cases, it is mainly an aesthetic concern.

• Moderate:The indentation is more noticeable and may increase during growth spurts in adolescence. Some individuals experience fatigue during physical activity, posture issues, or increasing self-consciousness about their appearance.

• Severe:The chest depression is deep and may place pressure on the heart and lungs. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, reduced endurance, and significant emotional impact. Medical evaluation is strongly recommended at this level.

Signs You Can Observe at Home

• Is the chest indentation becoming deeper over time?

• Is there shortness of breath during exercise?

• Are the shoulders rounded forward or posture affected?

• Does your child—or do you—try to hide the chest with clothing or avoid certain activities?

Why a Professional Evaluation Matters

While observation is helpful, only a healthcare professional can accurately assess the severity. A specialist may use physical examination and imaging techniques to determine whether monitoring or treatment options should be considered.

Remember, pectus excavatum is more common than many people think—and you are not alone. With early awareness, proper evaluation, and the right guidance, both parents and teens can navigate this journey with confidence and clarity.

Treatment Options

Treatment options depend on how severe the condition is, the person’s age, and whether it affects daily life. In many cases, non-surgical methods such as vacuum bell therapy can be an option, especially for adolescents whose chest walls are still flexible and growing. More severe cases, or those that place pressure on the heart or lungs and cause noticeable symptoms, are usually assessed by a specialist for possible surgical treatment. This is why early diagnosis plays a key role in choosing the most appropriate treatment path.

You can contact info@pectuslab.com for any questions.