Ah, wasn't sure if it was something to do with it being a velcro binder or what.
I had the same problem for a bit -- kind of a claustrophobic feeling -- which is why I know I could never tolerate a full-length binder because it's worse around my stomach. For a little bit getting the "right" arrangement, so to speak, helped until I got used to it, but as far as that that's about all I can offer.
Love Boat actually has a return policy which includes wrong sizes; maybe you could shoot them an e-mail kind of explaining the situation, give them your measurements, and see what they think? Their customer service is really good. I can vouch for it from experience.