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Breast Reduction for a 16-year-old Girl?

Can breast reduction be performed for a 16-year-old girl? Overall I am not huge, but I am trying to lose some weight, and my 38G breast size makes exercising difficult. I have lost some weight, but none of it has come from my breasts. Is surgery a good option? I feel like I have tried all the other recommendations, and I am in a lot of pain as well as constant discomfort. I have done a lot of research on this subject, and I am seriously considering it. Thoughts?

Asked 29 months ago by hejhej in Kansas
Sort 12 expert answers by:
+1

Breast Reduction for Teenager

It sounds like you are dealing with juvenile breast hypertrophy along with the physical and psychosocial consequences of this diagnosis. In other words, the breasts are too large for the frame causing both physical and psychological distress. It sounds like you have done your homework and understand the potential risk and consultations associated with breast reduction surgery. You also understand that further surgery may be necessary in the future (for example if the breasts were to... more
Tom J. Pousti, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast Reduction Surgery in Teens

Breasts generally grow until the early 20s. You could do the breast reduction surgery now but you may need a revision in the near future.
Kris M. Reddy, MD
West Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction for young patients

Patients today have many great options in breast reduction surgery. Young patients should understand that their breasts will continue to grow and change at least until their early 20s. For this reason and to make sure that the patient understands the seriousness of the surgery, it is not recommended to perform a breast reduction surgery before the age of 18. Your best bet is to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has a great deal of experience in breast reduction and will be... more
B. Pat Pazmino, MD
Miami Plastic Surgeon
+1

OK to have breast reduction at 16.

Hi. 1) In New York City, we see a number of girls like you, and I know how much distress you are in. You really have 2 choices. 2) You can have a breast reduction now (which I probably recommend). But then it is likely that you will need another one when you are in your twenties if your breasts are still growing. 3) Or you can wait until your breasts have stopped growing for sure, and then you will need only one operation.
George J. Beraka, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction in a teenager

I have performed breast reduction surgery in teenagers before and the youngest was 14. That girl came to me from London, with among the most enormous breasts I had ever seen. The public health service there would not allow her to have surgery because of her age but this yound lady had a severe medical (and psychological) problem because of the size of her breasts. Like you, she could not excercise etc. So in summary, you should discuss your concerns with your sugeon who can evaluate you... more
Darrick E. Antell, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

16 yr old and breast reduction

Breast reduction surgery in a 16 year old is not uncommon.  If you are of adult size and menstrutating regularly, and no longer growing, then having a breast reduction is OK. If you are stil growing, then I would probably wait a bit longer.
Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast Reduction in Young Patients

From what you describe I think that you would be a good candidate for breast reduction and your insurance company should cover this if you truly are a 38G. Large breasts make it difficult to exercise and lose weight and in such cases as your especially with back and neck pain, it is warranted to have the reduction as long as you feel your breasts have stopped growing. Good luck.
Farbod Esmailian, MD
Orange County Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction at 16 or for teenager is possible, though there are tradeoffs

I have answered this question many times on this site, though as a young patient you deserve our time and response. I really want you to look up my profile on the RealSelf site and look at the questions about breast reduction. I cannot discourage you from pursuing further weight loss and fitness, and although it is unlikely to reduce the size of your breast you will feel better and look better and have done something significant for yourself. Breast reduction will reduce the bulk and... more
Peter E. Johnson, MD
Des Plaines Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction for teenagers

Very large breasts can be found in teens. This condition actually has a couple of names: "Juvenile breast hypertrophy" and "breast gigantism." If you are stable in your growth, and you have very large breasts, then you should consider a breast reduction procedure. You need to seek out a good plastic surgeon. This should be coverable by your insurance. Good luck.
Sirish Maddali, MD
Portland Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction For teen age women

I would like to know your height and weight, but  it would appear tha you have gigantomastia.  Despite your age You may  soon become a "breast cripple" if something isn't done to readjust your body balence.
Barry H. Dolich, MD
Bronx Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction for 16-year-old

This is younger than the recommended age but if you are developing serious social issues related to your large breasts it certainly is possible. The principal risk of doing surgery at this age is that your breasts may have another growth phase. This would require a touch up or a redo of your original surgery. If you're willing to take that chance, and the likelihood that you would not be able to breast feed in the future, go ahead with your planning.
Donald Kress, MD
Frederick Plastic Surgeon
+1

Breast reduction in a 16 year old

This will depend primarily on your growth curve and if your body weight and height have stabilized which it should at this point in time. Your next step is to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.
Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
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