I'm 17 and I Have Saggy 32E Breasts - Should I Get a Reduction or Lift?

Question

I'm not a big girl, i only weigh 130. They are saggy. should i get a breast lift or a breast reduction even tho i'm not very old?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you and congratulations on your decision to undergo #breast reduction.  Many women that elect to have #mammoplasty, also will require a lift. The lift is part of the procedure at no extra cost. A #lift is necessary to ensure proper placement of the #nipples and can allow for areola reduction if needed. One thing to keep in mind is that at your age, your breasts may still be developing. Because of this, you may experience continued breast growth even after surgery. The best advise I can give you is to schedule a consultation with a Board Certified plastic surgeon who will be qualified to evaluate your current breast shape and volume. They will also be able to explain all of your options. Good luck!

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Breast reduction can certainly help you, and this can be performed with a lift. However you should understand that your breasts are probably still developing and will continue to do so for the next couple of years. Please see an experienced board certified plastic surgeon for a medical consultation to find out if this is right for you. During the consultation, you'll discuss the risks associated with the procedure so you can make an informed decision.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

It sounds like you would benefit from a breast reduction. When a reduction is done the breasts are lifted at the same time, ie you get both at once. Reducing your breasts so they are lighter, better shaped and more proportional to your bodys size can be very helpful in preventing future problems common with large breasts, ie back and neck pain, bra strap grooving and fungal rashes beneath your breasts.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

IT sounds as if you need BOTH a breast reduction AND a lift. This will achieve an improvement in your breast shape as well as reduce the size from an E.

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

You seem to be an ideal candidate for a properly performed breast reduction. Breast reduction and breast lift are very similar procedures, both should result in an esthetically pleasing lifted breast. In your case, 32 E cup breasts on your size body frame will result in musculoskeletal problems. In my practice I routinely operate on patients in your age group with such presentation. The long term outcome to your health and to you breast appearance in very good.

	You might find it helpful to review my publication on advanced techniques in breast lift and breast reduction. Please see the web link below.

Robert W. Kessler, MD, FACS · Answer

You are off to a good start by asking your question here.

	The fact is  the reduction and lift  have the same scar pattern. A reduction will remove volume and decrease the size of your breast. The lift will maintain your volume and restore it to a more youthful position.
	 

	Factors to consider are shoulder grooving from the bra, neck and back pain and the presence of rashes under the breasts. These are criteria woman and insurance companies use to determine the need of a reduction verses a lift.

	I would also like to know that there has been no significant change or growth of the breasts over the last 6 months.

	Seek out a board certified plastic surgeon in your area for help with this decision. 

	 

	I hope this was helpful and good luck.

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

At 17 years of age, with significant breast ptosis or sagging, I would consider evaluating your skin for a possible elastin deficiency. There are genetic conditions, such as the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that predispose to loose sagging skin and may lead to recurrent drooping and disappointment if implants are used. Do consult with an experienced, well trained surgeon before jumping into a procedure.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

There is not an age limit for breast reduction or breast lift surgery. It is best to wait
at least 1 year from the time that your breast finishes growing. This will
allow for optimal correction, and minimizes the possibility that you need a 2nd
surgery soon afterwards. In addition to being a candidate, you will need to be
able to have parental consent and provide informed consent (or have your
parent's provide informed consent on your behalf). When you are ready, consult
in person with 3 experienced and expert board certified plastic surgeons to
understand your options.

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

Based on your measurements you seem to need a breast reduction. BUT I would definitely meet with a plastic surgeon and look at before and after to determine if you will be okay with the incisions. There are many issues to resolve and it is best done with both you and another family member present.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	It sounds like you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery.

	As  you think  about  breast reduction surgery make sure you do your homework and understand the potential risks and complications associated with  the procedure.  Unsatisfactory scarring is  one of the potential complications. Make sure you also understands that further surgery may be necessary in the future (for example if the breasts were to grow in size again).

	On the other hand, breast reduction surgery is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform and I think that for the right teenager (enough symptoms) it may be an excellent option (regardless of the age).
	Sometimes breast  reduction surgery is covered through health insurance. The best way to obtain insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery involves some &ldquo;hoops&rdquo; to jump through. The more documentation you have (for example, from your primary care doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor etc.) the better when it comes to obtaining insurance &ldquo;authorization&rdquo; for the procedure. This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization.

	Make sure you're  working with a well-trained/experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. 

	I hope this helps.

I'm 17 and I Have Saggy 32E Breasts - Should I Get a Reduction or Lift?

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