Can a breast lift be performed on a 16 year old?

Question

My breasts have been asymmetrical and saggy since they started developing. It has been 2 years since I have seen any further development in my breasts. I would also like an areola reduction. Is this possible at my age?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  I hope that these answers help in making 
your decision.  It is not uncommon to have the symptoms that you 
describe, especially in teenagers once her breasts begin to fully 
develop.  It may be that you have juvenile hypertrophy, in which case, 
your symptoms may worsen and breast continue to grow and droop over 
time.   However, if you are not having any symptoms and desire the 
procedure to improve the shape, it would be wise to consider this after 
your breasts have fully developed.  At which time, the shaping could be 
performed more accurately. Once one begins to have the symptoms that you state 
above, consideration for a surgical procedure to ameliorate your 
symptoms, assist with self esteem, and allow you to get back to physical
 activities in your youth should be done.  Given your symptoms,  you 
would be an ideal candidate.  You must first discuss with your parents 
and pediatrician, and then consulting with a plastic surgeon for 
evaluation and examination to assist you in deciding if this would be 
the right thing for you.  Your surgeon will also go over what to expect 
as well as the risks and benefits of the procedure.  Overall, your 
symptoms should be ameliorated almost immediately and hopefully give you
 more self confidence and an increased activity level.  Your breasts may
 still continue to grow over the next several years, but it is certainly
 reasonable to consider this at this age with the issues that you are 
having.  Many surgeons will recommend awaiting until full breast 
development prior to consideration, but discuss your concerns.  I hope 
that this helps!  Good luck with your decision!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Yes,
at breast lift can be performed on a 16 year old provided you have parental
consent.  I recommend a new technique
called The Ultimate Breast LiftTM. 
This technique reshapes your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness,
elevates them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your
cleavage.  The weight of the breast is
transferred to the underlying muscle resulting in long term stability.  This technique avoids the ugly vertical scars
of the traditional technique, maintains nipple sensation and the ability to
breast feed.  I never recommend the Wise
pattern, which use an anchor shaped incision, results in nipple numbness and
the inability to breast feed.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It is certainly possible if you have reached maturity and have parental consent.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

With permission from your parents and after a full consultation with a plastic surgeon, you may find a breast lift will achieve the shape and areola reduction you are seeking.  Be sure to check before and after photos to get an idea of possible outcomes.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

I definitely feel that you could be a candidate for a breast lift at 16 provided you are otherwise healthy.  You must know however that your breasts mat develop further over the next few years and this may lead to you needing a second surgery.   As long as you understand that, I think you could definitely have a breast lift.  Good luck.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Yes, breast lift can be performed to lift, make areola smaller, and correct asymmetry.  You will need to go to the doctor with a parent or legal guardian.

To be sure, see two or more board
certified and experienced plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete
evaluation.

I hope this helps.

Ralph M. Rosato, MD · Answer

I have never been presented with this concern in over 21 years of practice.  I did perform liposuction on a 17 year old that had very asymmetrical breast. Her father was a physician and there was very little scarring and her symmetry was restored.  I am not sure a 16 year old is mature enough to make this decision. The scars are permanent. I personally would not do the surgery untill they were 18 years old.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to perform breast lifting on a 16-year-old. However, whether it is the best timing to do so and whether the particular teenager will accept the downsides ( such as scarring)  will depend on the specific patient.  Hopefully you have your parents' support as you consider your options. Educate yourself about the potential risks/complications associated with the surgery including the potential need for additional surgery for a multitude of reasons. Best wishes.

James A. Hoffman, MD · Answer

If you think you have finished developing and are not happy with your breast shape or areolas you certainly can discuss this with an experienced Plastic Surgeon. You will need your parents consent and one of them will need to go to the consultation with you. A breast lift can give a nice shape and reshape the areola also. Be sure to see lots of pictures of other women who have had this done as there will be scars on the breast to accomplish a lift.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

I would recommend that you see a plastic surgeon to see what all is involved, see your Ob-Gyn to get their opinion as to whether your breasts are fully developed, and really think about the scar implications of a lift and the fact that future pregnancies will probably "un-do" your lift. Of course your parents will have to consent for you.

Can a breast lift be performed on a 16 year old?

Answers (14)