I have fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction and lift, is this possible? I have 36 DDD and am 21 years old

Question

I have two large concerns. The first being that last time I went to my OBGYN she felt my breasts and told me that I had fibrocystic breasts I am wondering how that will effect my surgery. Secondly my concern is that I am a recovering alcoholic and have been sober for 2 years. I previously had a dependence on prescription pills and am very nervous to be administered them again, is the pain so unbearable that post op narcotics are absolutely necessary? Please any answers will help

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Based on your description, you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. The fibrocystic nature breast will not contraindicate or complicate the procedure. Pain control will likely be achievable through nonnarcotic medications if this is of concern to you and your plastic surgeon.  It will be important for you to select your plastic surgeon carefully and communicate your goals carefully as well.  In my practice, I find the use of goal photographs very helpful during this communication process.  You may also find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more about breast reduction surgery. Best wishes; hopefully, you will be very pleased with the outcome of the procedure performed.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Breast reductions can be performed in patients that have fibrocystic disease.  As for the dependency issues, often patients need some form of pain medications post-op. Non-narcotic meds can be used.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Fibrous breasts would not contraindicate breast reduction. In terms of the narcotics, I would recommend that you speak with the physician who has managed your recovery.  This is also important information in terms of the results of pretesting as well as anesthesia management.  There is obviously pain involved but what is crucial is having a support system to get you through the first few days. Medication is not required for more than a fee days. Some patients can make it through because they are strongly motivated but others do not feel this way. It is very individuated.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Fibrocystic breasts are a common finding during breast reduction and should not influence the procedure. You can have a great result in spite of it. It is unusual though to have a fibrocystic breast at your age. Chemical dependence is another issue which should be discussed with your surgeon, with strategies to in place to manage discomfort after.

J. Garrett Harper, MD · Answer

As far as the breast reduction, fibrocystic breasts will not interfere with a safe and beautiful reduction.  With regards to your other inquiry, the pain is there and real, but few of my patients really think that it's really bad.  There is a long acting pain medicine called Exparel that can be injected into your breasts and incisions that gives you upwards of 72 hours of relief- it's been a game changer for my patients.  This should allow you to go with something less habit forming for pain control like Tylenol or Ultram.

I have fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction and lift, is this possible? I have 36 DDD and am 21 years old

Answers (10)

Answer: Fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction.

Answer: Fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction.

Answer: I applaud your maturity

Answer: I applaud your maturity

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I have fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction and lift, is this possible? I have 36 DDD and am 21 years old

Answers (10)

Answer: Fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction.

Answer: Fibrocystic breasts and am looking to have a reduction.

Answer: I applaud your maturity

Answer: I applaud your maturity

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.