How much weight should I lose before a breast reduction?

Question

I am 17 years old, and I am currently a JJ-cup. I am 5'5" and weight 180lbs. I want a D cup. I am about 60 pounds overweight, however my frame doesn't look obese (besides for my breast). I am looking at getting my reduction surgery after I graduate high school (so, in a year). Most things I read about the procedure mention that you should be "physically fit" before the surgery. I have a hard time working out due to my breast size. How much weight should I lose before my surgery?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you so much for this interesting and important question.Trying to lose weight after a surgical procedure its a very delicate matter, since in many cases a restrictive diet can alter some compensatory mechanisms that occur normally in response to surgical procedure and necessary for proper recovery.Therefore a very restrictive diet can cause problems, such as anemia, electrolyte disturbances, decreased protein, etc ... retarding the healing process and damaging the surgery.On the other hand an adequate postoperative diet, will help you to heal more efficiently and the scars look better.For these reasons, if your purpose is to lose weight after surgery, i highly recommend have a support with a nutritionist, so you can achieve the desired goal, in the most healthy way, without harming the plastic surgery performed.Considering your current weight and the average time spent in surgery , I recommend doing surgery how you are now.Best regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on deciding to pursue a breast reduction.  I normally tell patients that it is always best to reach their goal weight prior to elective surgery. This weight needs to be one where you feel comfortable at, and can maintain long-term. This will give you the best results.  In your situation, however, it sounds as if your breasts are likely impeding you from being able to be fully active.  As long as you are otherwise healthy, you may benefit from a reduction sooner than later in order to afford you the opportunity at further weight loss. See a board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person examination. They will best be able to guide you on the road to reduction.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; it is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.Although the breast reduction surgery may help you at this point, if you are contemplating the weight loss then it would be in your best interest to have the breast surgery after you have  reached your long-term stable weight (If possible). This will improve your chances of achieving your goals and minimize the chances that revisionary breast surgery (to treat “sagging” for example) will be necessary afterwards.  You may find the attached link, dedicated to breast reduction surgery concerns, helpful to you as you learn more.Best wishes.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Ideally, you should be within 15 pounds of your goal weight.  However, if you are having trouble exercising with the size of your breasts, then you should get the surgery to help.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you want to lose weight, then lose it before surgery so you can see how your breasts responded to the weight loss.  Losing weight after surgery may cause the reduced breasts to shrink and change shape.

How much weight should I lose before a breast reduction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Weight loss

Answer: Weight loss

Answer: Breast reduction and weight

Answer: Breast reduction and weight

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How much weight should I lose before a breast reduction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Weight loss

Answer: Weight loss

Answer: Breast reduction and weight

Answer: Breast reduction and weight

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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.