Is my BMI too high for a breast reduction?

Question

I'm wanting an honest opinion from a professional. I'm 18 years old. I'm 5'7 308 lbs. I have a size 40K breast. My BMI is 48.4, is this too high to have the surgery or putting me at risk if I do have it?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Hi,

Your BMI is too high to undergo breast reduction surgery and will put at high risk for complications.  You need to lose weight before having surgery.  I believe a breast reduction will be greatly beneficial.  However, At 19yrs old your breasts may or may not be done growing.  Once you have established you are no longer growing, then begin making appointments with reputable Board Certified Plastic surgeons that are experts in this area. Please be aware that there is a more current technique that preserves nipple sensitivity and the ability to breast feed (unlike the anchor method). I have attached a short video to show you what can now be achieved- No vertical scar and no need for breast implants.

Best wishes and kind regards,

Dr. Gary Horndeski

Edmund Ek, MBBS, FRACS (Plast) · Answer

I would recommend achieving a healthier BMI before surgery. This will lessen the chances of complications and a difficult recovery. It will also maximise your chances of a good result. I would meet with a specialist plastic surgeon to discuss a safe goal weight for a smoother surgery process.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

Given how young you are I suspect you would tolerate the surgery very well. It is best to meet with a PS and he/she can then give you the best idea of what to expect.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Breast reduction is perfect for people who are experiencing difficulties because of the weight of their large breasts, as I’m sure you’re experiencing. While weight loss is a prerequisite for many cosmetic surgeries like liposuction and tummy tucks, there are studies that show that people with higher BMI don’t necessarily have a higher risk for complications when it comes to breast reduction (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18626352). Plus, reducing the size of your breasts might even motivate you to lose weight.

To better evaluate your condition, consult a reputable board certified plastic surgeon.

To better evaluate your condition, consult a reputable board certified plastic surgeon.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast reduction surgery is not out of the question but there is higher risk of healing problems. May be better to focus on a medical weight loss plan.

Anup Patel, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

To avoid complications and ensure your safety you should aim to lose weight before considering the surgery. Once you are at a healthy BMI you should consult with a plastic surgeon on getting a reduction. Give yourself some time to lose the weight and see the changes in your body as well since your desired outcomes from surgery may change.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Your BMI is too high. Your weight has to go down before considering surgery.  Best of luck............

Richard Bloom, MBBS (Hons), FRACS · Answer

Hi there and thanks for posting,Certainly at your current BMI you will have an increased anaesthetic risk as well as increased risk of wound healing problems.It is also unlikely that you would achieve a very aesthetic breast outcome at your current weight.With a BMI of 48, I think your primary focus should be on weight loss rather than surgery. Weight loss will almost certainly reduce your breast weight to some degree but the other health benefits will be dramatic.Best wishes this will be a big challenge for you.Richard

Jack Peterson, MD · Answer

There are two primary concerns at your present BMI.1)You are at significantly increased risk for post operative complications, particularly wound healing issues.2) your aesthetic result would be much better the closer you are to your ideal body weight. Your breasts will change significantly with weight loss. If you get a breast reduction now, and then lose weight, you would likely need a revision procedure .

Joseph L. Hill Jr., MD · Answer

At bra size 40 K, I suspect you have common symptoms related to enlarged breasts such as neck and back pain, shoulder grooving from your bra strap, and periodic rashes beneath your breasts.  I would also expect you to obtain relief of these symptoms after a breast reduction.  Studies have shown that surgical site complications such as wound healing issues and infections as well as life threatening complications such as a d.v.t. or pulmonary embolism occur more commonly with a B.M.I. above 30 and certainly one over 35.  While you may be able to locate a Plastic surgeon to perform a breast reduction on you with a B.M.I. of 48.4, it may not be in your best interest given your high risk.

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