I'm only 18 yrs old, but my breasts are already up to a 34L (UK sizing). How long should I wait for a Breast Reduction? (photo)

Question

i have an average body type but my breasts make me look bigger than i really am and it has caused a lot of teasing in school and even around family (im the only one above a D cup), and ive become really self-conscious of myself. besides the emotional toll theyve caused, the physical is even worse. they are incredibly heavy to the point where i have constant shoulder and back pain. im worried that they will just keep growing. How long should i wait before a reduction is a possibility?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

With the enormous size of the breasts. I can't imagine that a breast reduction would not be a life altering experience. I think you would be an excellent candidate for breast reduction.

Frank Lista, MD · Answer

Hi there, I'm sorry to hear that you've been subjected to teasing and pain due to your breast size. Your breasts may continue to grow into your early twenties, and even afterwards with lifestyle changes (ex. pregnancy, weight gain). Given the physical and emotional ramifications you've experienced, you can certainly explore a breast reduction with a board-certified plastic surgeon. While a reduction won't ensure that your breasts won't continue to grow, many patients report a significant improvement to their physical and mental state following the procedure.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

You may be suitable for the surgery right now. Please see an experienced board certified plastic surgeon to find out.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I recommend a new technique called The Ultimate
Breast ReductionTM.Your
breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the
chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.The breasts can be reduced to the size
appropriate for your body.This
technique avoids the ugly vertical scars of the traditional technique,
maintains nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed.The weight of the breast is transferred to
the underlying muscle resulting in immediate pain relief.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast reductions are wonderful procedures and some of my happiest patients are my breast reduction patients. At 18 years of age, you should be just fine getting the procedure done.  Many patients experience immediate relief of neck and back pain. Even more, this procedure is typically covered by insurance!  Thanks for your question.Dr. SchreiberBaltimore plastic surgeon

Lisa J. Peters, MD · Answer

There's not a rule regarding how young is too young for breast reduction surgery, but your breasts should have finished growing first.  At 18 years old, your breasts are likely finished growing with the exception of changes that may occur as a result of weight gain and pregnancies.  Your photo clearly shows that your breasts are quite large and it's not surprising that you're having shoulder and back pain as a result.  I suggest that you see a plastic surgeon now to discuss the procedure and the pros and cons of having the surgery in the near future.  Having a breast reduction can be life-changing and many women say their only regret is that they didn't do it sooner.Best wishes

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the physical and psychosocial problems your disproportionately large breasts are causing you. It is probable that you are dealing with juvenile breast hypertrophy along with the physical and psychosocial consequences of this diagnosis. In other words, the breasts are too large for your frame causing  both physical and psychological distress. 
In my practice, timing of breast reduction surgery is determined on a case-by-case basis. It is not too early to do your homework and learn as much as possible  about  breast reduction surgery and the potential risks and complications associated with  the procedure.   For example, 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 “hoops” 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 “authorization” for the procedure.This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. When the time is right,  seek consultation with well-trained/experienced board-certified plastic surgeons.

I hope this,  and the attached link, helps.

Jason Mussman, MD · Answer

Excellent question.  From your description and photo, you sound like an ideal candidate for a breast reduction.  Most women experience a profound increase in quality of life after a breast reduction.  Quality of life studies have quantified the average gain in quality of life after a breast reduction as equal to 5.2 life years of perfect health.  18 years old is not too early to seek breast reduction.  If you are experiencing pain now, then now is the time to seek the help of a board certified plastic surgeon.  Good luck!

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

How long you wait for reduction will depend on many things such as discomfort, breast size, and an opportunity in your school or work schedule. Certainly your breast is quite large and a consultation now would serve you well to prepare for a breast reduction.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

At least go see a Plastic Surgeon for opinions on having a breast reduction surgery in the near future....

I'm only 18 yrs old, but my breasts are already up to a 34L (UK sizing). How long should I wait for a Breast Reduction? (photo)

Answers (11)

More Breast Reduction Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (11)

More Breast Reduction Questions

How many grams are in a 32DDD? (photo)

How to convince parents that a breast reduction is medically necessary? (16 year old)

Will insurance company cover my DD breast reduction?

Will a Breast Reduction lower blood pressure (after surgery benefit) if they are extremely large breasts?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS