Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger?

Question

I'm 17, started my period at 10 (going on 11), and I was very top heavy because I was a heavy kid. I lost around 50 pounds between 15 and now and I am very unpleased with my breasts. They have gotten much smaller, they're literally sagging, I have no cleavage (never really have anyways), and I hate them. I do take birth control, so I don't know why that hasn't helped. A lot of women in my family have large breasts only on my moms side. My mom said when she was 18 she grew a whole cup size. Help?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Your breasts may continue to grow, however losing so much weight may unfortunately has had a negative effect on their shape and size. Sagging tends to get worse with age and further weight fluctuations. Keep in mind that if your breasts do get bigger, they may get saggier as well.

Edwin C. Pound, III, MD · Answer

Is "unpleased" a word?  I don't know.  I'll have to ask my kids.  Anyway, your breasts are subject to change based on a lot of things - weight loss/gain, periods, pregnancy.  Some women can lose 4-5 pounds and all of it is in their breasts.  Some can lose 20-30 pounds and none of it is in their breasts.  You know how your body reacts to weight gain/loss better than anyone.  Breast implants will add volume to your breasts but they will do nothing to correct sagging.  For that, you would probably need a breast lift.  The downside to a breast lift is that it requires more scars on the breast.  Finally, although it is kind of an arbitrary number, most women have reached their adult breast proportions by the time they are 18 (some earlier, some later).  When you are ready to address your concerns about your breasts, I would suggest seeing a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you in person and discuss your options more specifically with you.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

In the occasional female breast growth may begin significantly later than the onset of puberty. Time will tell. Breast augmentation is a very popular solution for women who want larger breasts.

Michael B. Tantillo, MD · Answer

Your menarche was 6-7 years ago and iit seems as though your breasts have not gained glandluar tissue in some time.  Likely your breasts will not grow in the future; your pediatrician is the best person to ask, however.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

It is recognized that women can have breast development until about age 22. We also know that weight gain is associated with more rapid breast development, so we recommend exercise and lean body mass to reduce or slow breast development for those who fear being too big. Your weight loss might have caused laxity in the skin envelope which you like the least of all. Focus on a 'best' weight and fitness and a healthy you and when you are of age there are cosmetic options.

Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger?

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Answer: Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger

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Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger?

Answers (7)

Answer: Breast growth after 17

Answer: Breast growth after 17

Answer: Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger

Answer: Age 17. Will my breasts ever get bigger

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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