Is it more likely for my breasts to grow back after reduction when I have it in my genes?

Question

big breasts are in my genes as all the women in my family have had big breasts. In MAY I had a breast reduction (from G to D) because I had saggy boobs and it was not till later when I realized I could have done breast lift instead. I did not even come up with that option before. Now I regret my decision so bad as I miss them a lot am not exaclty happy with my new body. If I eat foods that contain estrogen would that help? I am currently 25 so I do not think they would grow or would they?

Scott Tucker, MD · Answer

I think that the chance of your breast tissue regrowing with out significant weight gain is low.  So to get more volume you might actually need to have a breast augmentation with possible tightening of your mastopexy around the implant.
Good luck,
Dr. T

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, a surgeon will actually use the terms interchangeably (breast reduction and mastopexy or “breast lift”) because a mastopexy is always done in conjunction with the breast reduction. It sounds like you are unhappy with the amount of tissue that was taken since it is a more dramatic difference than you expected. In most cases, patients choosing breast reduction go through insurance, but insurance requires a specific amount of tissue be removed from each breast in order for the surgery to be covered (cost wise). Which could be why your surgeon took more tissue than you expected. You always have the option of an implant down the road to add volume or fullness if that is what you desire. Best of luck in the future!

Arturo Guiloff, MD · Answer

I am sorry that you are not completely satisfied with your results. This emphasizes the fact that it’s so important to have an extensive pre- operative visit with your surgeon to explain very clearly what your goals and expectations are and to ask all pertinent questions about the procedure. There are several surgical procedures for the breasts, including a standard breast lift, a lift+ implants, breast reduction, breast re-shaping, etc. During this discussions is when you can figure out what will be the best option for you and what will fit your body the best. You are young and some breast growth could be expected in the future but this is uncertain and unpredictable. After a year you can sit down and discuss with your surgeon what are your options as your ultimate goal should be for you to be happy and satisfied with the way that you look.

Naveen Cavale, MBBS, MSc, FRCSEd(Plast) · Answer

Large breasts are often inherited. The other thing to consider is that breasts grow and shrink duting various stages of life.
They start growing at puberty. Typically this growth is complete by the age of 22-years. They grow further during pregnancy and breast feeding.
After breast feeding has completed, the breasts shrink (and can often droop, unfortunately).
They can shrink and droop further at menopause.
Weight gain and loss can also increase and decrease the size of the breasts (a lot of the breast is made up of fat)
Weigh gain/loss can follow a genetic pattern, so can your response to pregnancy and menopause, but in the main, weight gain and loss is due to an individuals diet and exercise habits.
So, in a sense, yes, your genes can affect breast 're-growth' after reduction surgery, depending on which stage of life you are at.
Thanks, and best wishes.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Before undergoing the BR, did your internist or OB/GYN evaluate your hormone levels?  An increase in weight, a hormonal imbalance, and certain meds could impact the size of your breasts.  A breast lift would reshape the tissue and reduce the size of the areola.  It only tightens the skin which will make the breasts more perky.  In general, large breast reductions are better left at D cups, because if the breasts are left too small there is not a great solution.  It would be silly to perform a breast reduction and then turn around and perform a breast augmentation because the breasts are now too small.  You have to realize that after breast reduction, your belly, legs, and arms will appear bigger as well.  Finally, the skin envelope and fullness generated from a D is usually more aesthetically pleasing.

Michael Hakimi, MD · Answer

It is very common to have recurrence of breast hypertrophy or growth after reduction. The younger the patient at the time of surgery the more likely it is for them to have regrowth in the future. It is safe to repeat the procedure and it is commonly done.I suppose diet and weight control would help but I'm not sure if you could completely prevent them from regrowth.

Peter A. Felice, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your questions, I’m sorry to hear you’re having some concerns postoperatively. 
With respect to breast changes, it’s true that your breast volume and shape can be altered. Childbirth, breastfeeding, weight gain or loss, and hormonal changes can all impact the size and character of your breast skin and soft tissue. I typically will ask patients about future planned pregnancies, weight fluctuation, and weather or not breast size has been consistent for a year or more before during a consultation and before performing a reduction.
I suggest you speak with your PCP regarding any dietary or supplementation plans to make sure you’re not ingesting anything that’s potentially harmful or a fad food. Also, speak with your Plastic Surgeon; he or she will want to know how you are feeling about your results and may be able to come up with a plan for a revision procedure. 
I hope this helps, best of luck to you!
Peter A. Felice

Is it more likely for my breasts to grow back after reduction when I have it in my genes?

Answers (7)

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