30F/ 30G in UK / US - bad posture and back pain. Should I do a breast reduction?

Unfortunately, you have not provided any photographs. At size 30 F or G, each 100 grams of breast tissue removed corresponds to 1 cup size change. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the amount of breast tissue. Reduction is recommended for women that experience a significant amount of discomfort due to the weight and size of their breasts (shoulder, back, neck pain). They may have difficulty exercising or wearing certain types of clothing. During surgery, excess skin, fat and breast tissue may be removed as well to improve sagging. The sagging nipple position is corrected and the breast is reshaped. The incision is typically made around the nipple, extending vertically down to the crease, and then ending in a horizontal line within the breast crease. Based on your narrative, it would seem that you are a reasonable candidate for surgery. However, there is no replacement for an in-person consultation/exam. As always discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Almost all patients who had breast reduction surgery says same thing "I wish I had the surgery before"

Dear Rascalychee,

it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

At 21 years old and with your current measurements, it is understandable that your breasts may feel disproportionately heavy for your frame. A reduction could help improve posture, reduce pain, and make daily activities more comfortable.

You are likely a good candidate for breast reduction. I would consult with surgeons in your area to get a better idea of what breast reduction would look like for you. Some patients have reduction through health insurance and others have it done on their own terms, cosmetically. Many people express relief from symptoms associated with large breasts after breasts are reduced and placed in proper position on your chest wall.

Breast reduction surgery has a high rate of patient satisfaction, mainly because it addresses the cause of a lot of the symptoms patients may be experiencing. In the United States, for insurance-based cases, surgeons will determine how much breast tissue they are going to remove based on your body surface area. By removing the weight of that tissue, we are aiming at alleviating symptoms such as: upper back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder grooving from bras, and rashes between or underneath the breasts. Most patients report that they have significant improvement in these symptoms following surgery. Something to consider at your age would be whether you are planning on future pregnancy and if you want to potentially be able to breastfeed in the future. Some breast reductions require a free nipple grafts, after which, a patient is not able to breastfeed.

From your description you may be a candidate for breast reduction. The procedure would reduce the breast volume as well as lift any sagging. Though not a guarantee, many women report improvement in neck and back pain after breast reduction, as well as less discomfort when exercising. See a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation to learn more.

Hi Rascalychee!
Thank you so much for your question and for sharing this here.
Breast reduction can be life changing for patients who have a smaller frame and disproportionately large breast volume. Many women see improvement in back pain, neck pain, shoulder grooving, posture, and the ability to comfortably find bras and clothing that fit their body. Breast reduction decisions are based on tissue quality, degree of ptosis, skin elasticity, nipple position relative to the inframammary fold, gland vs fat ratio, and your personal shape goals. Technique and final size outcome are individualized — there is no “one formula that fits all.” During consultation your surgeon will go over expected scars, recovery time, and realistic surgical outcomes for your body.Every patient is unique — anatomy, history, physical exam, tissue quality, goals, skin elasticity, and surgical risk profile all change what is indicated / recommended. Because of this, this should not be taken as personal medical advice. The next step is always an in-person evaluation with a board-certified plastic surgeon that can examine you and discuss individualized plan options.
Hope this helps!
— Georgina Nichols, MD FACS