What can be done to help gigantomastia go away for good?

Question

I’ve suffered from large breasts for most of my late 20’s and early 30’s. I had a reduction in ‘16 and lipo in ‘17. Both resulted in regrowth. I’m not overweight and would barely fit a 36/38 DDD bra. Now, being pregnant, I’m in a 38J. I’m miserable! I hate my chest and just want to be a small c or even smaller after the baby is born. I know a typical reduction can only take you so small, but what if I’m in the same situation and have regrowth after the 3rd surgery? Are there any other options?

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

It is normal for the breasts to increase in size while pregnant and breastfeeding. Wait 6 months after your milk has dried up to evaluate your options with a board certified plastic surgeon. You may need another breast reduction. Good luck.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to experience an increase in breast size with pregnancy. Some of the changes are temporary while others are not.I typically recommend a delay of 6 months post partum or 3 months post cessation of breast feeding (whichever is longer) to allow for a return to baseline. It is at this point that an honest appraisal of what is needed can be done.Ultimately, you may need repeat reduction.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
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Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Congratulations on the pregnancy; increasing several "cup" sizes during pregnancy is not uncommon.  Your breasts usually stabilize at around seven months but can increase when your milk first comes in after delivery.  The pregnancy hormones progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) cause an increase in blood volume, making breast tissue swell. Based upon how much weight you gain during pregnancy, and genetics, your breasts are likely to return to their pre-pregnancy size after breastfeeding is complete.
The breasts can be reduced again, and this is not that uncommon. Wait until you return to your pre-pregnancy weight to re-evaluate whether a revision is necessary. A discussion with your OB/GYN might be in order as well.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

After you have completed your pregnancy, breast feeding and have completely dried up, you can consider a breast reduction using 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, if not injured during your previous surgery.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear KRH2020,
it is normal for breasts to increase in size during pregnancy. In most cases they reduce in size after you give birth and stop breastfeeding. If it doesn't happen, then you will most likely need a breast reduction surgery. 
Daniel Barrett, MD

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Hormones associated with pregnancy have affected your breasts.   After you give birth, if the breasts do not return to their pre-pregnancy size, you would be able to undergo another reduction.   I would also recommend endocrinology workup in your case.   Best wishes.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
During pregnancy, there is significant proliferation of the glandular elements of the breast, often resulting in a significant increase in size. After childbirth and cessation of breastfeeding, involution of the breast will occur. 
Liposuction may reduce the size of the breast somewhat but is not extremely effective in breast tissue removal. 
I recommend waiting until involution occurs after pregnancy / breastfeeding (~6 months). At that time you will be able to determine what is required (lift versus second reduction). The tendency for breast regrowth after breast reduction diminishes with age, most often occurring in the late teens.
Best wishes...

Sybile Val, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Once you are over the pregnancy, schedule a visit with your plastic surgeon.   It is not uncommon for your breast to increase several sizes with pregnancy and breastfeeding.  You may need another reduction.

What can be done to help gigantomastia go away for good?

Answers (8)

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