Teenage symmastia. I live in the UK. I am turning 16 next month and I want surgery for this.

Question

When I turned about 11, i realised my breasts started to grow very close to each other. They are now attached and I have breast tissue between my breasts. I have always been self conscious of this, and I have very large breasts. 34DDD. I have a petite frame, yet my breasts really annoy me, and I have only very recently discovered symmastia. Would I be allowed surgery at 16 years old, and would I have to pay for it? Thank you!

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.You seem to have Juvenile Hypertrophy of the Breasts. This is usually an indication for Breast Reduction, especially if symptomatic. The extra breast tissue between the breasts can also be removed at the time of the reduction. Please make an appointment with an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who can examine you and help you.All The Best!

Larry Weinstein, MD · Answer

See a local family doc who will refer you to a registrar plastic surgeon. If you have neck, back and shoulder pain you are probably a good candidate for coverage with the NHS.If you don't have coverage consider a trip to a qualified board certified plastic surgeon in the states. I have had several patients from GB for this and other procedures. Good luck

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the problems your disproportionately large breasts are causing you. It is probable that you are dealing with juvenile breast hypertrophy along with the physical and (possible) psychosocial consequences of this diagnosis.  
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.  Hopefully you have the support of your parents as you do your homework.
As you learn about breast reduction surgery, make sure you read about the potential risk/complications associated with the procedure. You may find the attached link helpful in this regard.  For example, unsatisfactory scarring is  one of the potential complications. Make sure you also understand 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).

I hope this, and the attached link, helps. Best wishes.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello maddie831. Thanks for your question. It's possible you're a candidate for a breast reduction. This operation can be performed at your age if your breasts are extremely large and burdensome. You will have to see a plastic surgeon in the UK who can guide you with regards to NHS coverage. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO.

Teenage symmastia. I live in the UK. I am turning 16 next month and I want surgery for this.

Answers (4)

Answer: Possible breast reduction?

Answer: Possible breast reduction?

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Teenage symmastia. I live in the UK. I am turning 16 next month and I want surgery for this.

Answers (4)

Answer: Possible breast reduction?

Answer: Possible breast reduction?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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