Is a 32D/DD too small for a breast reduction?

Question

I am 17, 5 2 , 100lbs and a size 32dd, but also a large 32d, I love sports but they are hard to participate in with my breast size. I have one sports bra that doesn't cause pain when running, but it is tight, and leaves painful marks. I've been reading about breast reductions and most people experience neck and back pain before their reduction. I do have frequent pain/stiffness in my shoulders, but I dont know if it is from my breast size. Am I still a good candidate for a reduction

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Based on your description, you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery.  This operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations to perform. However, much more information is needed to determine whether you should proceed with surgery, and if so when (timing).  In my practice, I individualize the “timing” of surgery based on a lot of information that is transmitted during the consultation process.  
“Typical” patients who present for breast reduction surgery are women who have disproportionately large breasts, causing problems such as neck/back/shoulder discomfort, postural changes, bra strap grooving, skin irritation/rashes under the breasts, and/or difficulty with activities of daily living and/or exercise etc. There may be both physical as well as psychosocial “stress” caused by the disproportionately large breasts.
Reducing breast tissue mass and elevating the breasts on the chest wall tend to improve or alleviate many of the symptoms associated with the disproportionately large breasts.
Patients considering breast reduction surgery should also consider the potential downsides (risks/complications) associated with the procedure as well.. Poor scarring, for example may be associated with the procedure.  Additional surgery may be necessary in the short or longer term for a multitude of reasons.
When the time is right, I suggest that you seek consultation with well experienced plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you would be pleased with.
Then, I would suggest you visit a few surgeons whose practices concentrate on aesthetic surgery. Ask to see lots of examples of their work and preferably speak/see patients who have had similar procedures done.  Once you have chosen your plastic surgeon carefully, it will be important for you to communicate her goals carefully as well. In my practice, I asked patients to use as many “visual aids”, such as goal photographs, during the communication process. Be careful about utilizing terms such as “ideal” ( there is no such thing), “B or C cup” and/or “proportionate"… these terms can be confusing, since they may mean different things to different people. 
I hope this, and the attached link (dedicated to breast reduction surgery concerns), helps.  Best wishes.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

This question is difficult to answer without an examination. I would say the best first step is to schedule a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (which is usually free) who can determine whether you are a candidate or not. You may be a candidate, but it is unlikely that you insurance company will cover it since your breast size does not seem to be that large. #BreastReduction #PlasticSurgery

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

Patients undergo breast reductions for many reasons, and the reasons that you name are many of the ones I hear from my patients. I would say that any time someone is unhappy with their breast size, they are an appropriate candidate for a breast reduction as long as they understand the immediate and long-term risks and think that the benefits of undergoing the surgery are worth the risks. Given your age and breast size, insurance may not cover your surgery. This is something you should ask about particularly if you are scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question on such a personal topic. I would say that with your height and weight being small compared to your bra cup size, you would be an excellent candidate for reduction surgery. We've treated patients younger than you even, and they tend to do very well. It can give you back a more active and comfortable lifestyle. Definitely visit with a local plastic surgeon. Best of luck to you

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Without seeing you in person, it is difficult to say whether or not you are good candidate. You would need parental consent as well.

Is a 32D/DD too small for a breast reduction?

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Answer: 17 year old considering breast reduction

Answer: 17 year old considering breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction candidate?

Answer: Breast reduction candidate?

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Is a 32D/DD too small for a breast reduction?

Answers (6)

Answer: 17 year old considering breast reduction

Answer: 17 year old considering breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction candidate?

Answer: Breast reduction candidate?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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