15 year old Breast Reduction? (photos)

Question

My insurance says they cover Breast reductions but they recommend if you're 18 like all other insurances but they have some exceptions like backpain and stuff. I'm 15, 38J, and 211 pounds. Without the breast I'm probably like 195 since I've been eating healthy and I play sports and walk to and from the bus stop! But when I run my breasts hurts like hell which suck. Im leaving to go to on vacay on June 26th I neeed to get rid of these before then...HELP!!!!!!!!

Ellen A. Janetzke, MD · Answer

It sounds like you would benefit from a breast reduction but your age and weight are somewhat of a concern. To prove to your insurance company (& the rest of us), you need to try and lose some weight first. If your breasts are still large and causing symptoms after the weight loss, then a better case can be made for your insurance to cover your surgery. Most likely you are still growing and your breasts will continue to change.  Even if you had the surgery now you may need another in the future. This would carry more risk as well. I have performed breast reductions on patients less than 18 but they have all been closer to a "normal " body weight. I would recommend visiting your doctor for help with the weight loss so that you can do it safely and effectively. Best wishes!

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes you obviously have large and symptomatic breasts. You do not specify a height, but you are severely overweight, and insurance (even if you were 18, or are approved at your age and your parents consent) will mandate a minimum amount of tissue removal per breast dependent upon your height and weight (BMI).Let's guess a height of 5' 5" and your stated weight of 211 (you would have to stand on a scale at your doctor's office and verify your actual weight): the insurance formula would mandate a removal of 744 grams (about 1 2/3 pounds) per breast.This is an excellent operation for women with large symptomatic breasts that fulfill insurance requirements. But not something "checked off" your list before vacation.Age 15 and 211 pounds is not healthy by any criteria, and you would be at increased risk for elective surgery. BTW, without your breasts you are not "like 195," since your breasts almost certainly do not weigh 8 pounds each. Even if you were to lose weight via diet, exercise and better eating habits (or underwent gastric bypass), your breasts will likely remain large, and you will likely be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery. But please lose weight first so you can have a safe surgery and easy, complication-free recovery. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear god,The best thing that you can do for yourself is to lose weight.  You are far too overweight to be considered for a breast reduction.  Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you are at adult height and no longer growing, then perhaps you are a candidate. You will need permission from your parents to move forward.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problems your disproportionately large breasts cause.
It sounds like you are dealing with juvenile breast hypertrophy along with the physical and psychosocial consequences of this diagnosis. In other words, the breasts are too large for your frame causing  both physical and psychological distress.
As   you think about  breast reduction surgery make sure you and your parents do your homework and understand the potential risks and complications associated with  the procedure.  It is important to also understands 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).
Sometimes a procedure is covered through health insurance. The best way to obtain insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery involves some “hoops” to jump through. The more documentation you have (for example, from your primary care doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor etc.) the better when it comes to obtaining insurance “authorization” for the procedure.This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Make sure you're  working with a well-trained/experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.
I hope this, and the attached link, helps.

15 year old Breast Reduction? (photos)

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