I am the mother of a 13 year old daughter with a breast size of 32DDD

This is a controversial issue and every case is handled individually, depending upon the symptoms of the condition and the maturation of the individual. At 13, most teenagers are still in the growing phase, and I would not advise surgery in this age group. First of all, I would suggest that she is evaluated by her pediatrician to rule out other benign causes of macromastia (large breasts). Always try conservative measures first if she is having symptoms such as back pain, neck pain, or limitations on activity from her large breasts. Her appearance will continue to change as she goes through puberty and experiences hormone fluctuations. If the condition persists and she is suffering physical symptoms or issues with self esteem, I would consider consultation at or around age 16, or when she is physically and emotionally mature.

Hayley A. Brown, MD

This is a very common question. Girls mature much quicker than boys. Their growth spurt usually is between the ages of 11 to 13. While your daughter may be physically mature there is another issue. Is she mentally or psychologically mature enough to understand the nature & long term consequences of Breast Reduction surgery? Such issues as permanent scarring, the need for possible additional breast surgery over the course of her lifetime , the ability to breast feed in the future may be diminished, etc. should be addressed & understood agreed by you & your daughter before any consideration of breast surgery. Consider a consult with an ASAPS member and address your concerns. They are experts in breast surgery.

Best,
Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS

That is a difficult issue. The age of surgery is controversial as already mentioned. I agree with first speaking with your pediatrician then a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Generally, surgery is not recommended until one is both physically and mentally mature. It does however help to get information sooner rather than later.

There is no specific age at which it is appropriate for a young woman to have a breast reduction. A significant complicating factor is that young teenagers are often not able to fully appreciate the long term consequences of a surgical procedure. These would include permanent scars etc. Further at this age there are likely to be additional changes to her breasts before maturation is complete. An additional consideration is how her breast size affects her daily life. How much is her physical activity compromised by her breast size; how much unwanted attention does she get from her classmates and peers as a result of her breast size. All these issues need to be considered together for you, the mother, to make the best decision for your daughter. I suggest a thorough discussion with her pediatrician and a full discussion with a plastic surgeon. They can help you with the assessments and implications of your different options. If surgery does become a realistic and serious consideration, perhaps your daughter may be able achieve an appropriate result result with liposuction of the breasts alone. This would at least minimize any permanent scars. Best wishes and good luck!