Is a breast reduction something I should seriously consider?
Firstly I would like to know the chances of some of the side effects occurring and whether I am a good candidate for breast reduction. I am 15 years old, 5ft6, I weigh 111lb and and very small framed- I wear a size 2(UK size 6) but have to wear large tops that hang off of me as I wear a 30G and am on the larger side of the size (I have been professionally fitted). Alongside the usual pain of large breasts I also have some aesthetic issues as I experienced excessive and rapid growth of my breasts; I was late in developing breasts and had not started developing until I was around 13, then I started growing very rapidly and I went up a cup size every 2.5-3 weeks and I am now left with stretched areola and stretched and slightly sagging breasts. I feel the usual side effects of large breasts alongside emotional stress as my breasts are often referred to as disproportionately large. I also feel a lot of scepticism towards reduction surgery as I worry about scarring and how easy it would be for the surgeon as I believe there is very little fat in my breasts as they are very dense and heavy. What would your advice be?
Many thanks,
Isobel
HI Isobel. Thank you for the question.
It sounds like breast reduction is a very reasonable thing for you to consider. Breast reduction patients are among the happiest of all platstic surgery patients. Breast reduction can change your life in so many ways for the better.
But, there are things to consider.....
#1 There will be scars.
#2 Your breasts may grow again.
#3 I would recommend a thorough work-up by your medical doctor to be sure this isn't being caused by a hormonal imbalance.
#4 Fat or Breast Tissue: Any experienced plastic surgeon should be able to handle either. It really doesn't make any difference.
Best of luck to you.
Dr M
Hello,
The first suggestion I have is for you to go and see you Primary doctor and discuss the pain you are experiencing. From there your doctor will be able to discuss some of the best options for you. You might be advised to get physical therapy or to see a chiropractor for physical therapy. You may also be prescribed pain medication for pain management. If that doesnt work, they might send you for a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. During your consultation you can express your concerns of scarring, complications associated with breast reduction, and any other concerns you may have. Thank you for your question and have a great day!
Isobel,
Your situation is very similar to many teenagers who are faced with early macromastia or vey large breasts. It can and does cause physical symptoms (i.e. neck-back pain, rashes, grooves in shoulders, etc.). Often these symptoms are revealed with Breast Reduction Surgery. Studies have shown that the quality of life in these patients has been improved after Breast Reduction Surgery. Yes, there are scars that do not go away but, presently that is the price many pay for alleviation of their discomfort(s). Consider a consult with a member of the ASAPS in your area to address your concerns. They should have photo’s of there work you can review to see if this surgery is for you. Best,
Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS