Teen Breast Reduction: What do I need to know?
Many women dream of larger breasts, but for those who are blessed with a little too much, the reality is… bigger isn’t always better. Breast reduction can help reduce back and shoulder pain, eliminate skin rashes and irritation, make exercise easier, help clothing fit better, and restore self-confidence. While many wait until they are an adult to consider this procedure, breast reduction can be beneficial for some teens. If your teen wants breast reduction, keep reading for tips and facts to help you make the breast reduction decision.
Overly Large Breasts Can Have a Negative Impact on Teens
Does your teen really need breast reduction? This isn’t an answer that you can easily make, but for some teens, overly large breasts can have several negative impacts. One study found that teens with macromastia (or overly large breasts) had lower self-esteem, lower self-perceived health, a higher BMI, and more breast-related symptoms. Additionally, they were also at an increased risk for eating disorders. The researchers concluded, “Macromastia has a substantial negative impact on health-related quality of life, self-esteem, physical symptoms and eating behaviors in adolescents with this condition… Health care providers should be aware of these important negative health outcomes that are associated with macromastia and consider early evaluation for adolescents with this condition.”
Teen Breast Reduction Is Becoming More Common
As a parent, it can be stressful to think about your teen undergoing surgery but know that you aren’t alone. Teen breast reduction, and breast reduction in general, is becoming more common. Recently, 17-year-old actress Ariel Winter shared her journey to breast reduction. The 5-foot, 1-inch actress had size F breasts, making it difficult to find appropriate clothing and causing a great deal of pain. She says, “It was so painful. I had a lot of back problems. I really couldn’t stand up straight for a long period of time. It started to hurt so bad that I couldn’t take the pain. My neck was hurting so bad and I actually had some problems with my spine.” She explains that the surgery transformed how she feels about herself, “I have felt happier with myself than I ever have.”
Some Issues to Consider
While teen breast reduction is the right choice for many teens, it isn’t without risks. Here are some things you and your need to consider before surgery:
- Breasts May Continue to Grow: If breast reduction is performed too early, the breasts may continue to grow. If that were to occur a revision surgery may be necessary.
- Overweight Teens May Have More Complications: Many teens with large breasts may be overweight or obese. Complications may be more common in these patients. On the other hand, large breasts often don’t decrease substantially with weight loss and they can make it more difficult to be active and exercise.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery is certainly possible; however there are some risks that after breast reduction you may not be able to breastfeed.
Taking the First Step
If you have a teen with large breasts that are causing discomfort, visit a plastic surgeon and discuss your options. Breast reduction might be the right choice for your teen or it may be best to wait. If you want more information so you can make an informed decision. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.