Is breast reduction recommended for a 17-year-old?

From the Research

Breast reduction surgery can be recommended for a 17-year-old in certain circumstances, as it may significantly improve their quality of life by alleviating physical and psychological distress caused by large breasts. The decision to undergo breast reduction surgery should be based on individual factors, including the presence of significant physical problems such as chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain, skin irritation, posture issues, or difficulty with physical activities, as well as psychological distress from unwanted attention or body image concerns 1.

Key Considerations

• The timing of the surgery can be appropriate at 17 years old, as breast development is often complete or nearly complete by this age 2.
• Healthcare providers should evaluate the patient's physical development, overall health status, and psychological readiness before proceeding with surgery.
• The decision should involve the teen, parents/guardians, and a plastic surgeon experienced in adolescent cases.
• Insurance coverage may be available if the procedure is deemed medically necessary rather than cosmetic.

Outcomes and Complications

• Breast reduction surgery has been shown to be safe and effective in adolescents, with high patient satisfaction rates and significant improvements in self-body image and participation in social activities 3.
• However, potential complications such as dehiscence, infection, and poor scarring should be considered, as well as the risk of postoperative breast growth, particularly in obese adolescents 2.
• The surgery generally provides permanent results, though significant weight changes or pregnancy can affect breast size later in life.

Alternative Treatments

• Physical therapy (PT) is often attempted as a conservative treatment for macromastia, but research has shown that it may not provide significant relief, and patients may still progress to surgery 4.
• The requirement for PT as a prerequisite for surgery by insurance companies should be reevaluated, as it may not be an effective treatment for macromastia.