Which specialist should a teenager consult for breast reduction surgery?

From the Guidelines

A teenager seeking breast reduction surgery should consult with a pediatric plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has experience working with adolescent patients. This specialist has completed the requirements of residency training for board certification in plastic surgery, plus an additional year training in pediatric plastic surgery and/or pediatric craniofacial surgery 1. The pediatric plastic surgeon will evaluate the teenager's physical development, breast size, symptoms (such as back pain, shoulder pain, or skin irritation), and overall health to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Some key points to consider when consulting a pediatric plastic surgeon for breast reduction surgery include:

• Ensuring that breast development is complete, which typically occurs by age 16-18
• Discussing the procedure itself, potential risks and complications, recovery time, expected outcomes, and whether insurance might cover the procedure if it's deemed medically necessary due to physical symptoms
• Involving parents or legal guardians in the consultation and consent process for minors
• Having a pediatrician or primary care physician involved in the process to ensure comprehensive care and appropriate medical clearance for surgery 1.

From the Research

Specialist for Breast Reduction in Teenagers

To determine the appropriate specialist for breast reduction surgery in teenagers, it is essential to consider the complexity and sensitivity of the procedure.

• The specialist should have experience in performing breast reduction surgeries, particularly in adolescent patients.
• A plastic surgeon with expertise in reduction mammaplasty is the most suitable specialist for this procedure 2, 3, 4, 5.
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends that patients consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for breast reduction surgery.

Key Considerations

When selecting a specialist for breast reduction surgery in teenagers, the following factors should be considered:

• The surgeon's experience and qualifications in performing breast reduction surgeries in adolescent patients 2, 3, 4, 5.
• The surgeon's ability to assess the patient's physical and emotional maturity, as well as their potential for postoperative benefit and risk tolerance for postoperative breast growth 2.
• The surgeon's familiarity with the latest surgical techniques and evidence-based practices in breast reduction surgery 6.

Additional Factors

Other factors to consider when selecting a specialist for breast reduction surgery in teenagers include:

• The surgeon's communication style and ability to address the patient's concerns and questions.
• The surgeon's willingness to involve the patient and their family in the decision-making process.
• The surgeon's follow-up care and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient 3, 4, 5.