Your Teen Wants a Breast Reduction: Here’s What Parents Should Know

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess breast tissue and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. Although it is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure for women who want smaller breasts, breast reduction surgery can also be a medical necessity for those who experience pain, discomfort, and other physical problems due to the size of their breasts.

While many people assume it’s best to wait until you’re older and finished having children before undergoing a breast reduction, that isn’t necessarily the case. The procedure is becoming more popular among teenagers and young adults.

If your teenage daughter is considering breast reduction surgery, here is what you as parents should keep in mind:

Breast reduction surgery can provide significant benefits.

Breast reduction surgery can provide numerous benefits for teenage girls with large breasts. In addition to improving their physical comfort and reducing pain, breast reduction surgery can also improve their self-esteem, body image, and overall quality of life. Many girls report feeling more confident and comfortable in their own skin after the procedure.

Recovery can take several weeks.

While breast reduction surgery is generally safe and effective, it is still a major surgical procedure that requires a significant amount of recovery time. Your daughter will need to take a few weeks off from school or other activities to recover fully. During this time, she will need to avoid strenuous activities and may need to wear a supportive bra or compression garment.

The ideal age for breast reduction surgery varies.

The ideal age for breast reduction surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and development of your daughter’s breasts, her overall health, and her emotional maturity. Generally, it is recommended that teenage girls wait until their breasts have fully developed before undergoing breast reduction surgery. This typically occurs around the age of 18, although some girls may be eligible for surgery at a younger age.

Your daughter should be involved in the decision-making process.

Breast reduction surgery is a major decision that should not be made lightly. It is important to involve your daughter in the decision-making process and to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives to surgery with her. She should be fully informed about the procedure and should have realistic expectations about the results.

Your daughter should be in good overall health.

Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, your daughter will need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that she is in good overall health. This will include a physical exam, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests as needed. She should also be honest with her doctor about any medical conditions or medications that she is taking.

Your daughter should choose a qualified plastic surgeon.

Breast reduction surgery should only be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon who is board-certified and experienced in the procedure. You should research potential surgeons carefully and choose one who has a good reputation and a track record of successful surgeries. Your daughter should also feel comfortable talking to the surgeon and asking questions about the procedure.

Your daughter may experience some scarring.

Breast reduction surgery typically involves incisions around the areola and along the lower breast crease. While the scars will fade over time, they may still be visible. It is important to discuss the potential for scarring with your daughter before the surgery and to help her understand what to expect.

Insurance may cover the cost of breast reduction surgery.

In some cases, health insurance may cover the cost of breast reduction surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. However, this can vary depending on your insurance provider and your daughter’s specific situation. You should check with your insurance company to see if breast reduction surgery is covered and what the requirements are for coverage.

Breast reduction surgery can be a life-changing procedure for teenage girls with large breasts who experience pain, discomfort, and other physical problems. It can provide significant benefits for their physical and mental well-being, but it is important to carefully consider all of the potential risks and to choose a qualified plastic surgeon. With the right information and support, breast reduction surgery can be a safe and effective solution for teenage girls who want to improve their quality of life.

Visit our breast reduction before and after gallery to see real-life results performed by our team of Beverly Hills plastic surgeons. Contact us to schedule a consultation.