Breast Reduction For Teens: Know More

There is no doubt that we currently live in a world that places a great emphasis on physical appearance and sexuality. This culture can create a challenging world for teens who are already dealing with heightened emotions and developing self-awareness. While many teens struggle discomfort or insecurity with their appearance, one of the most traumatic physical issues a girl can face is disproportionately large breasts. Many may seek help from a surgical breast reduction.

Parents may initially be shocked to learn that their youth wants to voluntarily subject themselves to such a serious procedure as reduction. But doctors say that it is important for parents to spend time listening to their children and understanding their goals, rather than dismissing them.

The issues for a teen are two-fold. First, is the attention, overly large breasts can lead to unwanted and unwelcome stares, leers and comments from both peers and other men. At school, she may feel stereotyped and given objectionable nicknames. The negative attention can be crippling, sometimes making a teen feel uncomfortable going to places as normal as the mall.

On the other side is the physical discomfort. Large size is commonly associated with chronic shoulder, neck and back pain. Additional symptoms can include arm and breast pain, rashes underneath the breast and painful grooves in the shoulders caused by bra straps.

Following the reduction woman often find it easier to complete physical tasks and more enjoyable to participate in sports and other activities. Shopping becomes more enjoyable as they can more easily find clothes to fit their proportions.

Even with all those potential benefits, most doctors are unlikely to recommend elective reduction surgery for girls under 18. A female should be fully mature, having been at a stable height, weight and breast size for two to three years. The chances of a follow-up surgery being required are greatly increased in girls who are not done growing.

A potential candidate and her parents should spend plenty of time researching the procedure, interviewing potential doctors, looking at before and after photos and talking to people who have undergone the procedure. The associated risks and long-term effects of surgery need to be carefully considered and discussed with parents and doctors. 

For example, there is a possibility she will not be able to breast feed, something that may not be important to her in the present but may be in the future. It’s also possible that follow-up surgeries will be required.