Hello, I’m 18 and I really think I am in need of a breast reduction. First, I started growing at 11. By 12, I was at a C cup. I was about 4’10 at the time. Now, I am 5’2 and weigh 120 with a size 34F. My chest hangs to my waistline and I’m afraid that I have a curve in my spine. I also have bruising on my neck, shoulders, and chest. I went to karmanos? At 16, I have multiple knots in my chests.
JeNita- These all sound like great questions. From what you say, it sounds like you are probably a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. Your concerns about your family history of breast cancer are certainly valid. It is very unlikely that at 18 you would have any cancerous change, but it is very standard for ladies to have imaging of their breasts - with mammograms, ultrasounds and sometimes other types - to check for these sorts of things before having breast reduction or other breast surgeries. I would recommend that if you are having such problems that you find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area (this website is a great source) and get set up with an appointment to talk more about your situation and see if other studies of your breasts may be needed. If you are having trouble, asking your primary care doctor or OB/GYN doctor is also a great place to start the process. Best wishes in your journey!
JeNita, almost any breast size DD or greater causes neck, back, and shoulder pain. With an F-cup you should certainly qualify for a reduction. Most insurance plans cover breast reduction, but you’d need to call your plan’s customer service to be sure. Use the Find A Surgeon link on this website to get the names of board-certified plastic surgeons in your area. You can call to make sure the doctor accepts your insurance, and also to see if you need a referral from your primary care. A plastic surgeon can examine you, determine the best procedure and where the scars will be located, and discuss the risks and benefits. Reduction can affect your ability to breastfeed. But sometimes those big breasts are such a pain that younger women don’t want to wait until after they’ve had children. Good luck!
JeNita,
It appears you are an excellent candidate for a breast reduction. Patients who have had a breast reduction are some of the happiest patients in plastic surgery as they get immediate relief of their heavy breasts and relief from back, neck and shoulder pain. During your consultation your plastic surgeon will discuss the best surgical plan for your large breasts.
It sounds like you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. In the past, women were not aware of this procedure or were afraid of complications so they suffer through 20 - 30 years of shoulder/neck/back pain, skin rash, shoulder strap grooving, embarrassment, etc. As techniques and information about the procedure has improved, women are choosing to have this procedure earlier. A trained board certified plastic surgeon should be able to discuss how much tissue can be safely removed, placement and pattern of the scar and types of risks involved. Most insurance should be able to help you cover for this procedure. Ask a lot of questions of your surgeon and from women whom have had this surgery. Good luck in your decision.