How Young Is Too Young for a Breast Reduction?
Many teenagers struggle with overly large breasts that cause discomfort, pain, and self-consciousness. With puberty starting at younger ages, it’s natural to wonder: How young is too young for breast reduction?
Two Key Factors for Young Patients
When considering breast reduction at a young age, two important factors must be taken into account:
1. Have the Breasts Finished Growing?
Performing a breast reduction before breast development is complete carries the risk of future regrowth, which could lead to the need for a second procedure. While every patient is different, most surgeons recommend waiting until breast growth has stabilized before moving forward with surgery.
2. Is the Patient Emotionally Ready for Surgery?
Breast reduction is a major procedure, and young patients must be mature enough to understand both the benefits and the downsides of surgery. This includes the recovery process, potential scars, and long term considerations like changes in sensation and breastfeeding ability.
When to Start the Conversation
Even if surgery isn’t performed right away, it’s absolutely worth starting the conversation early. Some patients as young as 13 or 14 meet with a plastic surgeon alongside their parents to discuss their concerns.
- In many cases, follow-up visits are scheduled year after year to monitor breast growth and track changes.
- Taking photos over time can help determine whether breast size has stabilized, making it easier to decide on the right time for surgery.
The Bottom Line
There’s no strict age limit for breast reduction—what matters most is whether the patient is physically and emotionally ready for the procedure. If large breasts are causing significant pain, discomfort, or impacting quality of life, it’s never too early to start the conversation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
If you or your child are considering breast reduction at a young age, The Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington is here to guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
