What is the best age for a Breast Reduction?

What age is most beneficial to have a Breast Reduction?

There is no ideal age for a breast reduction, it is a consideration of personal preference and when in a patient’s lifetime they feel ready to take that step.  

Some patients experience a condition called Gigantomastia (excessive growth in breast tissue resulting in extremely large breasts), which can occur at any stage in life, whereas other women have had large breasts since puberty. Women’s breasts typically stop growing by the time they reach 18 but Fluctuations in weight, hormones and lifestyle changes can cause women’s breasts to change size and shape dramatically over time, and for some women this can be debilitating, causing a range of mental and physical issues.  

Should you wait till after children to have a Breast Reduction? 

Many patients have potentially waited till they are older or have had children before considering a breast reduction procedure. This could be due to a few factors, such as: not knowing the procedure was available to young women, not being able to afford the procedure, and worrying about being able to breastfeed in the future. 

However, there is no reason to suggest that patients should wait till they are older to have a breast reduction. If you are struggling with large breasts that are causing you discomfort and affecting your self-esteem at any age, then a breast reduction could be beneficial for you. Reducing the size of the breasts can contribute to improved health and lifestyle for many patients, enabling them to exercise more comfortably and reducing any associated back and neck pain caused by carrying large breasts.  

A breast reduction can also instil lifechanging confidence in patients, allowing them to live their lives more freely without the worry of large breasts.  At MYA you must be over the age of 18 to be consulted for any cosmetic surgery procedure. If you are a young woman and are considering a breast reduction procedure, why wait till you are older to have a procedure that can positively benefit your life? Talk to your friends and family for support, join the MYA forum and speak with other likeminded patients about their experiences with breast reduction surgery.  

Can I breastfeed following a Breast Reduction procedure? 

Very few women are able to breast feed following a breast reduction as the nipples are separated from the milk duct during surgery. If you are concerned about not being able to breastfeed following your procedure, please discuss this with your MYA surgeon during your consultation.  

How can a Breast Reduction improve my life?

• Improve the shape and look of the breasts. 

• Reduce associated back and neck pain that carrying larger breasts can cause. 

• Reduce bra discomfort and bra strap irritation. 

• Improve confidence and self-esteem. 

• Make exercising and everyday activities easier and reduce discomfort during physical activity. 

• Make everyday activities easier. 

• Improve how your clothes fit and increase your wardrobe options e.g. swimwear, strappy tops, vests etc. 

To learn more about breast reduction surgery costs, click here.