Breast Reduction for Teens in Beverly Hills
When puberty arrives, it means dramatic changes. However, for some young women, those bodily changes can lead to notable difficulties, particularly if the breasts grow too large. Breast reduction for teens and adolescents can even become a medical necessity in some cases to avoid other lasting health concerns. Dr. Gabbay works closely with teens and parents to provide compassionate care that keeps the patient’s needs centralized.
What Is Breast Reduction for Teens?
Teen breast reduction focuses on removing breast tissue to decrease breast size and weight. When the breasts grow out of proportion to a person’s body, they can lead to a range of issues. From chronic discomfort to interfering with physical development, heavy breasts pose much more than a cosmetic issue.
This procedure allows adolescents to avoid a potential lifetime of chronic issues by providing timely treatment. Making this decision can be a significant challenge. That is why we thoroughly consult with parents and patients to find the ideal path forward.
When Does a Teen Qualify for Breast Reduction?
When working with teens, we take every precaution to ensure a safe and appropriate procedure plan. First, we consult about the patient’s symptoms and look for nonsurgical interventions. For example, patients may first try options such as physical therapy or better-fitting bras. If symptoms persist or worsen even with such interventions, then reduction may be required.
Candidates will typically have at least 3 years since the onset of menstruation. By this point, the majority of breast growth will already have occurred. Having breast reduction too early can lead to abnormalities with the remaining development of the breasts.
Additionally, we evaluate patient maturity on an individual basis. Both parents and the teen must fully understand the procedure’s risks, benefits, and implications before moving forward. Dr. Gabbay provides comprehensive information during the consultation, allowing patients and parents to make highly informed decisions.
If the path be beautiful, let us not ask where it leads.
- Anatole France
Signs a Teen May Need Breast Reduction
Common symptoms that may require this procedure can include:
- Chronic pain in upper and middle back areas
- Painful dents in the shoulders caused by bra strap pressure
- Recurring or chronic rashes under or between the breasts from trapped moisture
- Impact on posture (hunched, uneven)
- Pain or physical limitation during physical activities
What Is the Procedure Like?
- Anesthesia: Patients will have general anesthesia, meaning they will be unconscious. While awake procedures are possible in some cases, general anesthesia ensures a pain-free and low-stress experience for teens in particular.
- Operation: Dr. Gabbay removes tissue from the breast so the target volume is reached. Care is taken to ensure symmetry and balance. The breasts may be lifted to a higher position to accommodate the decrease in mass.
- Wrapping Up: If any incisions were made, they are closed to promote healing.
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Overview of Teen Breast Reduction Recovery
- Timeline: Recovery can span a few months. However, only the first week or two will need to be taken as time away from school. After that, patients can gradually return to their routine. After a few months, the breast tissue should fully settle into its final position.
- How It Feels: Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal and gradually resolve. We will prescribe medication to help mitigate these effects. The decreased weight can feel unusual for a couple of weeks, but patients rapidly adjust to the feeling.
- Aftercare: Keep the surgical sites clean and follow all post-op instructions. This includes avoiding any physical activity until approved after a follow-up visit.
Teen Breast Reduction FAQs
Patients will receive general anesthesia for the procedure. This means they will feel no pain and be unconscious for the duration of the surgery. Afterward, some pain in the breasts is normal. However, this gradually improves, and you can manage it well with pain medication.
Patients typically need to wait about 3 years after their first menstrual period (menarche) before having this procedure. On average, this would mean a patient should be about 15 years old to qualify for the procedure. However, we work with patients on an individual basis, evaluating each aspect of their case when recommending treatment plans.
Yes. For all patients under 18 years of age, Dr. Gabbay will need to receive approval from parents.
The main reason for teen breast reduction is how it improves health and quality of life. Some of the key benefits of the procedure include:
- Improved comfort
- Reduced risk for rashes or inflammation
- Alleviated symptoms
- Reduced strain on the spine and neck
- Boosted confidence
- Better-fitting clothing
Breast reduction can potentially impact the potential for breastfeeding and nipple sensitivity. However, whenever possible, Dr. Gabbay uses techniques that preserve breast function.
Some policies will cover this procedure. However, it will need to be deemed medically necessary for most insurance providers to cover part of the cost. Generally, breast reduction for teens only happens as a medical necessity. Still, we recommend contacting your provider to see what your plan allows for.
Any incisions will heal as scars. However, keep in mind these will fade with time, given proper care. Dr. Gabbay provides clear instructions for how to help scars heal. Additionally, all incisions are made with the intent of minimizing scar visibility. For example, incisions may be placed under the breast so they cannot be seen.
As with any surgical procedure, teen breast reduction does come with some risks. However, these can be minimized by taking three key steps:
- Choosing a skilled, board-certified surgeon with years of experience
- Taking the proper steps for preparing for surgery as instructed by your surgeon
- Following all post-procedure aftercare instructions
Schedule a Consultation
Call our office or use our online form to reach out and schedule a consultation with Dr. Gabbay. Learn more about breast reduction for teens and see if this is a viable way forward for you or your child.
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