The number of reduction mammaplasties in adolescents has increased significantly in recent times. Factors such as high rates of childhood obesity and increased body awareness among teenagers are believed to be responsible for this trend. Researchers from Sheffield Children’s Hospital in England made an attempt to study this phenomenon. Published last September in the European Journal of Plastic Surgery, this study reviewed the indications, issues and outcome of breast reduction surgery on adolescents.
The study reviewed data on patient demographics, mechanical and psychological symptoms and postoperative complications in 36 female patients who were less than 19 years of age (of mean age, 17.4 years). The set included both unilateral and bilateral reduction mammaplasty patients. A qualitative prospective questionnaire study was conducted between 5 and 13 years after the surgery. Surgery benefits were assessed from responses rated using the Likert Scaling system.
The findings of the study were as follows:
- Patients reported pre-surgery mechanical symptoms such as back and neck pain, difficulty sleeping and inflammation of the skin folds or intertrigo
- Psychological complaints included increased self-consciousness, low self-esteem, depression and bullying
- After treatment
- 67 percent of the teens reported immediate resolution of mechanical symptoms
- 47 percent reported improvement in psychological symptoms
The researchers concluded: "Reduction mammaplasty is especially beneficial in this group of patients as they suffer increased psychological comorbidities versus their adult counterparts". They also cautioned that patients need to undergo adequate evaluation and counseling for an optimal outcome.
Breast reduction surgery provides the solution to overly large breasts by the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin. When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the procedure results in smaller, firmer, lighter, and more evenly proportioned breasts. Results are usually permanent, though the appearance of the breasts can change due to factors such as weight fluctuations and pregnancy.