Breast development will vary from one individual to the next. Development begins with the onset of puberty. This process may continue until a young woman reaches her mid 20's. For some, it will begin early and others late. Some will have significant growth while others very little—both of which can be a source of distress.

With regards to your specific question, it is not uncommon to have breast growth that continues until your mid 20's (the average in the literature is 24 years). While this does not necessarily disqualify you for surgery, you should reach a plateau in terms of size prior to surgery.

It is important to remember that the breast is both gland and fat. Breast development is obviously hormonally sensitive; however, breast size will also be sensitive to weight gain/loss. Thus, your non-surgical options are limited to weight reduction (or discontinuation of medical hormone therapy/birth control).

Once stabilized, I would encourage you to seek out consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ASPS). In my experience, reduction patients are among the most satisfied, reporting a life-changing experience (for the better).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It would be helpful to know when you finished puberty. A breast reduction will help you, but it is best to know if you are fully developed prior to having a breast reduction.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Being very large breasted is as much of a problem, if not more, than being too small. It really is a choice that you and your parents need to make. This surgery I do is an outpatient procedure. You would need to be in the area for as little as four days.

Published on Jul 11, 2012