Study Reports Reduction Mammoplasty may Benefit Adolescents

A recent study analyzed the indications, complications and long-term outcomes of reduction
mammoplasty on teenagers
Recent reports indicate that the number of reduction mammaplasties or breast reduction surgical
procedures being performed on teenage patients is going up. High rates of childhood obesity or
increased body awareness are identified as the reasons for this trend.
Researchers from Sheffield Childrens Hospital in England recently published the results of their
study conducted to evaluate how reduction mammoplasty impacts teenagers. The indications,
complications and long-term outcomes of the procedure were analyzed to assess the effect of the
procedure on adolescents.
Successfully performed, breast reduction surgery results in smaller, firmer, lighter, and more
evenly proportioned breasts. This treatment provides women relief from the pain and physical
discomfort caused by large breasts. The results are almost permanent if not affected by weight
gain, pregnancy, or weight loss.
The key points of the Sheffield Childrens Hospital study are as follows

The researchers performed a retrospective review of 36 females less than 19 years of age
(mean age, 17.4 years) who had undergone unilateral or bilateral reduction
mammaplasty
Details on patient demographics, mechanical and psychological symptoms and
postoperative complications were compiled
A qualitative prospective questionnaire study was performed between five and 13 years
post surgery
Responses were rated using the Likert Scaling system for assessing the surgery benefits
The most common pre-surgery mechanical symptoms noted were back and neck pain,
difficulty sleeping and intertrigo
Pre-surgery psychological complaints included increased self-consciousness, low selfesteem, depression and bullying
Physical and psychological improvement following surgery and follow-up were identified
An instant resolution of mechanical symptoms were experienced by 67 percent of females
and 47 percent reported improvement in psychological symptoms

The researchers concluded that Reduction mammaplasty is especially beneficial in this group of
patients as they suffer increased psychological comorbidities versus their adult counterparts.
Patients need to be adequately assessed and counseled for optimal outcome.

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