Breasts: They Come In All Shapes & Sizes / Question
Published: January 15, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I was just wondering when the growth of your breast stops? I'm 16, so have mine stopped growing?
Signed: So, Have Mine Stopped Growing
Dear So, Have Mine Stopped Growing,
At 16, it is a strong possibility that your breasts have not stopped growing. There are four stages of breast development:
1) The breast begins with an early "breast bud", a firm "knot" of tissue under the areola (dark circle)
2) Fat deposit begins as the bud expands
3) Breast takes on more adult shape but areola is a separate mound from the breast
4) Breast is adult shape
It is important to realize that your ultimate breast size is determined by your genetic makeup, which means that your breast size cannot be changed by pills, creams, or special diets or exercise. Also, after the onset of puberty, breasts usually grow for up to fours years, but some girls experience growth for up to ten years.
For more information, please see How Does A Breast Grow, Program to Increase Breast Size, Asian Breast Concern, and 14 and Hardly Any Breasts.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
In the 
