Breast Reduction: Stories

Hello! I'm new to this site, but I've been checking it out for for a while and thought I would share my story. I am 33, 140 lbs with DDD-DDs...waaaay too big for my frame. I was pretty average in high school - it wasn't until college that I really developed. I have been self conscious (and VERY uncomfortable) for as long as I can remember and I'm really tired of the jokes, neck/shoulder pain and of course the stares and everything else that comes with large, sagging boobs. Everyone thinks it should be great having big boobs - but it's not! I can't wear a bathing suit or strapless bra because there is no support, and working out is not fun because no sprots bra (or two) is ever enough. I feel like I'm controlled by my boobs - I can't even pick out the clothes I want because I need to wear what fits, or covers up, my boobs. I feel like I"m not really being myself. I've thought about a breast reduction but honestly never thought my insurance would cover it and I didn't want to drain my savings account. Finally, a good friend had a breast reduction last summer and after talking to her and hearing about her experience - I made an appt with her PS. I was scared, but he's great and I've heard nothing but good things about him from other people I trust - not just as a surgeon but as a person. I felt comfortable with him and his nurse. I was also happy with his before/after pics - just how I want to look! My PS and his nurse were incredibly helpful - they answered all my questions (well, the ones I could remember seeing how nervous I was!) and they sent all my paperwork and photos to my insurance company. After two weeks - I was approved. I couldn't believe it! I also have a very understanding (female ;) ) boss and enough sick time to cover my recovery time. Whew! First big hurdle...done!

My surgery is scheduled for Jan. 4. I scheduled it two months ago and haven't really thought about it until now. I'm starting to get nervous and anxious - but also excited to get it behind me. My family lives out of town, but my mom will be with me for my surgery and will stay for a few days. My sister-in-law is also coming to stay with me after my mom leaves (so sweet!) I'm soooo grateful for the help since I live alone.

I'm nervous because so much i sunknown and I've never had any kind of surgery - other than oral surgery. This site and your stories have made me feel less anxious and more prepared about what to expect. I still have a lot on my mind - for instance, the swelling. I keep hearing about arnica? Did anyone have success taking it? I'm also nervous about how I will shower and do my hair since I can't lift my elbows above my shoulders for 3 weeks (according to the packet from my PS). How long before most of you could lift your arms? Does it depend on your own healing?

I'm also concerned about scarring - I'm single and I worry that it will be a turn off for some guys (in which case - they're not the guys for me!) but still - I worry about the scars and how they will look. My PS is doing the anchor incision - around the nipple, down the middle and underneath. Any recommendations for a good scar cream? I'm trying to stock up on items I will need for recovery now - before the craziness of the holidays and the end-of-the-year hectic work schedule - I'll take any suggestions for a smooth recovery!

I can't believe I will have small, perky boobs in a few weeks - I've been thinking about this for so long that I can't beleive it's actually going to happen! I just have to get through the surgery!