At Almost 3 Weeks Post-op, It Was Definitely Worth It for Me... - Ohio
I developed big breasts at age 12, as a result I...
I developed big breasts at age 12, as a result I was never comfortable with having large breasts and spent most of my life trying to hide them; unfortunately 38DDs cannot be hidden. After gaining and losing about 60 pounds twice in my life, I felt like I had 2 baloons that had been inflated and deflated one too many times--severe ptosis and stretch marks. My most recent gradual healthy weight loss had brought me to an ideal weight, but my 36DDs were not going to get any smaller (or any higher on my chest) by working out more, and the weight of my breasts put a major strain on my neck and shoulders, and if my bra was too tight, I'd get headaches as well. I was constantly aware and self-concious about my breasts.
About a year ago I started seriously thinking about a breast reduction. I began by googling images of before and after photos and was amazed at the work that could be done; I asked a doctor I respect to refer me a few names of local surgeons and researched them, settled on one and had a consult in Oct. 2010.
We submitted to my insurance company to see if they would cover the procedure and though it took about 2 months for them to reply, they did approve it, and so in January I scheduled it for 2-23-11. It's still very early in recovery for me, but so far I am thrilled to feel free of 36DDs and very content with what should end up being a 36C. I am excited to be able to do more exercise, like now jogging or running without feeling like the weights on my chest are holding me back; I also cannot wait to be able to buy some tops that I could never have worn before (halters, strapless, one-shoulder) because of all the "engineering" required to reign in my old breasts!
I read the help guides on this site by Kimmers25 back in January and they were an immense help in knowing exactly what to expect and I feel like there were no surprises throughout my whole experience thus far.
The only minor cons so far are that the incisions are a little longer than I thought, but they will also take months to heal; my doctor was clear that it would take at least 9 months to see the real results, so it requires patience. Also I have experienced a small amount of numbness along part of my incisions/scars, but I knew beforehand that was a normal side effect and possibility.
Just a note on the cost I listed: as I stated my...
Also, anyone in the area (northern Ohio) that is interested in who the surgeon was, you can message me if you like.
Also...I wish I could have edited the original review...I misspelled balloons! ;)
Replies (48)

Thanks so much for posting your story on RealSelf. I'm glad you were able to get your breasts to a comfortable size. Have fun shopping for new tops!
The scars fade nicely over the first year so no worries there. Massage those scars consistently and that really helps. Mine are almost completely gone. Just a fine little white line now.
The numbness also goes away. I really noticed a big change at a year post op.


I wear a best form sports bra because my Dr. said I needed the support for my breast and also the liposuction that was done. If you buy that bra let me tell you that you need to buy a couple of sizes bigger. I needed to buy a size 42(believe me it's still very tight)and my usual size is 38. Maybe my bra is too tight, maybe that's why they are still so hard and swollen? If somebody as any suggestions please let me know
Massage the breasts twice a day. That will help soften them up and make you more comfortable.

Would you mind sharing the name of your surgeon?
thx!!!
OMG your breasts look amazing! Nice and perky and where they should be..LOL
You must be feeling wonderful and proud. The scars will continue to fade so don't worry. It does take a good year though.
Thank you for posting your pics. It is extremely helpful for women to be able to see this process.

I bought a few regular bras and they fit perfectly into a 36C, which is what I had hoped for with the result.
Nice! That is a perfect size :) Don't you find yourself staring at them in the mirror:) It is almost hard to believe they are yours when you look. I can remember that feeling and I was on cloud 9 with excitement. And I was really excited that they did not hang to my waist when I stood naked.
Oh yes and let's not forget about the nipples pointing two different directions...Gads!
Your doctor did an amazing job!! They are perfect:)


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