Breast Reduction: Stories

Like most, since I made the decision to move forward with the reduction, I have been pouring through this site reading everyone's stories non-stop, lol. It has been very informative and a little gruesome honestly, but at least I know what to expect.

About me - I am 37, 5' 7" and 155lb. I have wanted a breast reduction since my mid twenties and even went so far as to have a consultation with a surgeon. He refused my surgery saying that I was too young, single and hadn't had my children yet. He indicated the scars may be too invasive for a girl my age still "dating". I left the office feeling very confused, angry and disappointed.

Fast forward a decade including marriage, 2 50lb pregnancies, breastfeeding and I am thankful that doctor told me to wait although I couldn't understand it at the time. It turns out that I was a fabulous milk producer which enabled me to not only lose fifty pounds twice, but to produce enough milk to feed my children as well as donate to mom with a newly adopted baby.

My boobs have definitely done their job. Now I'm ready to lose the 15 pounds I've gained since I stopped breastfeeding (sighhhh really miss that daily 1000 calorie burn), get back into shape and maybe even enjoy wearing a swim suit - or at least be able to find one that isn't offensive!

I had my initial consult a couple weeks ago (2/26 I think) and realized that I would not be able to qualify for my insurance to pay so I am a private pay at this point which is nice because you get right in - no waiting. I had my pre-op on 3/5. I brought in pictures of the boobs I'd like to have - size, shape, etc. and went through the do not eat or take list. I am ready.....12 days of waiting and wondering and waiting......

3 more days! A little worry, a little anxiety, excitement all going through my mind. Does anyone have any tips for speeding recovery and how to avoid separation of the incisions or is it just luck of the draw?

OMG, the c-o-u-n-t-d-o-w-n!

I check in at 8:45 tomorrow morning.. . . .

Just finished and now recovering in the hotel. The incisions on the bottom are the only thing that hurts but the two Percocets I just took are working:)

Little nap now. Will load after pics tomorrow after post op.

Just finished and now recovering in the hotel. The incisions on the bottom are the only thing that hurts but the two Percocets I just took are working:)

Little nap now. Will load after pics tomorrow after post op.

I am back home now and a little sore. I need to take a shower but I am afraid! Afraid to look, afraid to take the bra off, afraid to put the ointment on but I know I'll feel better afterwards.

I think the most uncomfortable part is trying to lie in bed propped up. It really doesn't feel great on my back. I have more range of motion in my arms than I thought I would - I can brush my hair, teeth and put contacts in which is more than I could ask for!

I am attaching the before picture now and will post an after when I get the nerve to shower and take a picture!

The shower wasn't that bad. I got in with the gauze stuck on and just let the warm water loosen them up and they fell right off. I was even able to wash my hair!

Day 4 post op. No percocet for over 24 hours. I have decided incision pain is much more tolerable that narcotic constipation! That and propped up back sleeping! If I could poop and roll over, I would be in heaven, lol.

I'm still quite swollen and have some bruising coming in which doesn't bother me. I'm having the strangest nipple sensations that I have finally realized is the exact feeling of milk letdown I had while nursing so I guess those pieces still work.

My incisions seem fine and I continue to wash them in the shower every day and use my ointment. My next post op is Wednesday so I'll see what's next. Looking forward to seeing the swelling subside!

Post op day 5. Went to the bathroom! Yay! Seriously, everything else is minor. Sleeping upright is the most uncomfortable position and I seem to be very stiff each morning. After a nice warm shower though, I feel much better. Incisions look good to me. Still very swollen - especially under my arms. It looks like I have side boob which I never had. This can go away anytime, lol. Other than a couple grumbles, I am really ok. I am driving again. Slowly I am returning to normal routines - just slower...

Just added day 12 photos. My right side is still more swollen then the left. I was hoping that would go down by now, but hasn't...Left side is looking amazing - just perfect, lol. I hope the right will catch up soon.

Other changes include side sleeping (yay!) and less discomfort. I still tire easily and try to take a nap each day. Other than continued swelling and bruising, I feel good.

Well here I am at three weeks officially. The changes at this stage seem to be so gradual to the point of being annoying and frustrating. I think they look better, but I'm still lop sided, swollen and sore. My incisions look good but I find that ripping the tape off irritates delicate forming scars so I am giving them a few days break here and there to breathe.