Neng

Can't Wait to Get Rid of Them! - New York, NY

Insurance approved the surgery 6 months ago but I had to travel and also needed to have no doubt in my mind that I wanted to go through with the surgery. I did try acupuncture, physiotherapy and other non surgical interventions, but my back and shoulders were not getting better. I think psychologically too, I was ready for smaller breasts. My boyfriend did come round and has been with me every step of the way (including emptying the drains!). I also think that a discussion with my PS helped him to understand the procedure and to accept that it was inevitable. The PS also assured him that he would do as much as he could to try and save my nipples so that they do not lose sensitivity. So far so good. As for my back, I am on pain killers so I am not yet sure if the lack of pain can be attributed to them or it is a result of less breast weight.

I have not posted on this site since August 2012. So many things have happened since then. I finally had surgery on Monday, March 4, and I am at home recovering. I am surprised at how well everything went and at the recovery progress. My surgery was at the New York Presbyterian hospital, and I could not have been under a better team of doctors and nurses. I went home on the same day and was given instructions on how to care for the drains, which the doctor left on for a week. He will remove them during my first visit scheduled for Tuesday. I like the way my breasts look and I am really pleased with my PS. I have been able to shower and there is little swelling so far. The hospital gave me extra surgical bras for changing, as I am required to wear one all the time. Sleeping on my back has been a big challenge, but I am beginning to slightly to turn and lie on the right side. I am optimistic that things will be much better in a week or two. I am extremely grateful to all the ladies who have posted their experiences, for giving me the courage to take this step.

This is so helpful and thanks so much for the encouragement. I am already feeling so much better than I did before I joined this forum!

Thank you so much. This is so encouraging!

I am so excited to read your encouraging words. I am 53 years old and I am a size 36 N. I suffer from backaches, shoulder aches, my arm feels numb at times and my doctor has recommended BR. I have been to a PS and he is ready to proceed with the surgery as soon as I am ready. My only problem is my boyfriend, who is very much in love with my breasts and cannot imagine me going through a reduction. When I complain that I cannot get a good bra size, he suggests custom fitting and has said that I should use all other means, except BS to relieve my back and should pain. For me, breast reduction is not just about the pain, it is about relieving the stress on my shoulders and being able to exercise with less difficulty. Can anyone tell me how to deal with my boyfriend to make him support me? A second question is, I work in an office, how long will it be before being well enough to return to work, if all goes well?