Dr. Pitcher was great from the consult to my final visit. He was very informative and was able to answer all my questions. I was very nervous about the procedure during my consult and by the time I left I was completely at ease. The results were amazing. He even changed his personal schedule around because I made a mistake the morning of my surgery. I highly recommend him and will go back for any future needs.
I am absolutely thrilled with my breast augmentation. I was very nervous for the initial consultation. Showing my body and talking about my body, the parts that I don’t like, is hard for me. Plus I had been told by another plastic surgeon that breast implants would look very unnatural and “not good at all” on me, due to my breasts being set very far apart and that my chest was concave in the center. This was devastating to me. I had waited (I have wanted breast implants for about 18 years) for when I was mentally ready, financially able, done having kids, my family was supportive… and to be told it wasn’t even fixable. That my breasts, that I hated, were really that bad… I wasn’t going to get a second opinion, but when I spoke with my Doctor, she told me to contact your office. Dr. Pitcher addressed the issues the other surgeon had told me about, but he didn’t think it meant that there couldn’t be improvement through breast augmentation… I wasn’t looking to be perfect or walk around naked in front of people, I wanted an improvement from what I saw in my body… He made that happen and I am so very grateful. The staff at the surgery location were amazing, I was so nervous and they put me at ease… As a mother, I found myself having a LOT of anxiety and guilt, since it was an elective surgery. All of my follow up appointments went great and my questions were always answered very thoroughly. For anyone who has similar anatomy and/or has been told they would not be a good candidate for breast augmentation, I hope that they find your office!
I'm 45, mother of twins and I've been thick around the waist my whole life. When I try to lose weight I do lose little around my waist and back but I also lose in my butt, legs, arms, neck, face....basically everywhere else gets skinny and I still have a large waist. I had twins 10 1/2 years ago which didn't help my body situation. I've basically been the same weigh for 20 years, 8 lbs lower and about 7 lbs higher. I only gained 25 lbs with my pregnancy. I've wanted to have a trim waist my whole life and now it's my time!!! I went to my consultation with Dr Pitcher today and I was pleased with him and his price. I scheduled surgery for Jan 3rd and I'm excited but terrified. Mostly worried about the pain, recovery and having the stamina to get back to work a couple weeks after the procedure. Wish me luck!!Updated on 9 Dec 2017: Updated on 19 Dec 2017: I've been unbelievably nervous and anxious. I sent this wish pic to my plastic surgeon. I've attached it here. I asked if the doctor could call and talk to me about the results I'm hoping to get. I tried to find someone with similar body structure as me (i.e. no waist). The patient care coordinator gave it to him last week and she told me today he's going to call by the end of the day Thursday. I didn't want to waste his time by taking up and appointment but rather felt a simple picture and brief conversation would be good enough. My husband's impression of our initial consultation was that I would have similar results but I think my nerves are getting the best of me. My surgery is 2 weeks from tomorrow. I would think if he looked at the picture of what I'm expecting and if he wasn't on the same sheet of music then he would have called right away and given me a different price for more time in the OR. As you all know, this is a lot of money to spend to not get the results you want. Keep your fingers crossed!!Updated on 29 Dec 2017: I had my pre-op with the PA today. Medications prescribed. I still need to get a binder. Surgery set for 9:15 on Wednesday (1/3) at 9:15. I need to be there at 8. I can’t wait for this day. I’m so excited but very nervous. I hope I get what I want. Here are more before pictures. My PS said because I’m short waisted he can give me as much of a waist but he’ll get the fat out and tighten me up. My scar will also be higher because I have a gallbladder scar that needs to be completely removed. Otherwise I’ll have blood supply problems. Keep your fingers crossed!!Updated on 2 Jan 2018: Surgery in the morning!! I need to be there in 8 hours. So excited and nervous. Prayers appreciated! :-)Updated on 3 Jan 2018: I got home about an hour ago. My PS said he took 1,800 ml of fat and my diastasis was 4 inches so that will really help with the waist. I have horrible intolerance to pain meds. I itch and hives. It was awful immediately after surgery. They treated me with Benadryl. So now I’m on Tylenol and Valium which helps but I’m still in quite a bit of pain. My husband said my doctor is really pleased with my results. I know it will take months for the end result. I keep falling asleep trying to write this post so I’m going take a rest.Updated on 8 Jan 2018: Saturday evening 1/6 I was having pain on my left hip. I decided to try to take part of my garment off to see if I could see if everything was ok. Both sides had red skin and a big blister on the left hip. I called my PS and told him I thought my garment was maybe too tight and he said that may be why that happened. He told me to take off my garment for 12-24 hours and get a bigger one. I wish my PS would have had me bring it in prior to surgery to ensure a proper fit. Oh well, at least my incisions and my drains look good. I still have so much swelling. I took my first shower and put my new garment on afterward. I feel better today. So far I don’t need anything other than Tylenol for pain.Updated on 10 Jan 2018: I saw the PA yesterday. Everything is looking good. The blister is much improved. It still doesn’t hurt and we don’t really know why it happened. One drain should be able to be taken out on Friday. I’m hoping my swelling goes down a lot in the next week. As the swelling goes down I should be able to stand more upright. I still have to sleep in the recliner for another week which doesn’t bother me. The pain is manageable. I went one day without pain meds which I haven’t been able to maintain but that’s ok. I’m taking 1 Norco every 4-6 hours to keep the edge off the pain.Updated on 19 Jan 2018: I still have a lot of swelling between my belly button and scar and I still have drains in. They are still draining dark red blood. About 65 ml on the left and 35 ml on the right every 24 hours. The skin where I had those bright red marks is still painful but getting better. My PS and his PA that was in on my surgery have no idea where it came from or how it happened. It is kind of acting like a burn, it’s really weird. The left side is the side that had the big blister. It now looks like the country of Africa...haha. I’m going back to work on Monday. I still can’t stand up straight all the way. I’m kind of hunched over. I’m hoping the increased activity will help with the swelling but I fear it will make it worse. As soon as the swelling is down I should be able to stand up straight. I’m allowed to lay flat now so I slept in my bed last night! I had two pillows under my neck and none under my knees to try to stretch everything out. I actually slept pretty good!Updated on 27 Jan 2018: I went back to work on Monday. Days were long and swelling was worse at the end of the day. It was also a struggle to stand up straight all day. My back bothered me the most. I made it through the week and worked about 50 hours. I still have quite a bit of swelling and hardness above my scar. The PA said that’s normal and I should massage the area. I got one drain out this week and I’ll probably have the other one for a week or so. The areas on my hip (especially the left one where the big blister was) still hurt. The skin is very sensitive and is the source of most of my pain. I still can’t fit into my old clothes which is very frustrating but I’ll get there eventually. I’m sleeping really well in bed flat in my back. My back is really sore in the morning because I can’t sleep on my sides yet. Here are some updates photos taken today.Updated on 13 Feb 2018: I’m 6 weeks post op tomorrow. Everything has gone great and I’m healing well. I still have swelling at the end of the work days. Some days are worse than others. I’m so happy I did this and I’m thrilled with my results!!Updated on 22 Mar 2018:
I was so impressed w Dr Pitcher. He listened to my numerous *numerous* questions and concerns and fears. He took the time to even email with me. I would recommend him 100%. Without hesitation. My situation was unique in that I needed a breast implant revision. One that was complex but doable. All the doctors I visited with before Dr Pitcher did not address my concerns and goals. I had a poor experience when I first selected my implants. I was talked into going way too big and I carried that embarrassment for 7 years. I felt disproportionate and couldn't be as active as before implants. It took a heavy toll on my self image and confidence. Pre-revision, I was in constant pain. Not only were the implants heavy and they affected my posture poorly, but I was also experiencing sharp pains like nerve pain in my breasts. When I explained to Dr Pitcher what I needed (as small as possible but still perky), he gave me realistic expectations but also gave me hope. I knew my body would respond well to the right size implant (I have good skin elasticity and have never breast fed so I knew my tissues would shrink up appropriately). I literally obsessed about this for 3-4 years. Constantly researching, wishing I could just take them out. I hated them. Post revision: I was immediately relieved.... Dr Pitcher was able to achieve everything I was looking for. He went from 450cc to 285cc, kept the same pocket (over the muscle) just tightened the pocket. I felt immediately lighter in my mind. The pain was gone. The weight was gone. I didn't get to see them for 2 days but when I unwrapped the surgical dressing, I almost cried because I was so relieved. They looked perfect already, and they continued to improve as my skin shrunk around the smaller implant. I was debating if I would completely remove my implants or go to a smaller implant. I chose to trust Dr Pitcher's expertise and let him chose as small as he could create. And even my husband said, my boobs look even better now than before. I cannot say enough good about my experience. The sharp pains were apparently due to my implant flipping over. So he obviously fixed that. I wanted more space between my boobs (didn't want a butt crack on my chest but didn't want the Grand Canyon either). I'm a runner, CrossFitter, yogi who likes to be active so the large size got in my way with all those activities. He nailed it 100% on size and placement. He was so patient with all my worries. I must have sent him 50+ goal pictures (some unattainable which he kindly pointed out) and he helped me go into surgery with the right mindset but hopeful. I'm so thankful I found him. I'm so thankful for his expertise and bedside manner. I'm back to all my activities. And my confidence is growing everyday. I am happy and content, accepting of my body. I can't say thank you enough!!!
I am 45 yrs old and have wanted to have a breast reduction for several years. I kept saying after I lose weight....well I lost about 20 lbs this year and did not want to wait any longer. It is a bit ironic - as a teenager I was a late bloomer and I was worried in 8th grade when I was still flat chested. I have always been busty as an adult, even at my thinnest. After I gave birth to triplets and breastfed for over a year I was huge and never got any smaller. I use to be so proud of my beautiful breasts, but now hated them. I had constant back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder groves and rashes under my breasts. They sagged like I was many decades older than I am. I was miserable. My bra size I wore before surgery was a 38DDD, but I know it was not the proper size. I live in a small town and my chest measures 34. I would ask for the biggest cup size, and they would always be too small. I left more than one bra store in tears. Having such difficulty finding bras to fit, I refused to order a bra online or through mail order. When I was measured last they measured me as a 34K. I am hoping to be a 34/36D. My surgery was on December 27th and I am so happy I had the procedure done. I had some problems with anesthesia and breathing afterwards, but nothing overly concerning. Have had some issues with urine retention, having a hard time getting these going and don't ever feel like my bladder is emptied fully. After 48 hours I figured this is a side effect of the pain meds. So, I have been trying wean myself off my pain meds. I certainly don't need to end up with a bladder infection. I will post pictures after I get this posted. Good luck to all those that have an upcoming surgery, or to those that are still recovering! It has been great to have found this site and to be able to share stories. Happy New Year and so excited to have new smaller boobs :) Updated on 1 Jan 2014: Had my first post-op appointment yesterday. Surgeon is very pleased with how I am healing. He says I should end being a big C/small D. I was really hoping to be a D as when I lose my weight I won't end up being to small. We shall wait and see. Have some puckering under at the scar site but the surgeon is not concerned. He explained that it will smooth out, and if the scars are completely smooth to start they heal with and indentation in the middle. So I am trusting he is right and all will be good. He ended up removing 3 pounds from right breast and 2 1/2 pounds from left. Since my appointment I have already thought of more questions, so I will be calling them tomorrow. Updated on 1 Jan 2014: Here are some pre-op pictures. Updated on 1 Jan 2014: Here are some post-op pictures. Hopefully they will be helpful to others. I know they will help me to see my progress and see how far I have come. Updated on 1 Jan 2014: Here are a few more... Updated on 3 Jan 2014: Well today is 1 week since surgery. Doing pretty good. Went grocery shopping today for a bit, and boy did that wear me out. I think I may try to get out a little each day. I feel as though I am healing well, but really have nothing to compare it to. So, thanks ladies for all the positive comments. It is nice to hear from others and it is so encouraging :) Am getting some shooting pains towards my back when changing positions at night. Thinking this is probably nerve pain from the lipo under arms. Everyday I am looking and feeling better. Am still having blurred vision, hopefully that will get better since I am no longer taking pain pills. No longer feeling like I have to sleep all day. Next week I will probably be bored to death. Working on some knitting projects so that helps the time go by quickly. I am posting another picture from today. I really need to have my husband take another picture as it is difficult to make sure I am holding the camera and still standing straight. Right breast seems to be a bit larger than the left so I take this as a good sign that maybe some of the swelling is starting to go down in the left. Also. I don't think I look as boxy, but then again maybe I am just getting use to the new "Me". Updated on 4 Jan 2014: I am doing great and getting use to the new me. Still pretty sore but tolerable just taking Tylenol. I have a tiny place under my breast that doesn't even look like it was stitched. It is where the scab fell off. It looks great and hopefully and indication of what the rest of my scars will look like eventually. I am still getting blurred vision, so I don't know what is up with that. I just went to the eye doctor about a month ago. Still giving it time before I go in again. I did notice that I have nipple sensation so that is great news. My hubby is so afraid to even touch me in fears of hurting me - but he really has been so fantastic and supportive. I can tell I am slowly getting my energy back. Yesterday and today I didn't even take a nap. I am still taking it very easy so I don't overdue things. I tried on some of my old clothes today. Some I can still wear, others I can't, and then others where it makes me think I am really anxious to exercise and tone my stomach more. Not sure if I have mentioned this yet - but I have lost 10 lbs since surgery! That makes me oh sooo happy! I have even lost an additional 4.5 pounds since surgery a week ago. Just don't have much of an appetite. I was wondering if I would gain weight after surgery from immobile - or lose weight from not feeling well. That's about it for today. Happy healing to everyone! Updated on 5 Jan 2014: Woke up this morning feeling a bit more swollen, with that engorged feeling like when your milk is coming in. But all in all starting to feel great. My hubby took a picture today. I know it takes months, but wonder if someday I won't have permanent grooves in my shoulder. That will be a great! Feeling positive - it will be a great day today. Updated on 5 Jan 2014: Well ladies I went to Victoria Secret to see when their semi-annual sale is. Well it is happening now for the next couple of weeks. Bummer! I know I have to wait awhile I should be trying anything on. But the good news is - the lady measured me over my clothes which I know is a not all that accurate. Any way she measured me as 36DD. Makes me a happy camper as maybe I will end up a 34/36 D! Who knows. We shall see but for now I am doing the happy dance. Updated on 6 Jan 2014: Thought I would give all of you ladies a bit of a laugh. As I was waking up from a nap I started getting sharp pains on my left breast. I thought if I rearrange my breast that would help. So I went to grab my left breast with my right hand but it wasn't there - because I went to grab about 6 inches lower than where my new breast is! I started laughing so hard! Updated on 8 Jan 2014: Things are going well and I couldn't be more thrilled with my new breasts. If I could I would walk around the house with no bra all day I would. Quite a different feeling from being so embarrassed of my large pendulous breast prior to surgery. I was so worried about what they would look like after surgery, and I am very pleased so far. Not without imperfections though. I could be concerns for no reason....but I do have some puckering under left breast, and I am hoping I don't end up with a dog ear. I am not too concerned about my other scares but you would probably be able I see end of this scar in a bathing suit. Are there others that had this puckering, and it smoothed out later? I will post a picture. My other concern is my nipples. They are super sensitive, which I am hoping is a good thing - but still flat. I go from one extreme of having large nipples to flat ones. The color looks good, so I am just hoping it takes awhile from them to pop out. This will be a long update as I have a lot to say...so I trying out of the house daily to regain some strength and energy and went shopping yesterday. I was hoping to end up as. 36D, but even that size is fairly difficult to find. Had 38+ in D but not 36. So maybe if I end up a 36C I won't be terribly upset as I will then have lots or bras to choose from. I think may be getting zingers but thought it was a bit early for that. I get sudden sharp pains that last about 20 seconds then go away. They seem to be in the middle of my breasts. I also noticed that I can not tolerate cold drinks as I can literally feel the coldest go down my throat and straight to my breasts and get a sudden rush if sensitivity in my breasts. Kind of a weird feeling - so I think I will just go without cold drinks for awhile. It doesn't seem as if I am getting smaller with swelling going down yet, but I can definitely tell that my breasts have dropped a bit and are more soft. One side more than the other. So I imagine the swelling is going down, I just can't tell. What a great feeling not to have solid breasts anymore. So, I thought I would get out the tape measure to compare how big I was prior to surgery. I know I am smaller, but I was quite shocked. No wonder my back hurt so bad. I must have looked bigger than I thought. I wish I would have taken more before pics. I took a pic of with the tape measure to share with you all. Although I measured 34 inches around the ribcage, my breasts before surgery measured 49 inches. The picture tells it all. Yikes! Well that's about it for today. I am posting a few pictures. Let me know what you think about the puckering. All in all I am thrilled, but definitely will ask the PS when I see him again in a couple weeks. Hope you are all having a good week. Happy healing! Updated on 8 Jan 2014: I accidentally hit submit before posting other pics. Updated on 8 Jan 2014: Not sure what happened but here is the shocking picture I spoke about in my update today. Can't even believe I was that much bigger. My chest measured 49 inches and my ribcage measured 34 inches. Yikes! No wonder I feel so small now. Sorry about all different posts. I hope to have better luck next time. Updated on 9 Jan 2014: I will be 2 weeks tomorrow. Can't believe it has gone so quickly. Have to go back to work on Monday. Not to thrilled about that, but I am sure I will be just fine. So I started feeling the sharp pains in the middle of my breast - possibly what you ladies on the site call zingers. But even more bothersome is how super sensitive my nipples are. I cringe when I really cold (which happens a lot) and am not able to drink anything cold. Called the PS today and he suggested that I start massaging my nipples to help desensitize them. We will see if that helps. Any other suggestions lady to help it be more tolerable? Also, how long can I anticipate this to last? I am happy that my nipples have feeling at this early stage, and encouraged that it has to be a good sign that healing is coming along as expected. My breasts are still sore, have that engorged feeling still...but am no longer needing to take Tylenol. All in all I am still thrilled withy progress and hope it continues to go smoothly. Just so thankful for this site, as it is helpful to hear from those that have been there, done that, etc. You ladies are wonderful and so encouraging. Happy healing everyone! Updated on 10 Jan 2014: Can't believe it has already been 2 weeks since surgery. This week has been much better. Well overall I had not had too much pain, and it has been easier than I thought it would be....I am much more alert and not sleeping as much. I am so incredibly happy I had this surgery. The scabs around my nipples are flaking off, so now they are a bit read. But I am thinking the incisions are looking pretty good. I will post my 2 week picture. I had a little bit if soreness into back between my shoulder blades today. This is the first time I had any type of back pain since surgery so that is great news. I did not sleep well last night so I am thinking this had something to do with it. Also I went to lunch with a work friend for the 1st time since surgery. Of course it is hard not to stare and wonder how I look, so I subconsciously found myself in my old ways of slouching my shoulders forward. I also think I was doing this as to protect my hypersensitive nipples from the cold. I am going to have to make a conscious effort of not being ashamed, and sitting up straight. Part of me just wants to show the whole world my new boobs to get all the looks out of the way. LOL. I have been so thrilled not to have back pain, I just need to make sure I keep it that way. :) I have been so thrilled with my results and have really positive thoughts. I guess today is the first time I am a bit concerned. I did not have FNG but my nipples still remain pretty flat. I went from one extreme of having large nipples from breastfeeding (which I hated) to flat nipples. I am nervous they will remain flat and haven't really read that other ladies have this concern. I have feeling in them which is great, and I think the color is good. Would like to hear from others that have had this happen. How long does it take to improve? If they remain flat is this something that can be fixed? I guess we all have to have some bit of worry, right? Hope everyone has a great weekend. Updated on 12 Jan 2014: Not a good day...I have not felt as well the past couple of days. In a lot more pain than I had been. Not as many zingers. Just a constant ache that is painful. I have also had chills off and on all day. I had a low grade fever but never over 100 degrees. I read many of you have had a difficult time around this point (16 days post op) so I have really been taking it easy. I am going to go to bed soon as I need to get a good night sleep before working tomorrow. Hoping for a better day tomorrow. Updated on 15 Jan 2014: Started back to work this week. I am not as tired as I thought I would be which is pretty amazing. There were days when I would come home from work before surgery and I would be exhausted. I think my large breasts were bothering me more than I even know. I am having quite a bit of discomfort. It doesn't seem as if I am doing too much. Just walking around seems to causes a lot of strain on my horizontal stitch. Had a low grade fever also so I went to the PS today. All is good, but he wants me to keep a close eye on things. I love my PS office. They seem like they truly care and are so compassionate. After I left I started thinking what an awesome job they have to help so many woman with all their back pain issues and also help them feel beautiful again. I am so happy. Once I am finished recovery, it will truly be a life changing experience. I am so happy I had the surgery. Just wish I had done it so many years ago. Updated on 15 Jan 2014: I am posting an updated picture with no scabs. Yeah! Not only do I hope these pictures help other women see how quickly things can progress, they also encourage myself and remind me how far I have come in such a short period of time. Still have some redness still but I think things are looking pretty good. Two more days and I can't believe it will already be 3 weeks since surgery. I can't even imagine how good I will look and feel in 3 more weeks. Still a bit anxious to see how I will look with no swelling, and to know what my final bra size will be. Whatever it is I will be thrilled. Have an appointment with PS on Monday. I think he will talk to me about massage and when I can start using scar treatment. I am excited about that as I can tell my skin around my scars is really dry, and I will feel like I am doing something to have the best possible result in the end. Updated on 15 Jan 2014: I guess I have so much on my mind that I forgot to tell you another reason why I posted a new picture....I was a bit concerned about my nipples being so flat. Well looks like they are starting to come out from hiding and are starting to pop out a bit. I was excited! Updated on 16 Jan 2014: I was a bit nervous going back to work this week wondering if anyone would say anything. No one has said anything expect for my co-workers that knew I was having surgery. Today my boss was in town and she mentioned how great I looked and what a difference it has made to my overall appearance. She stated she didn't know what it was but I look so healthy and have a look like I am well rested and have a lot of energy. These comments really made my day. I guess I just didn't realize how my large breasts affected not only my pain level but my overall appearance to others. And she said this even with me still exhibiting quite a bit of discomfort at work. I feel so happy, and so beautiful again. This is one if the best decisions I have ever made. I just regret not doing it years ago. I would encourage anyone thinking about a breast reduction to seriously consider it. It will change your life. I just don't know how I could ever thank my PS enough for making such a difference in my life. :) Updated on 16 Jan 2014: Several of my shirts I can no longer wear as now they are too low cut, or fall off my shoulders. But I did find should old shirts that I barely wore years ago that I can now for into. I love it! Updated on 17 Jan 2014: Well another week has home by and I can't believe it has been 3 weeks since surgery. I have more energy than expected, but in much more discomfort this week. Thank goodness I have read from other ladies that this can happen about 15-16 days after surgery. I have a post-op appt on Monday that I am quite excited about. Hopefully I will be able to start using bio-oil then, as I can tell my skin near the incisions lines is getting really dry. I am still thrilled my my new breasts. I will talk to the PS about the little imperfections that I notice and see what if anything I can do to improve these. It looks like a have a dog ear on my left breast in the outside and inside edge of the curve. Although getting better, will be asking him when I can expect my nipples to be back to normal. And I have quite a bit of redness under my breasts, not directly on my incisions but around then. Its as if the stitches are holding my breasts up but they are trying to tug and pull against the stitches. This is also where most if my discomfort is, along the horizontal incision line. I am also wondering how long I should feel discomfort. I seem to deal with pain and discomfort if I know what is expected. I will post some 3 weeks pictures. I have tried to taking some pictures from different angles, but a bit difficult taking them by myself. I think things are healing nicely. Not much difference this week but it has been so helpful to me and hopefully others to see the progress that has been made. I can't really tell how swollen I still am as I am not sure how my breasts will eventually be. Wishing everyone good luck with their upcoming surgeries and sending positive thoughts to all! Updated on 20 Jan 2014: Had my 3 week post-op appointment today. PS is very impressed with how well I am healing and said everything looks perfect. I have been cleared to wear any type bra I would like, and no longer have any exercise or lifting restrictions. Did say not to pay a lot of money for new bras as I still have swelling. But couldn't tell me how much smaller I will end up. I am currently a 36DD, which I am thrilled about. I know I have some swelling especially in the sides so I my guess is I will be a 36D. Then when I lose weight, if my breasts end up decreasing in size I won't end up too small. PS also said I could start using bio-oil or vitamin E oil if I would like, but doesn't know if it really makes a difference. He did mention that I could also use scar away silicone scar sheets or scar guard which is a gel and both he has seen good results. I would be interested to hear from the ladies here, and what seems to work and make a difference. He also said I no longer have to wear a bra 24/7 but I am a bit scared not to. I asked about the pain underneath my breasts and all is normal, but may take a couple months before I have no discomfort. Sounds as if everyone is different in regards to how long they have discomfort, but all is looking great and every week will be better. It may also take a couple months for my nipples not to be so flat. I am feeling better about them as they are starting to protrude, but he did warn me they may not end up as they were pre-op. I am not overly bothered by that, as they were quite large from breastfeeding. If I have some nipple...I am happy. It may be too early to tell, but I may end up with a couple dog ears. But PS assured me if it doesn't get better this is a simple fix in the office at no additional charge. I go back to the doctor in March....but don't anticipate many changes other than swelling decreasing and my discomfort lessening with time. Now I hope I can be an inspiration and encouraging to others. Having the BR surgery has truly changed my life. I am so happy! Just wish I would have done this years ago. :) Updated on 21 Jan 2014: So here is the 1st bra I will be trying out besides my sports bra. Doesn't fit perfectly, but I will wait to spend a lot of money until swelling goes down. This is a 36DD. I didn't think Iooked that big? How did I think Iooked so small after surgery? I have worn it all morning and so for so good! I brought my sports bra with me to work just in case I got too uncomfortable. Updated on 21 Jan 2014: When I went to the doctor yesterday all incisions were closed and looking good. There was an area yesterday that looked like a small white area like when a scab is wet. Then today I came home from work and there was dried and new blood along my horizontal scar on the left side. I cleaned the area and there is a red spot that looks pretty raw. It starts along the incision line and that goes upward. It isn't very big, but I am a bit concerned as yesterday everything looked perfect. I did use the silicone sheets for the 1st time but this is the only area that was affected so I don't think it is a reaction. Am I over reacting? I will post pics. The are strange angles but it wanted to get as clear of a picture as possible. Updated on 24 Jan 2014: Hard to believe it has been 4 weeks since surgery. At times it seems like yesterday, but then I realize how far I have come since the day of surgery. Still no back pain! I am thrilled more than you can imagine, as I have lived with daily back pain for more years than I can count. I was wondering how my back would feel after returning to work, but no pain even after working all day :). I am a bit more tired at work during the day, but I have not been sleeping well. I still wake up with a quite a bit of discomfort and feel like I am swelling in my sleep. But nothing compared to a couple weeks ago. So now instead of seeing daily improvements I have to look back and see how far I have come since last week. I am going to go bra shopping. I feel like if I had more support by breasts would not get so sore during the day. I don't notice that my swelling is decreasing. I can't wait until I am at my final size/shape. For now I just have to be patient and focus on the fact that I am so happy with my new breasts. It is nice to feel beautiful again! Hoping for a quick recovery to all the ladies that had surgery recently. I am posting my 4 week pics. I don't see as much difference this week, so maybe I will have to wait awhile before painting more. Until next time..,,happy healing! Updated on 31 Jan 2014: It has been 5 weeks today since my surgery. Hard to believe. What a week it has been. It has been a very stressful and long week at work, and I am so glad it is Friday. I am still having some discomfort with my horizontal incision but it is slowly getting better. I have found a couple non-wireless bras, to provide more support. They do seem to help with the soreness, but are not very comfortable after awhile and I have yet to be able to last the entire day. I then switch to my more comfortable sports bra that I have been wearing. I am contemplating getting the Marena B2 bra that has been recommended, but wondering if it will make any difference at this point since I am already 5 weeks post-op. I rarely have zingers anymore, but my nipples do seem a bit tender again the past couple days. I am able to drink cold liquids again without chills going straight to my nipples, so it is evident that things are healing. I have been using bio-oil and at times the silicone tape on my incisions. Not sure if it will make a difference as I heal well, but at least I feel as though I am doing something to achieve the best possible result. And the bio-oil feels so good. On Wednesday, my PS'a office had an open house in the evening, as they remodeled their office and they also have skin products that they were promoting. The great thing was that my PS was there. I wasn't going to talk to him about my progress, or ask any questions as it wasn't an actual appointment. But since he brought it up and was wondering if I had any questions. I did ask him about the discomfort and he reassured me that I am healing wonderfully and look great. He said we just don't realize how much we do with our chest and it just takes time for things to be back to normal. Also mentioned that it may take 2 months before the tenderness and swelling on the sides is back to normal. Don't have much tenderness there, but I can tell I am still swollen. My Mom came with me to the open house, and my PS proceeded to tell my Mom I am a star patient and he is thrilled with how well I am doing. I am so grateful for his expertise and told him so, and I so appreciate him...and how much it has made a difference in my life. He could visibly tell how happy I was. I was glowing. Although it is his profession I just wanted to express my gratitude, and it just felt like a good time to do that. I left there feeling great as he made me feel on top of the world expressing how well I have done, and I was also able to let him know how happy I am with my results. I know I have said this before but I really do love my boobs. I am so happy I am writing this review of what happened this week, as it is cheering me up as I write. I was playing around with pictures as it is so helpful to me to are how far I have come. Well I compared my pictures from day 5 post-op to today (week 5) and the difference is tremendous. I really didn't realize that I had changed that much. I feel as though I am not as swollen but my shape has certainly changed. I am not as boxy which great, but my breasts have obviously dropped some. Then I start wondering how much will I change in the next 5 weeks and if they will drop further. I love my boobs and don't want to change too much more. I hope they don't start to look like they sag. I am hoping I still look perky. I was wondering if I am still too big. At first I had this permanent cleavage look, and that is not as evident now. Although it was a nice look compared to where I came from, I would have had a difficult time finding a bra. Then I compared week to week pictures and there isn't much difference. So then I was happy again. I love my boobs, they make me feel beautiful again and I for the most part have had no back pain. They certainly are not perfect, as I think the right is a bit bigger than the left....but that is how I was before surgery and never noticed until my PS pointed it out to me :) I guess this is a lengthy update, so hope I have kept am everyone's attention. I did not feel as though I had much to talk about...but I guess I did. I may have to update more often. Congrats to all those that had surgery this past week. I hope that your recoveries continue to go well. I am truly excited for each and every one of you. I appreciate you all so much! Enjoy my pictures for the week :) Updated on 31 Jan 2014: As I was looking at the pictures I just posted...I was looking at the 5 day versus 5 week picture. I look bigger now than I did then only because I am no longer as swollen, and when I was so swollen I just felt like everything was so hard and compacted. No wonder why I felt like I was so small :) other than it being such a drastic difference. Updated on 2 Feb 2014: It has been a good weekend overall. I was quite tired yesterday ....more so than I have been since the first week of surgery. So I took it easy, and made sure I wasn't overdoing things. My discomfort it starting to lessen and doesn't really start bothering me unless I am too active. My nipples have been a bit more sensitive the past few days, but I think I am past the zinger stage. Started taking Bromelain to help with the swelling I have. Mostly on my sides, from lipo. PS said it may be a couple months before that swelling goes down, but I figured this may help a bit. I am not sure how long it takes to make a difference. But I think it may be helping a bit. Thanks for the tip ladies! Went to the movies yesterday with my boys, and today we will be getting ready for the Super Bowl. Go Broncos! Did I tell you how much I appreciate all of you! I do thank all of you for sharing your pics and I appreciate the ones that also show your faces, as it is nice to out a name with a face. I am not quite that brave. Thinking positive healing thoughts for all of you! Updated on 4 Feb 2014: I made it to the gym tonight and I feel so good. I only focused on lower body exercises, but it was great. My hubby was ready to go before I was. Now I can focus on losing some weight and strive for a body that will match the boobs that I love. Feeling great! Updated on 6 Feb 2014: Yesterday and today I have had hardly any discomfort. Not even my horizontal stitch. Until yesterday, I would go home from work and could hardly wait to get undressed and lie down. Not because I was tired, but it helped the discomfort. When I got undressed and did not have my bra last night while showering, getting dressed, etc. they started to ache. But much better than they have been. As has been the pattern, every week gets a little better. Did I say how excited and thrilled I am? :) I am hoping all you ladies have a good recovery also. It certainly has not been painless, but it has been nice to have a recovery without complications. Updated on 7 Feb 2014: How can it already be 6 weeks since my surgery? This week was a good week. I am back to work full time since 17 days post-op but this week I have worked full days without leaving early. I have not had nearly the discomfort that I was having. It wasn't significant the past couple weeks, but I definitely could see a difference. I have been sleeping on my side for limited periods of time, and overall sleeping better. I don't think my shape has changed too much this week, and still notice my right breast to be somewhat bigger than the left. But am completely okay with this as it was bigger before surgery and never noticed it until PS pointed it out. It is not very noticeable when standing in front of a mirror or when wearing a bra. I will wait awhile longer before I try on other bras. I wonder if I will end wearing 36/38D rather than DD. Although I am thrilled with my new boobs, I hate saying that I may be a DD after a breast reduction. I have noticed my scars are looking really nice, but the redness around my nipple scars are still pretty red. I have been using mostly bio-oil on my nipples and the silicone sheets on my other scars. I have used the silicone gel on the nipple scars but not sure I like it very much. Not sure of any of the scar treatment really makes a difference but it feels good to seem to be making a difference. My scars from other surgeries always healed well without scar treatment so I think a lot has to do with genetics and our overall health. I have never smoked, rarely drink, and eating healthy. Oh yea - I received my Marena B2 bra in the mail today. I should have ordered this long ago. I know many of us purchased the front closure sports bra from Walmart. They were soft and comfortable but since I am still a DD I did not feel as though I getting enough support after I was up and about more often. I do wonder if my discomfort wild have been less if I had purchased this earlier. It is a bit more expensive but I would definitely recommend it all you ladies. This next week I hope to make it to the gym more and start losing weight. My daughter is getting married in October so I have to look awesome by then ...if not by summer. :) Hoping everyone's recovery is going well. In the early stages it brings more discomfort, lots of questions, and the emotional roller coaster....but before you know it you will wonder where the time has gone. I still enjoy reading your updates and will continue to encourage each of you ladies. Take one day at a time, remember you at not alone and try to stay as positive as you can! Updated on 9 Feb 2014: Well today is the first day that my low back has hurt since my surgery. It was a reminder of the constant pain I had prior to my surgery. My 2 year old granddaughter spent the night last night, and I think we had too much fun. She loves running around the house and having Gma chase her. Also, at night she crawls in bed with us and I never sleep comfortably after that. I am hoping to sleep better to tonight and back to normal tomorrow. :) Updated on 10 Feb 2014: I am now 6 1/2 weeks post-op my incisions are really looking remarkable. They have been completely closed for quite some time. The incisions around my aerolas are a bit red, but definitely looking better. Now for the not so good....although I am not overly concerned I am at a loss. Yesterday I was a bit more achy so I wore my new Marena B2 bra all day. In the evening I noticed what looked almost looked like I had a blood blister about 1 cm to the left of my T junction on my right breast. So I put some antibiotic ointment on it and covered it today. Today it opened up and it is indented. It almost looks like a sore I had a 3 weeks but worse this time. I have not been wearing an underwire bra. I'm not overly concerned as the other sore healed well and I know what the dr suggested. It does not look infected and it is not right on the incision. It is actually to the left of the T junction and above the horizontal stitch. I just wish knew what was causing this, so I could potentially prevent this from happening. Any ideas lady? I will post some picture as well as my as a couple others. Updated on 10 Feb 2014: Updated on 11 Feb 2014: I am feeling a bit depressed today. This is the first time since surgery that I have felt like crying. These spitting stitches have just thrown a wrench my mood. I feel a bit more swollen today, and more achy than I have been. I have just been doing so great and my incisions look wonderful, except where I had the sore before mostly likely from a stitch. There are also a few questionable areas that may end up spitting stitches also. Hopefully the spitting stitches don't ruin my lovely scars. I had such a great week last week and have been feeling wonderful. I guess I am a bit bummed as I did not expect this 6 1/2 weeks after surgery. I have come so far and done great. This is just a small bump in my recovery. I don't even see this as a complication...and then I start feeling guilty for being a bit sad. But we are entitled to a bad day, right? Well I am going to get to sleep. Hoping I will wake up in a better mood tomorrow, and be back to my normal self with a positive attitude. Updated on 13 Feb 2014: Thought I would update all of you ladies regarding insurance denials. I have double coverage, as I am covered through my insurance as well as my husband's insurance. Prior to my surgery my insurance denied the surgery as a Breast Reduction, but my husband's insurance approved it. So I am thrilled that it was covered at all and all I would need to do is pay my 20% co-insurance as my deductible was already paid. Well I just got my Explantion of Benefits from my primary insurance and as expected they denied the bill from my surgeon. BUT they covered the all the other expenses associated with the surgery including the surgery center and anesthesiogist bill. I couldn't believe it. So in the end that would have saved me over a $1000. So, even if you get an insurance denial still have the providers submit it to your insurance. You never know they may just cover a portion. :) Updated on 13 Feb 2014: Happy Valentine's Day! My surgery was 7 weeks ago. This week has been full of emotion, which is not typical for me. After thinking I was through the hardest part and that it would be down hill from here...then to have spitting stitches really messed with my emotions. All is good and I am sure my body has not seen he last of spitting stitches. My sores are not infected so they really are not anything to be concerned about. They may leave my scars not being so pretty but I have been reassured that the scars can be fixed if needed. In the end I really care more about my perfect, perky, and the beautiful shape of my breasts than I do scars underneath my breasts that no one will see. I have been reminded once again that I have to be patient, and I can't expect perfection. I really have come so far in a short period of time. Less than 2 months ago I had extremely large hideous breasts that I hated. It is really amazing that my surgeon can transform my breasts into ones that make me feel beautiful. I sometimes look down at my breasts and have flashbacks to what they looked like when I was in my 20's before I was pregnant. Now that is a wonderful feeling! How many 45 year old can say that have breast of a 20 year old? Other than the spitting stitches I have felt really good. I have a tiny bit of discomfort at the end of the day when I take my bra off, but overall feel amazing and no longer reminded of the discomfort all day long. I have had a bit more swelling this week, but I think the swelling has again gone down. I posted a picture earlier this week and you can see the difference in one of my comparison pictures. And I am almost 2 cm smaller around my bust than I was yesterday. I had fun trying on some of my new blouses today and I am getting quite good at taking pictures of myself and have even figured out how to make myself look thinner :) And ladies guess what size the picture of me in the bra is??? I am a tad squished but it as 36D!!!! Yippee! At least I can fit into some 36D's. That gives me hope that this may be my final size after all the swelling is gone. But regardless I am thrilled but just had to share that with you ladies. I posted some more comparison pictures. I know I posted some of these before but it really helps me to see much of a difference each week can make....and hopefully this will inspire some of you. Well I best get this posted and hope everyone has an awesome week. Sorry I have not been more encouraging this week, but I am determined to be back to my normal, positive and encouraging self. Have an awesome Valentine's Day! Updated on 13 Feb 2014: Updated on 17 Feb 2014: My husband has been scared to touch my new boobs in fear of hurting me. I keep telling him I am fine and he won't hurt me. Well he went to touch me this evening...I think I was more startled but I winced under my breathe and he heard me. Darn it! Now I probably have scared him off for awhile longer. Anyone else's hubby afraid to touch you? Updated on 20 Feb 2014: It has been 8 weeks post-op and I am still so happy and thrilled I had my breast reduction. I am hardly feeling any discomfort anymore and can wear most bras without discomfort. The past couple days I am no longer bringing 2 bras to work just in case I have to change. I am still wearing my Marena bra at night. Tonight I noticed I am either less swollen or my bra is getting loser, as I had to tighten the hooks on the tightest ones. So ladies, I need your input and/or advice. For a couple weeks now I have been noticing that my incisions seem to be much redder than a few weeks ago...even more red than let's day week 3. Especially the incisions around my areolas. This past week it seems as though my scars even seem to be widening. I have been using Scar Away Silicone sheets and I just wondering it I am having a reaction. When they are not on I use bio-oil. I tried using some 3M paper tape, but it left red marks outlining the tape on my skin after wearing it for 8 hours. Even after a couple days I still notice some red marks. My other theory is that I am feeling so much better that now I am focusing on the little details. Before surgery I remember telling the PS that I was not concerned about the scars. I have always healed exceptionally well...so that was the least of my concerns at the time. Now that my surgeon was amazing and so very talented by making my breasts beautiful and perfect (at least I think so)....that now I also want perfect scars too. I am not as worried about the scars underneath as I am the ones around my areloas. My right areola also seems to have almost an indentation on the bottom. (I am attaching a picture). I have heard that some have scar revisions...but what does that entail. I know they won't always be so red, but why do they seem to be more red and getting wider? Is it from the swelling decreasing? Is there anything I could be doing now to help this? So what do you think? I would really appreciate your input and advice. Hope all is well for all ladies that are recovering. And good luck to the ladies that will soon have surgery. I so excited for each and every one of you, and hope it has changed your life for the better like it has mine. :) Updated on 28 Feb 2014: It has been 9 weeks since surgery. It has been a good week. I don't think the size/shape has changed for a few weeks. I am still so very happy I had the surgery. I did try to sleep without my bra one night. It did not work out too well. I would wake up and not feel very comfortable and almost achy. I will be wearing my bra for quite awhile still. But how I am use to it, so we will see if I become comfortable without one in the next few weeks. Although I love my size/shape, I am still not thrilled with my scars around my areola incisions. I know they will lighten with time, but they have seemed to widen too. I am attaching pictures. My scars were so thin and pretty...not so much anymore. Not sure why that happened. I see the PS on March 10th so I will talk to him to see what he thinks. I am thinking I will need a scar revision but not sure what that entails. Hope everyone is doing well. Good luck to all the ladies that are having surgery this week. There seems to be a quite a few. I am so excited for each of you. It truly is a life changing surgery and I get so excited for each of you. Have a good week and happy healing! Updated on 6 Mar 2014: It has been great week and I still love my boobs:) I wonder when I won't be so obsessed with them. I had my post-op appointment scheduled for next week, but they called and told me PS was in surgery that day so I was lucky and was able to have my appointment a week early. PS is very pleased with my result, and said I am healing wonderfully. He didn't know why the incisions around my right nipple is so much redder, although he did not seem concerned and said it can take up to a year for fading to take place especially since I am so far skinned. He said just keep doing what I am doing. There are tiny dog ears on my inner incisions near my cleavage. They have gotten much better with time, so PS recommends waiting 6-8 months and re-evaluate to see if this needs to be fixed. I so have some swelling possible dog ears on the outside of my incisions. I was wondering if this was still swelling from lipo but PS doesn't think this will get much better. Said I could leave it, or have a scar revision if needed. He explained that there probably was not enough lipo done in that area, and it is difficult to tell at the time of surgery with all the swelling, etc. Since I am so incredibly happy with my surgery results I am wanting to get those areas fixed. He explained that it would make my incision about an inch or two longer. So I will be doing that in the near future. I will attach a couple pictures of those areas. I am so grateful for my surgeon's talent. He is amazing! I gave him a card as a small way of showing him my appreciation, and thank him for doing such an amazing job. With my weekly pics that I am posting, I also decided that I am going to post a picture of what I look like so all of you can place a face with all if my posts. I will probably remove it in a few days...as I don't want anyone from work coming across my pictures. I am still feeling great and so happy that I had surgery. Happy healing to all those that had surgery this week :) Thanks to everyone for being great Realself friends. I feel like I know each of you all so well, and appreciate you so much. Thanks for being so supportive and encouraging! Hugs to you all! Updated on 6 Mar 2014: Here are the photos of the side views showing the areas that will be revised in the near future. Updated on 14 Mar 2014: Another great week! I decided take a break from using the silicone sheets this week to see if some if the redness would lessen. I might see a small difference, but nothing significant. I am not sure if any of scar treatment is really making much of a difference...and time is all I should wait for. I have had a sinus infection the past couple weeks...just so happy I did not have this right after surgery. Now I am getting ready to go on vacation in a couple weeks for Spring Break. We are going to Chicago for about a week, then to surprise the boys with a trip to Disneyland. If you have any creative ideas of how to surprise 14 year old boys...let me know. I am so excited, but still need to look for a new swimsuit. Also quite excited to take lots of pictures as I probably look so much better than I did last year when on vacation. I am still amazed at the transformation. Still wearing a DD...but if I don't think about the size I am quite thrilled with my shape/size. I actually am not sure I would want to be much smaller. I don't think I have much swelling at this point. Some say you don't reach your final size until 6 months. Wonder how things will change in the next few months. Hoping not too much...now that I am use to my be me. I am still so very happy I had the surgery. Now that I am over the first couple months of recovery and no longer have any discomfort to speak of....I do notice little imperfections so I am quite excited when I don't have to mess with all this scar treatment stuff. I am anxious for the day when I don't think about my boobs. But I guess that is okay - as I love them even with their imperfections. Wishing happy healing thoughts to all you ladies that have had surgery recently. I am so very excited for you, as I am sure it will change your life as much as it has mine. Updated on 14 Mar 2014: Updated on 14 Mar 2014: I really love these comparison pictures. I should I done this before I wrote my post....just when I didn't think I was still swelling or changing much....I guess I am. Updated on 21 Mar 2014: Hi ladies! Hope everyone is having a great week. Can't believe it - I am 12 weeks post-op. Still seems like yesterday. Don't really have much to update. I am getting ready to go vacation next week. So, I will be looking for a new swim suit this weekend. That shall be interesting. Today I wore a pink sweater that I hadn't worn in years. Felt so pretty! Then I want to one if our work locations where I haven't seen many of them since surgery. One of the ladies said "you lost so much weight". I just smiled and said yea, I have. At first I was so afraid of co-workers comments, but I never did have any comments that indicated anyone noticed that my breast size was different....they just think I lost weight. Actually. I am at my pre-op weight now. Seemed to gain my boob weight back from not being as active as I usually am. But I will be walking a lot on vacation...so hopefully with eating out I will not have gained any. That's my goal, and then I can get serious about the weight loss when I get back. I haven't noticed any changes this week with my breasts. I am pretty much pain free with no discomfort anymore. It has been awhile since I have come straight home from work to change bras, etc. I am still wearing my bra at night, but I have pretty much gotten use to that now and just feel more secure. It is nice to be able to sleep comfortably on my sides. But, amazingly almost every night I wake up and find myself sleeping on my back. I still have no back pain, or shoulder pain. And I am oh so excited that I won't get those painful rashes when it gets warmer. The swelling on my outside incisions have not gotten any better. I am waiting to hear back from insurance and the PS office to determine how much will be covered, etc. PS said he could do the revision in the clinic, but I didn't really ask what it entails regarding restrictions, and if I will have to be off work, etc. I guess in the moment I didn't care as I really want to have the revision done. I do love the shapes if my breasts and am very grateful that I had an easy recovery.. I just know that if I didn't do this, I would probably always regret it. I am totally use to the new ME now and it is hard to believe that my breast use to be almost double the size. I am still so thrilled that I had my breast reduction. My hope for other women contemplating a BR....is to realize how much it truly can change your life! Hope everyone is healing well! Updated on 26 Apr 2014: Hi Ladies, Haven't posted in awhile. I will be 4 months tomorrow and can't believe how the time has flown by. I would say I am fully recovered and have not seen many changes for quite some time. I have full sensation in my nipples but still are not very reactive to touch it cold. My incisions are getting better with time, but are still fairly pink. I don't worry about that too much any more, and not too worried about imperfections. I think in the recovery process there were so many changes that you can easily become obsessed with how they look. I am going to have a revision on my outer incisions. They kind of stick out a bit, and still have somewhat of extra side boob. Once I get this fixed it is very possible that I will then be a 36/38D instead of DD. Hopefully I will be able to finalize when the revision will be this next week. I don't think I will have to wait too long. One of my inner incisions has soften so much it now feels like a stretch mark versus a scar, and it has widen a bit and bulges out. Kind of strange, so I will see if PS can fix that also. I am still thrilled beyond belief that I had my BR. I am now use the new me and sometimes it doesn't seem possible that my breasts were twice as big as they are now. Hope everyone is doing well, and that your breast reduction has changed your life as much as it has mine. Updated on 3 May 2014: My revision is scheduled for May 9th. I am very excited. I love my new breasts, but am excited to have the outer incisions fixed, and get rid of some of the side boob. It isn't anything major, but since everything else looks perfect I figured I would want to have it fixed. I had a minor dog ear on my incision. Now it seems to have widened and looks more like a stretch mark than a scar. I am going to are if he can fix that too. I don't anticipate the revision setting me back at all...so we shall see. It is being done in the clinic, and I will not be having a general anesthetic. I am posting a couple pictures of the areas that will be revised. Not very good pictures, but hopefully you'll get the idea. Hope everyone is healing well. Updated on 9 May 2014: Hi ladies! Now that I took a small nap...thought I would update my experience with my scar revision I had done today. The nurse said the revisions look great. I have not looked at the incisions yet, but I am sure I will be thrilled. I posted some photos the other day of the areas that were going to be revised. PS said it happens quite a bit with a large reduction. He said I could have left them as is, but since my size and shape is perfect... I figured I wanted to get this fixed, as I really don't like having anything that looks like a "side boob" to me. I may even fit into my bras a bit better. PS just cut out some extra skin and tissue from the sides and extended the incisions a bit going towards my back. PS also fixed the inner incision at my cleavage (left side). I wasn't sure if he would be able to fix that yet, but he did so I am happy. It started out looking like a "dog ear" but then as it healed it stretched out. You can see it in some of my earlier photos if you look closely. The procedure was done in the office under a local anesthetic so I was awake the entire time. It was actually kind of neat being awake. I did not get queasy at all. We all talked during the procedure, and they (PS and nurse) got to know a bit more about my kids, where they go to school, some of their interests, etc. He really is not only an amazing PS, he seems so very kind and caring. We were talking about how I am so thrilled with having the BR, just wish I would have done it years ago. Then he said, but then I wouldn't have been able to do your surgery. He just moved to Colorado and joined the practice last year. And he is absolutely right...he did an amazing job, and I just will never know if I would have liked the results as much from a different surgeon. He really did an amazing job, and I truly believe things happen for a reason. So after all these years of suffering, it was worth waiting for the perfect surgeon. :) Since I did not have a general anesthetic I did not have to deal with all the drowsiness that went along with that. And although I will be somewhat sore, I am sure I will be able to tolerate the soreness with Tylenol if needed. As I am sitting here typing this after my nap, I have not felt any discomfort or soreness. We will see how well I sleep tonight. In terms of recovery....I have to wear my surgical bra again, no soaking in bath for a couple weeks, and no pulling or putting my arms above my head, etc. He said to be very careful not to overdo things, etc. I will be sore, but I won't be very swollen and not nearly as sore as I was before so it will be easy to open up the incisions if I am not careful. I will post pictures again when I get a good look at the incisions. Hope everyone is doing well, so glad to be able to share this experience with you all! Updated on 10 May 2014: I woke up being more sore than I anticipated, but doing very well. I was not sore at all last evening when just sitting watching movies. The local anesthetic was only suppose to keep things numb for about an hour, but it must have lasted a bit longer. Today, I am taking it easy to be sure I don't pull, reach, or stretch my incisions. I was able to go shopping without too much discomfort or soreness. I have only needed to take Tylenol which makes me happy. I am posing a few pictures of my incisions. These were taken less than 24 hours after revision. There is some swelling so I am not sure if you can tell the difference in the pictures....but I think I will be thrilled with the final result. Hope everyone is having a relaxing weekend, and Happy Mother's Day! Updated on 10 May 2014: Here are a couple photos that show what the revision accomplished. Keep in mind the before pictures were about 4 months after BR, and the revision photo was less than 24 hours after the procedure. Once the swelling goes down I will definitely see a more drastic difference. Updated on 11 May 2014: IttyBittyTittyComitty, I am posting a photo of the tape I found....is this the same tape that you found? Updated on 17 May 2014: I am doing really good after scar revision. The first 2 days I was sore, but there is no comparison to this soreness and what I had with BR. The 3rd day after revision I woke up with hardly any soreness. Even though I did not have much soreness I was reminded that I was still cut open...I went to pick something up off the coffee table and YIKES! I guess I had reached too far and it really hurt. I went to the bathroom to look any the incision and would not have been surprised if it opened up. But all was good and no blood. It was a good reminder that I still need to be very careful. Had a follow-up appointment yesterday. The nurse was amazed at how well I had healed in just a week. She said I looked magnificent. PS was also pleased. I am very happy I had the revision done. There is still some swelling, and I bruised more after the 2nd day...but what a difference a week makes. I can now do light activity, no regular bra yet, and I will go back in 3 weeks. Hope everyone is doing well and having a nice weekend. It is quite beautiful here so I am going to enjoy some sunshine. Updated on 2 Jun 2014: Already 5 Months Post-Op since my BR and 3 1/2 weeks since revisions. Things are healing nicely from the revision and I go back to PS next Monday. Things are mostly back to normal. I have a rash between my breast in my cleavage area now that it is getting warmer. I was hoping I would be done with the rashes, and will ask PS about this next week. I almost have a permanent cleavage, and with a bra there is not much breathing room at the cleavage. I know a funny thing to be concerned about. Maybe I will be able to find a bra that separates the breasts more...let me know ladies if you have suggestions. I did try sleeping without a bra last week and although wasn't as uncomfortable as last time I tried, I woke up with discomfort quite a few times. So I will be sleeping with a bra for awhile yet. Also not very comfortable without a bra for any significant amount of time without feeling tugging sensations. It isn't that big of a deal, but I am quite suprised by that at this point in my recovery. I am still thrilled beyond belief, and never for a second do I regret having the BR. I look at myself and constantly think this is what we are suppose to look like...without obnoxiously large breasts. I am looking forward to summer! Hope everyone is recovery well and are as thrilled as I am with their results. Updated on 28 Jun 2014: Today it has been 6 months since my BR. So hard to believe. Sometimes I still can't believe the incredible transformation, and can't believe half of my breasts were removed. No wonder I was in so much discomfort. Things are back to normal and I don't have any discomfort. I still sleep with a bra most nights, as it is more comfortable. Might be a subconscious thing, but if I don't wear one I feel more achy and don't sleep as well. Incisions are very faint, except the ones around my areolas. But they are getting better. Wider than I would have liked, but that is just the way I healed. The redness of the Incisions definitely got worse before they got better. Hopefully when they fade more it will be less noticeable. If not, I really don't care as no one else besides my hubby will ever see me. It isn't like I am going to become some nude model or go to topless beach. I am so happy that I have this behind me and life is back to normal and busy as ever. I still read reviews once in awhile, but just don't have the time to post as often. But please know that I am so excited for all the new ladies starting this journey and hope it changes your life or the better as it has mine. I am posting some photos; including some comparison photos. These really helped me see the changes throughout the weeks/months. For those that wonder if there are changes until 6 months, I really have not noticed much shape difference for at least a few months. My size has not changed since week 3. Still wearing a size 36/38DD. The only changes that I have really seen are the scars fading. Thanks to all my Realself friends that have helped me through this journey. I encourage each of you to "pay it forward" and off support and encouragement to one another as you have time. Take care and happy healing!
Tomorrow is my pre-op appointment for my Mommy Makeover which will include a tummy tuck, breast augmentation and lipo of abdomen, flanks and chin. I'm usually a private person, but I know these reviews really help, they are the reason I finally said YES! I have been toying with the idea for years. Like many of you, I’d been wrestling with whether it was worth the money. For instance, I need a new car… it would pay for a year of one of my kid’s college… my deck is falling apart, etc. I’ve also wrestled with worry about recovery. After reading so many RealSelf accounts, I’m scared about the pain and helplessness that accompanies recovery. If you’ve had kids then you know what it’s like to be poked and prodded, pinched and pulled, needled and noodled, but does it prepare you for this? Meh? I’ve also been wrestling whether I should just accept my body as it is. After all, so many modern female voices tell us that all of this sagging and pulling is just our battle wounds from age and childbearing and we should wear it with pride. But, I have come to realize that this is verbose baloney as we watch major sports magazines give women’s awards to men after they get a boob job and lipo. Society doesn’t revere or favor the aging, sagging, matronly female figure. I’m also tired of lifting up my gut to touch my toes during yoga, or having my leggings sag under my gut and my t-shirt stretch over my gut when I run. Plus, Ladies, doesn't it feel like your insides are trying to flop out. I also hate how my breasts ooze out of a non-underwire bra or how they get pinched under my arm when I lay on my side. Right? I know it’s not just me. I have reconciled all of those issues, finally. First, if our sagging and pooching IS just a biproduct of age and life, then WHY NOT get it corrected? Would I ever not get knee surgery because knee degradation is just a biproduct of life? Hysterectomy? Root canal? No, if I would have all those corrective procedures, even though they are simply caused by life, why wouldn’t I get this done? So, I am going into this procedure with no guilt, the same as if I was going to get hip surgery. What about the Money…I love my current car, I’ll just treat it better so it lasts longer, my kids need to work more on their own for money, and finally, about that deck... It can wait. Now what about the Pain? EEEESHHH. I’m relying on the doctor’s experience to make this as pain free and awesome as they can, this ain’t their first rodeo. What does my husband think? He does get a say in this, after all, it's his money, too. He has been against it from the beginning. He occasionally texts me articles on botched breast augs and longterm breast implant complications. But, he’s a sweety, who is risk averse, still thinks I’m hot and is maybe worried that if something happens to me he won’t know where his favorite tie is, or where we even bank at, or who the kids’ piano teacher is. So... thanks to the societal pressures and but mostly to the real discomfort that comes from having this gut, here we go!!! Updated on 18 Jun 2020: The Pre-Op was what I expected, though weird because everyone was in masks. I paid the rest of my $$$ and signed the different releases. They took my blood pressure, which was good, I was surprised because I took the stairs. They went over the plan, which was very simple, show up early, have surgery, wake up from anesthesia and go home. I brought up my concern about pain management and the assistant said that it should be manageable with the scripts I got. They gave me a script for pain, an antibiotic and an anti-emetic. I got to spend some time picking out implant sizes. I lost a bit of weight on the Keto diet, but it made my breasts drop at least one size. I don't want to gain 20lbs so I can get my boobs back so I'm going with implants. I basically brought one of my old bigger bras and tried on implants until it filled the bra with a tad extra for little cleavage. I like to run 5ks and work out so I didn't want anything too big. I went with the 365-375. They said they would put in what looked best for symmetry. One side is bigger than the other so we will see what goes in. Then I had to go get my Covid test. So all in all pretty easy. Counting down!!! Updated on 18 Jun 2020: SO since my pre-op appointment, I've spoken 2 women who have had this procedure. They both said it was the WORST recovery ever! They both had C-sections and they said it was way worse. They were very colorful in their descriptions of the horror that is recovery. One of them said they started off with Delaudid and that Percoset wasn't going to do a thing. She suggested I the doctor for a few days of that. Needless to say, I was now in scared mode. Great, night before, can't back out now. I was so nervous that I evacuated my bowels 4 times. I am so clean now I won't have a BM for days and days. I'm lucky that my BFF is coming in from out of town to help me so my husband can work. I need someone to drive my daughter to work and basically run the house while I'm down. Luckily, her daughter was one of the women I talked to about the TT so she knows what expect in helping me. In fact as soon as she showed up she started rearranging furniture to be walker friendly, set up a small table next to my recliner. And then we went on a pillow search, apparently I need a tall firm pillow for under my knees, support in my chair for my lower back, pillows for my supporting my arms, a firm pillow for my tummy.... Whew. I had not planned on getting a walker but after talking to those women and remembering the good advice on this board, that a walker is helpful. So the plan now includes sending my husband to Goodwill for a walker. I didn't sleep a wink I was so nervouse now. I got up at 4:30 because we are over an hour away and my appt was at 6:15. But as I was trying to find clothes to wear, just to the hospital mind you, not ballroom dancing, and I resorted to my leggings and frumpy shirt, I realized why I really need this surgery. When you can't really even wear regular clothes without discomfort and finding clothes is a pain...it's time. I was nervous but I know this is what I have to do. After all, I asked the two girls if they would do it again even if it was bad recovery and they both said yes! Updated on 19 Jun 2020: This is long but I'll put a summary and Lessons learned at the bottom. The big day arrived! Remember from my previous post that I got no sleep because I was nervous. I drove the hour and 15 minutes to the hospital so my husband could sleep because he had errands to run (purchase walker) and needed to put in few hours work before he took me home. We got there on time and they did the fever testing and Covid questions. I was the first one in line so paperwork went fast. Since I was so nervous, I evacuated my bowels once again. The nurse took me back to a private little room. She took my blood pressure, which was high, Gee, wonder why. They weighed me, took a pregnancy test, took my BP again, and it was still high. I got into my gown and got to recline on the nice bed. Staff was attentive. The nurse gave me an IV, which was difficult probably because I was dehydrated from not eating or drinking. The doctor came in and he marked me up with his marker and reviewed with me what was going to happen. I told him my concerns about pain and asked if I could have a few days of Delaudid based on a friends suggestion. He said they don't like giving out Delaudid unless necessary and suggested I give the Percoset a try and call the office if I needed something stronger. He felt Percoset would be adequate. Okey Dokey! Then the anesthesia doc came in and she asked the questions about allergies, anesthesia tolerance, etc. She told me how they were going to wheel me into the O.R. and that I would move to the different table and blah, blah, blah. I've had other surgeries before and I hate the part where they make you move from your comfy bed to the surgical table and all the lights are bright, and there's the machine that goes ping, and all. That's the scariest part of all. Luckily, all I remember is the Anesthesia doc leaving my room and a nurse putting something in my IV. Blast-off! I don't remember anything else, Yeah! I woke up in my recovery room with the doc and a nurse telling me how great it went and how I was out earlier than expected. They asked me about pain which I guessed at about a 6. She brought me a pill that I ate with crackers and water. The next few hours were me drinking water and eating crackers and sleeping. I was out of the OR at about 11:00 but I didn't leave my room until almost 3:00. The nurse took me to the bathroom twice, there was no pain at that point. But, every time I stood up I got nauseous. They gave me a bag to take with me to throw up in. I brought loose jammie bottoms and my husband's button up shirt It is a small surgical center so leaving was easy. However, I didn't make it 2 blocks before I threw up in my bag and on my chest! My poor husband! "should I pull over?" I told him "No". It was a ziplock bag, good thinking. I asked him to take me to the drive through for a soda and ice cream. I only took a sip of the soda and a few bites of the ice cream, it felt good on my throat which was sore from the tube they put in it. I threw up 2 more times going home the hour and fifteen minutes. Updated on 19 Jun 2020: Once home, I wasn't in a lot of pain. I felt sleepy and nauseous. My BFF was ready to set me up in my chair. My husband found me a metallic red walker at Goodwill for 7$ that I have now dubbed "the Porsche." I dithered early on whether to buy a walker or not, but I'm so glad I did. I took a few laps around my house then let them put me in recliner. It's important to let your helpers hold most of your weight or the abs kick in and it hurts. I drank some liquids and then threw up again. Even though I took my anti-emetic, I was still throwing up. Ugh! It didn't hurt, though to throw up as the doctor said he injected some numbing medicine in the muscle to help with the immediate pain (lidocaine?) so I was mostly pain free. Once I was done vomiting, my BFF got me all reclined with the appropriate pillows, put ice packs on my breasts, emptied my pouches, and gave me my meds. She prepared a schedule for me that she has been following exactly! She also has to keep track of how much liquid we empty from y bags. I'm so lucky as her daughter had same surgery so she knows what to do. She has all my meds set up on a timer on her phone so we don't miss any. What everyone wants to know is about the pain! Almost no pain for first 12 hours + taking steady pain meds. I stretched my pain meds by 1 hour and that was a mistake. The pain kicked in. BUT, I must define these different types pain as people may take some pain better than other. My breasts are only slightly sore, as if I gave them a big pec workout at the gym , a very familiar ache. Where he lipo'd me on my chin and flanks and abs are only slightly bruised. There are two types of pain in my stomach, the muscle and the surgical site. The muscle pain feels like the muscles are super tight and they sting when the meds wear off. This is managed by Percoset very well IF you take it on schedule. The worst pain is from either the surgical site or where the tubes go it. That pain is sharp and stinging. I only feel that when I walk. I've helped it a little by rearranging my bodysuit. Tomorrow, when I take of my Spanx and shower, I'll see if I can stop that pain. Moving around is difficult. I MUST have help getting up out of my chair. I MUST have "the Porsche" to get to the toilet and do my laps around the house. What has been helpful, is the standing urinating cup thingy. My husband picked it up at Cablela's when I was in surgery. It allows you to stand up and pee. This has been great because standing up and sitting down is painful. I don't know what my tummy looks like, I know it's going to be painful to take it off tomorrow when I shower. In summary so far: Must have a friend or husband who will dote on you and keep up with your meds. Get a walker. Salvation Army or Goodwill, I'll give mine back to them when I'm done. Have ice packs for breasts. Get one of those urinating cups. I'll update with photos after I take my shower. Updated on 20 Jun 2020: Pain was much better today. I went a little longer to take pain meds and took half as much. If I don't move, I have zero pain. However, sitting in the same position makes me stiff and then I have to go do laps around the house with the Porsche. My family is waiting on my like I had just had a baby! It's pretty nice! I get the TV remote! We've been watching Lord of the Rings, so I've been given the name Gollum as I'm hunched over almost double with my jaw wrap and saggy clothes. The back pain is what is most uncomfortable now along with only the tightness in the tummy. Lipo areas are not even noticeable and the breasts simply feel tender like when I'm about to get my period. I'm showering tomorrow morning so I get to see what it looks like! My friend keeps getting on me for trying to do too much on my own, I got up on my own a few times today and apparently, that's a no-no. It's good though to have a support group who is paying attention, dosing out meds properly, and chastising me when I get over ambitious. Updated on 21 Jun 2020: So, the narcotic pain meds were giving me a rapid heart beat which keeps me from sleeping. I've been off them for 36 hours maybe more. I'm only taking tylenol now and it is working fine, I have no real pain, only a tightness that I would associate with exercise.. I think at this point if I took the pain meds I might be inclined to overexert. Since, I'm out of my fog, my ToDO list is growing. Luckily, my friend and husband won't let me do anything, even get up out of my chair. Drains are still annoying but I can't really complain since I'm not doing anything. I took my first shower and though getting out of my bodysuit was tough, I was able to shower on my own. While they washed the bodysuit, I wrapped in a belly binder and air dried. I got a good look at my breasts. They don't look any different really to me, like my breasts before I lost the weight, which was my goal. I wonder if I went too small. My belly button looks high but maybe because I was used to it being so low and big before. Anyway, I did need my husband's help to get back in my body suit. Luckily, he's had to do this kind of thing through all of our kids and c-sections so it wasn't too traumatic. I know I have a lot of swelling and numbness, but I know from reading other posts that every day it will get better. At this point, my only complain is that I'm not allowed to do anything, my caregivers won' let me. I would like to take a big cough and a big, big breath without the tightness. If those are my only complaints, I'm doing okay. Updated on 22 Jun 2020: I go to my post op tomorrow and will post pictures. I'm able to stand up straight which worries me because I don't want to screw up anything. I only have odd sensations and muscle pain in my back. I'm still taking X-strength Tylenol for pain, that's all. The worst now is the boredom. I can only take so much TV. It's summer, I want to be out. I'm swollen and stiff and get tired easily if I stand for too long. I hate not sleeping on my side! I hate not snuggling with my kids and keeping them at arms length. I am counting down the days to when these drains go away but they are still pumping away. They told me to expect two weeks of drains. I'm hoping by day 10 I can get them out. Argghhhh. S Updated on 29 Jun 2020: Post op went fast. Doc looked at incision and everything. I confirmed that it is okay for me to stand straight if I can (which I can mostly), and that I can get up off the chairs by myself. I DID NOT get drains out as they are still filling too much daily. I have been off narcotic pain meds for 3 days and only on X strength Tylenol. I confirmed I can take Naproxen Sodium and Ibuprofen if I wish. I can shower and undo my bodysuit on my own. I place long dry bandages over my incisions to keep my bodysuit from pulling. My biggest complaint is my bodysuit pulling the short hairs from where they shaved me, that are now growing back! Ack! I'm not very hungry but I have been eating since my husband and best friend have been so good at thinking they need to cook every night. My kids are not feeling neglected, which was my worry. Still bored, thinking good thoughts about how great I will feel next week. Updated on 3 Jul 2020: I thought I would be doing more day 12. I think I'm not because I'm tired. I don't sleep through the night. I'm a side sleeper which means I'm not loving sleeping on my back. I'm still sleeping on the couch because I get up to pee so many times during the night and I don't want to wake up my husband who needs to sleep so he can work to pay for this adventure of mine. I am catching up on some binge watching. I'm posting some photos of items that I feel have helped me tremendously. I've read complaints about constipation. I have not had this problem at all. I take Psyllium husks with water once per day about 3 hours after I take my Tylenol. This is because the Psyllium soaks up what's around it. I don't want it absorbing any of my disolved pain meds. Yes it's gross, but hey, we're adults, I mix it with water and down it fast. If you wait too long it turns to a gelatinous mush and tastes like shredded wheat. I guarantee. One tablespoon per day with water and you will have no problems going to the bathroom. No pushing or anything. Along that note, I love my squatty potty. You don't actually squat on it, it just allows a place for you to set your legs to release muscles in your rectal area. I've used it for years, it is especially useful now. Pooping has not been an issue. Further along that note, I have a hand-held "bidet". I actually have a built in toilet seat bidet, as well, but the hand-held helps you rinse yourself off with precision. I've had this for years as it was helpful after having babies, cleaning off toddler bottoms, rinsing soiled baby clothes, etc. If I can keep my nether regions squeaky clean, it makes me feel more normal. I do not have to take my bodysuit off to urinate, poop, or spray down. Lifesaving. Taking the bodysuit off is a real pain. But cleanliness is still important, just to maintain that feeling of normalcy. I'm still days away from getting drains out. I don't think I'll really feel better until the drains are out. Updated on 3 Jul 2020: I tried posting these lifesaver photos in my last edit and they didn't show up. We'll try again. The Fiber I take as 1TBS once a day with water. No pooping issues. Squatty potty, also for pooping. Handheld Bidet for easy "refreshing". Updated on 3 Jul 2020: So day 12 I experienced some muscle pain all over and in my stomach so I lounged on the couch most of the day. I'm disappointed I'm not doing more. My house is becoming a mess! I can't find the energy to do much. I think I'll feel better when I get my drains out. It keeps me from leaving the house. It's hot outside and I have only one outfit that covers my drains and it's long sleeves. Urgh. I was reading other reviews and it seems there are a lot of issues and swelling that I want to avoid by not getting my drains out too soon. I was told by my doc that I have to go two days in a row with less than 20ml total from both drains. They told me to expect the drains for 3 weeks. I've read on here that some get drains out at 5 or 6 days! but then I see where some people get oozing out of their wounds. I'm willing to wait. Well I got down to 20ml for 2 days in a row. They said I could remove one of them, but then I got a day of 25ml total. Sooooooooo I guess I'm okay for now. I do not want fluid buildup under my skin. I can wait a few more days though I'm SOOOOOOO sick of them. But, my husband is taking my younger kids camping so I've got less motivation to get my drains out. I've been still sleeping on the couch because it keeps me from sleeping on my side and pulling my drains. I'll move to my bed when drains are out. I'll be patient, I want the best outcome. I think it would be difficult to go back to work with drains, though. I have a friend who wore a fanny pack and kept them in there. Drains would be much easier to deal with in the winter with large sweaters, blazers and leggings to tuck them in. I expect I'll be done with the drains by 3 weeks like they said.
I have came up on this website twice during my search of "breast reduction before and after" and love reading/seeing the results! Let me start off saying I am 25 years old 5ft 2 and on the "blessed" side as some May call it when it come to breast size. In HS and college I was always the girl with the big breasts. I got made fun of in HS because most girls thought I stuffed my bra, that was until I came to school braless!!! I was a 34C in HS and about the same in college they were so perky and Perfect(I to be able to have those boobs again) ...that was until I had my first child! I had my first son in May 2009 , during my pregnancy my breasts grew and they grew and they grew I started at the 36 C (I remember because right before finding out I bought a beautiful & expensive VS bra that I wore for 1 month) when I gave birth to my son I was wearing a 36 EE. It only got bigger from there I nursed only for a month due to prior surgery on my right breast (lumpectomy in 2007). When all was said and done I went back to a 38DDD. No cute bikinis, no cute bras no running for me!!! I had my 2nd son Nov 2013 and started at the 38DDD during my pregnancy my boobs were bigger than my belly! I am now wearing a 38G !!! I nursed my son up until 4 1/2 months and thought slowly weaning him would help shrink them slowly, boy was I wrong! I can not run, I can not wear anything strapless, bathing suits are damn near impossible to find , have to order online and they cost upwards of $100. I have been doing baby and me swim aerobics to get in shape since traditional working out is out of the question. I can not find a sports bra that will for both boobs at the same time!!! I have an apt Friday April 18,2014 with my primary care DR to start my journey down the road of hopefully getting a reduction! I'm sure all she has to do is look at my file and see all my prior apts for neck pain, back pain , phys. Therapy to help with posture, migraines, and countless back/next X-rays to see this is medically needed! So fingers crossed I get good news tomorrow and can finally be able to picture a day with small boobs!! Sorry this is so long! Any tips and advice would be appreciated Updated on 21 Apr 2014: So in order to see a plastic surgeon I have to have a referal from my primary doc! She walked in knowing what the apt was about and we began talking about migraines , neck pains and All that fun stuff she checked me out and said she agrees 100% that a breast reduction is what is best for me! She said my posture is bad because of them and I have permanent indents where my straps lay on my shoulders!! Now just waiting to see the plastic surgeon!!!!!! Updated on 19 Jul 2014: Ok so I have a ton to post about I will section it off ! First talking about my consult!! So I met with my PS on May 8th, 2014. Everything went great. He said I am a little larger on one side so he will be able to reduce them hopefully to a C and make them even!!! C cup!?!? C cup um what is that..... Distant memory of what that is!! Back in the day of perky college boobs. I believe he said 400 grams out on each side give or take a few to make them even. My skin is think and has great elasticity he said , and I will have minimal scaring. He saw a tiny tiny spot on my Right breast from where I had a Lumpectomy in 2008 and I had a large incision and not the scar looks like a stretch mark of sorts. Surgery will be minimally invasive so scaring and bruising should be minimal he said. I am not going in expecting to be up in the next days following cleaning house... I will plan for days/ week of sore and pain. So anything that is better is a plus. They submitted info to insurance to determine if it will be covered so fingers crossed!!!! Updated on 19 Jul 2014: Insurance denied my claim... So after my apt they said it takes aprox. 2 weeks to hear from insurance so I waited patiently. Called on the day that marked two weeks , they had not even sent it in yet!!!!!! WHAT.. I was livid , beyond mad! I explained that my insurance ends sept 16,2014 and I would not be paying for this's unless it is covered so of they wanted business they would send it in!! She assured me it was going in that day! (May 22) Waited 2 weeks called PS office, they haven't heard so on June 6th I called my insurance, they had denied it because they had no information other than my consult!! No weight , no height, no prior back issues no medical x-rays, nothing not even the photos taken at my consult!! Ok.. Excuse me lady at PS office is that not your job?!?! Called left a message asking why all the prior medical records and photos were not sent? No explanation. So I called insurance Monday the 9th and asked what needed to be done for and appeal and they said they need more info and that I would be getting a letter in the mail for the appeal with exact reasoning of denial. I got the letter and called the surgery scheduler (she seemed to know what to do and wasn't a ditz) Tuesday June 24 got over 50 pages of medical records dating back to 2003!!!! 2003 wow!! I was able to get chiropractic records and all X-rays taken of neck, back ,and shoulders . Printed off the photos the PS took and attached the appeal form! Took it straight up to my PS office on June 25 and waited as they submitted my appeal! Am I wrong that all that info should have been sent in the first place??? And that it was not my job to call previous Dr's and get everything together!? O well it was done and done right!!! Now to wait!!! Updated on 19 Jul 2014: I had almost forgot about my appeal and the vision of small boobs no longer dances in my head!! I have lost over 12 pounds this past month and have a weigh in on the 25th to see my total weight loss since starting! Unfortunately weight loss did nothing for the girls. Thursday(July 17) checked the mail and noticed I had a letter from united, figured it was a bill or denial! Didn't it open it right away. Came home sat down after putting my little one down and started going through the mail. I opened the united letter and was reading and everything was so formal and what not and there at the bottom of the page it said in other terms I was APPROVED!!! I wanted to jump up and down , but I didn't I would have got black eyes!!!! I read it over and over and called the PS immediately ... They are on lunch so I had to wait 30 min! Called my mom and my husband to tell them the good news! The letter was sent July 9th.. Bummed I didn't receive it sooner or have the Dr office call! O well I can hardly wait. Left a message or two for the surgery scheduler and waited patiently .. Who am I kidding I was so impatient! Finally for a call back Friday morning and set my pre op and surgery date. Pre op it the 24th and surgery is august 13th. He had some available dates at the end of July and the first week of August however I am a wedding photographer and have a wedding the 9th and 30th of August so I had to keep that in Mind!! I am so excited I will post after my pre op!!! Updated on 24 Jul 2014: Sitting here waiting for my Dr. To come back with one last paper for me to sign. We just had my pre op apt and I am very excited, I will not be having the anchor/T shape incision just the vertical "lollipop" because the elasticity in my skin is so good and he believes that he will be able to remove enough tissue without having to make that extra incision. My nip will be lifted and placed higher and everything should be good!! Just got my prescriptions and shopping list of things to buy like a front closing sports bra and breast pads. Thankfully I still have some from when I was breast feeding. I received my surgery time and post op date and time!! Everything is starting to get real and there is light at the end of this tunnel!!!!! Updated on 25 Jul 2014: Anyone have any advice of items I should buy for post BR I have bought: Hibiclense(for pre of and post op cleaning) Biacatracin(sp?) ointment I have nursing pads from when I breast fed Filled my prescriptions I need to find a flint closure sports bra . Went to target (my favorite place, my husbands worst nightmare ) and they were all out !! To walmart I go I guess! Any advice you ladies have would be helpful! Thanks :) Updated on 13 Aug 2014: So I had surgery this morning ! Had to repost to surgical center at 6:30 and surgery began at 7:33(last thing I saw was the clock in the operating room . I believe it lasted 2 1/2 hours. Got home around 12:30 and rested!! Pain has been non existent (thank The Lord) I just have been lounging in my front closure bra and on my last trip to the rest room to pee I took a peek! OMG.. They are beautiful lol! So small C cup I believe . There is no bruising, no swelling, and no redness!!!! Just my vertical incision (lollipop) there is no blood on the pads and no oozing! I am so impressed! I have been up walking around and have only had a nap from about 1pm-4:30pm. Was able to eat a small lunch before I napped and just ate a good dinner. Took a walk up and down our hall in our hose and even started a load of laundry. I will take a photo tomorrow after my first shower. I am beyond happy and so blessed to be able to fell this good post op!!!! Also my husband has been amazing! I made a color coded medication chart(just a tad OCD) and he has been on top of it! Updated on 15 Aug 2014: I am so surprised and how good I am feeling!!! I have been letting them air out twice a day for 15 min and they look awesome( at least I think so) Updated on 17 Aug 2014: I am so surprised at how good I feel. No pain like I have been reading from others who undergo the same thing. I am completely off Percocet and the only pill I am taking is my antibiotic for a few more days. Been changing the dressings about 3 times a day! I know they don't need to but for piece of mind and for my OCD of keeping things clean it gets done!! I have moved to a regular sports bra , I felt like the front closure on was opening every time I moved.. Yesterday I had my first outing , other than walking to the mailbox. We went out to get my son and husbands hair cut. I did really good. Took my Percocet and anti nausea in my purse just in case!! I am excited for my post op with my PS tomorrow!!!! Updated on 2 Sep 2014: Well I had a whole post written up and poof I locked my phone for a second to change my sons diaper and it was gone.. Shucks!(that wasn't the word I used) I am almost 3 weeks post and I feel amazing. Still no pain! The new thing is some discomfort at the bottom of my incision and on my actual ribs right below my breasts, they are probably just getting back to normal. Healing has been awesome! I feel amazing and I feel confident!! I finally feel good about the way I look. I have a natural womanly figure, and I am so happy!! I was measured and am a 36C!!!! Updated on 29 Nov 2014: So I realize I have not updated in quite some time. So here we go. I am absolutely over the moon happy with my choose to have a reduction. I can't even begin to count the things I have been able to do.. But the biggest thing is excersise followed closely with SHOP everything fits how it is intended to fit now :) finally!!!! I have settled I. To a 36 C cup, and I think they are just right!! I have my 4 month post op coming up and am so excited! Updated on 2 Mar 2016: It has been a while since I have done an update.. I am so happy with my decision to get this surgery. I am absolutely 100% satisfied!!! Updated on 31 Mar 2016: Here are recent photos. My scaring os slightly visible however I don't mind!
Implant sizing is always a nuanced process. Tissue characteristics (how thin or elastic are the tissues), what aesthetic is a person looking for, are there asymmetries that need to be addressed, base width, etc. All of these things need to be considered when choosing an implant. When consulting with a patient for sizing, I discuss in depth what appearance they are trying to achieve as well as what to anticipate with their life activity before working on implant sizing. It would appear that the slightly larger implant would be a consideration based on your measurements, and the photos suggest enough tissue to cover the implant adequately. Talking to your plastic surgeon about your concerns should help you achieve your goals.
This is an excellent and frequently asked question. Combining procedures can be safe, but one must be careful. Multiple procedures means longer anesthesia times and does increase complication risks. If the patient is healthy, has low health risks, and is a good candidate, combining procedures may be considered. Safety,of course, is paramount, as no amount of savings of time or money can compensate for complications if they can be minimized by performing two separate procedures. Another point of thought is: will the procedures be antagonistic - i.e. performing a breast lift then turning the patient over for a butt lift. I would consider this as being not ideal. Consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon is the beginning this decision making process. All the best!
Botox is used to reduce lines and wrinkles from around the face. It can also be used to reduce headaches or migraines from relaxing the muscles around the forehead or in the neck. Our Botox cost is $10.50 per unit. I inject all Botox on my patients and with a consultation, I can determine the amount needed. We'll look at the areas where you have concern and evaluate the number of units you may need. I am always on the conservative side with injecting Botox for patients. Once I determine the number of units that will be needed, I'll make sure you feel comfortable and then will begin the injection to get the results you are looking for. An average number of units is around 20-24, just to get an idea of cost. Sometimes a patient may not need as many or may require more units. Botox typically lasts 3 months.
For years people have looked in the mirror and wanted that unwanted fat just under the chin to disappear. Prior to today, the only real options were surgical and that meant downtime and scars. Now we have Kybella! Kybella is a revolutionary product that can dissolve the fat and tighten the skin under the chin. It only takes a few minutes for the treatments and the effects can be permanent. Kybella works by breaking down the fat cells and then your body takes care of the rest. No surgery needed! The overall downtime in limited to some swelling and occasional bruising, and major side effects are rare.
Ask five plastic surgeons and get five different answers :) After reading your question, and viewing your pictures, an implant would help with symmetry and improve your volume to help fill the excess skin. A lollipop style lift would reduce the size of the areola and help improve the shape of breast around the implant. If you are strongly opposed to an implant, then a lollipop style lift would reduce areola and improve symmetry, but you would be without the volume you might be seeking to fill out your skin. Best of luck with your decision!
