Joy Cluett, MD, FRCS(c)

My journey started in January 2020 s was hen I had my first consult with Dr.Cluett. I was a 38G and needed a reduction badly! Of course, Covid hit and it delayed my surgery but that was ok since I’m needed to reduce my BMI to 30. Fast forward to December 4th, and surgery is complete! I had 2 drainage tubes that were removed the next morning. Very little pain but was difficult trying to get some sleep Ed hike on my back( I’m a side sleeper)
My breasts are healing beautifully and I can not express how happy I am! For the first time in my life I could walk into Walmart and by cotton bras right off the rack for under $20.00!!

Ive always has large breasts. I recall my first bra being a 36 D at the age of 12. Genetically, both sides of my family have large breasts and my mother has struggled with hers for years. She thought about a reduction but was denied due to the weight restriction.
My breasts grew with my body, but I became very disprportiate. People often commented that I didn’t look that big, but surely the minimized and double sports bra had to help. Also wearing anything low cut or button up was simply out of the question. I developed indentations in my shoulders and around my up rib cage from the weight of the bra. My posture suffered and I was eventually going to be the hunchback of Notredame.
I took the plunge yesterday and am still recovering.
These are the before and after results and I have no problems updating my experiences or answering questions!

Updated on 24 Apr 2018:
Surgery was completed on April 18th. I will admit that the fasting was challenging for me, especially the water not before surgery. I was provided Ativan and pain meds before the surgery and vitals were taken. I was incrediably nervous. I felt like I was going to vomit! The staff were great and my surgeon walked me through the procedure. I didnt even feel the IV going in as they numb the area before hand. When I woke briefly in the recovery room I was in a bit of pain and told my nurse. She provided me with some more pain medication. In Newfoundland, the surgery is an outpatient procedure so I was able to return home from hospital lunchtime. I was provided the follow up appointment and connected with a nurse for bandage changes and drain removal.
The drains were the worst part for me. I dont recall much of the first day, besides yelling at my partner as he drove home that he was hitting all the bumps and the worst driver. I had brought a pillow with me to hug for the ride home, it helped.
I rested for most of the 24 hours afterwards, but was prompted to walk around and get moving by my partner and mom. This reduces the chances of blood cloths. I was given antibiotic and pain meds to take at home. FOR THE LOVE OF GOD TAKE THE STOOL SOFTENER. Many pain meds cause constipation and this was the worst part.
The drains came out the next day by a nurse. Bruising was minimal on this day, but the breasts were very swollen. The drain removal was okay, the stitches in the left breast and the drain was the worst for whatever reason. There was some relief after that.
I was allergic to the adhesive tape that they used to put on the bandages. This was not fun. I was itchy and irritated.
Im five days post op now and feel great. I still have some discomfort and pain, but nothing that isnt manageable.
Best of luck to everyone in their own journeys!

Updated on 26 Apr 2018:
Seven days post op! I’m feeling great and better than I expected! I’ve been driving since Monday, which has been great because being stuck in the house, watching Netflix can only go on so long.
Couple things that I have noticed that are different than before:
Nipple sensitivity- my aerolas are sensitive and I think this could be because the blood supply is going through well. Probably because I can see them now and they sit differently in the bras. Anyone have any experiences like this?
Back pain- I’ve been feeling great with my posture since the procedure and colleagues have commented that I hold myself very differently. I suspect the back pain I’m getting is due to my posture trying to readjust!
I was able to shower briefly yesterday without getting the breasts wet. It was challenging even with a hand held nossle. I am still having some drainage and it is anticipated that the strips around the incision will come off Monday!
Would love to hear some other experiences! Or offer any advice to those feeling anxious about taking the plunge!
Xo

Updated on 28 Apr 2018:
Today is the tenth day since my BR! Ive been doing pretty well, but often take advantage of when I’m feeling good to over do it!
I have my last visit to the nurse on Monday to have the final strips around my nipple and t-incision removed. Then I will be able to shower properly!
Ive gotten a small muscular hemotoma.. I thinks that’s spelt right! It’s very tender and it is hard from the pocket of blood under the skin! The nurse said that it is nothing to worry about unless it appears to be spreading.
Ive been using abdominal pads under my incisions for comfort and any excess drainage. Works better than the allergic adhesive that I had on before. In between visits to the nurse, ive been changing my gauze as needed and applying antibacterial cream to help with the healing process. It seems to be helping!
Some of the strips came off yesterday at the nurse and the adhesive is very sticky and strong. I used some rubbing alcohol to get the adhesive off my skin with a sterile gauze.
Pain is minimal. It’s only when I over exert myself that I feel any pressure of tenson. I still find driving to be a challenge. Especially for extended periods of time!
Will update again once I get the strips off!

Updated on 2 May 2018:
It has now been two weeks! I had the final bandages removed two days ago! Everything appears to be healing well and looks promising!
I went shopping for the first time for some bras. I have to return to work on Monday and felt that the zip up sport bras were not going to work with many of my work attire. I fit into a D bra without any underwire but still had some support. I dug our this bras (see photo) I had ordered from Knixwear. Its a Canadian company and the bras are super comfortable, sweat proof and odor proof! They can also convert the straps and have some stretch. I would encourage any getting this bra! I think it’s great and I will continue to use it once I have recovered!
Hope everyone else is doing well!

Updated on 23 May 2018:
Still healing, but back to work and doing mostly normal things! Still wearing sports bras but haven’t tried wearing wires yet!