I was a VERY complicated breast reduction case. Dr. Gross and Alice were amazing and reassuring, and I am a really assertive patient who isn't afraid to ask questions. They took their time, postponing the procedure on several occasions to prevent complications, and then squeezing me in as soon as the reduction could be done safely. Given the pathology report, I have no idea how on earth they were able to give me such beautiful results. I'm floored. They really did work a medical miracle. Now that it's time for another procedure, I can't imagine trusting anyone else. They have developed a plan for any potential complications and I am optimistic that the outcome of this procedure will be just as amazing as the last one.
I am 66 years old and as long as I can remain I have had huge breast and have hated them. I avoid pictures below neck because I can see how big I am, 42DDD and wear a minimizer bra in hopes of camouflage these things. My nephew passed away approximately 4 1/2 years ago and I remember hearing her complaints! Updated on 25 Aug 2017: Just contacted by doctor office and an opening has occurred on September 15, so it is now closer to the big day! Updated on 25 Aug 2017: Updated on 21 Sep 2017: weather is very confused and hoping it won't cause problem with my surgery! So nervous, so excited! My husband just said my mom would have been so excited'. Funny when I was sending a text I actually had though how nice it would have been to tell her all about it, which now makes me a little sad that she isn't here with me! Missing her a lot today! Updated on 21 Sep 2017: So on Thursday 9/14 surgery was done, it was a long process as they took me back and it was 8:30 before they finally got me to my room! Best friend showed up with Cookies at 1am what a great friend! Doctor took drains out Friday morning and sent me home. I'm using a recliner to sleep in! Saturday big fund raiser for animal rescue and we went for a little bit! Otherwise just resting! Updated on 27 Sep 2017: Later today I I am getting the stitches out. I've been feeling fine until today and noticed time I was having some leaking on the left side and also was I have been more swollen on the left side. Yes I am a bit concerned, possibly because my husband said that he was going to tell on me to Dr. Gross that I've been doing too much. Told him he should've been doing the vacuuming and walking of the dog and the cleaning of the house instead of me. His comment,<br />none of that has been done since I had the surgery in the first place, how true. What a real bummer is that Dr. Gross was his doctor before he was my doctor and I swear they got a better relationship than I ever have but I really like Dr, Gross and he was Lloyd surgeon and still like him as my surgeon. Hopefully, I've done no damage and the stitches and all will be fine. I'll follow up with all of this after my appointment this afternoon. I have been using ice bags to get swelling down! During this time I have found that there needs to be an electric ice bag similar to my favorite old heating pad! If anyone has<br />Invented the electric ice bag please let me know as I could desperately use it to get the swelling down! Updated on 28 Sep 2017: I went to the doctor yesterday and according to Dr. Gross and his entire staff he did a perfect job. I'm telling you he was almost giggly and so proud! I have to say I am too they look fantastic. I'm still having a little swelling and they cut the knots off my stitches so they'll begin coming out very soon. The doctor that is, had a chat with Lloyd and said he needed to take over some things for me at least for the next four weeks until I'm fully recuperated. Ha ha and he thought he was going to get me in trouble. No return until January and less I'm having a problem. It's over and I feel great. What I do it again yes definitely yes! Updated on 3 Oct 2017: I could not have been happier with Dr. Gross and his staff. They are fantastic and just did a super job with my breast reduction. The pictures posted was a couple days after and now looking even better.
I had large, hanging breasts as well as neck, shoulder, and back pain. I felt uncomfortable in my clothes and if something fit well in the breast area, it would hang in other areas....and vice versa. Very frustrating! Finding a bra that fit properly was a nightmare! So very glad Dr. Gross was recommended to me!
41 yr old , mother of three. Had breast reduction 6 wks ago. I never thought I would ever find comfort again. Dr Gross and his staff were wonderful. The emotional support through this process was amazing. I have had several people I know that has had the procedure, but none of the work I seen had prepared me for my results. My husband even told me if he did not know what I looked like before the procedure, he would have never guessed I had a reduction. Thank you for giving me back my life and freedom to enjoy it. LW......
Hello all. My name is Ashley I have been a member for a while just doing research and making sure this was the right decision. After 2 years of consultations, i am happy to say that I have finally made the decision to have a breast reduction. I am currently a 34M and have always been at least a H since I was 22. Until having my first child in 2015 i had no neck and back pain. However now, I experience discomfort on a daily basis. Neck pain, back pain and shoulder pain. I hate how my clothing fits me. Having a large chest makes me look way bigger than I am. Most people have no idea my waist is as small as it is because of my breast size. I tend to wear only form fitting clothing for this reason which have the affect of making me look overly sexy lol. I just want to wear regular comfortable clothing and stil look good. I want to be able to sit at my desk at work and not have to massage my neck and shoulders after a few hours. I'm ready for relief. Updated on 20 Jan 2017: My surgery was scheduled for 2/9/17. Ins approved it within about 2 and 1/2 weeks. I don't not know the total price of my surgery but I do have a $3000 ded that I have to pay plus $600 is coinsurance. My deposit of 1800 was paid and the remainder is due at my preop appt which is a week before my surgery on Feb 2nd. Luckily my job will reimburse me some of my ded. I don't think I would care either way though, my ready to get rid of this pain. Updated on 9 Feb 2017: Hey ladies! Today was the day! Woohoo! I am currently laying in my hosiptial bed as I type this message. Surgery went great and my girls are looking extra small from my current view. I am still bandaged up and in a compression bra so I haven't actually seen them. I have drains on each side which doc says will be removed on the am. So far so good. What a relief because I was soooooo nervous. Dr Gross and Alice are the bomb.com! They a great! And very professional. The way they work together is just wonderful. Dr Gross is very blessed to have Alice by his side. I haven't seen them since before surgery but they will be here in the morning to check things out, remove drains and discharge me. A little about my surgery, I checked into Piedmont Henry hospital at 10:30. At 11am I was takes to triage in which I fully undressed and put on a hospital gown. The nurse ran my iv and another nurse took my vitals. Everyone that I have encountered has been wonderful. After the nurses left I was able to spend a little time with my daughter. Even though she's only 18 months I attempted to explain what was going on and reassured her that mommy was ok. The anesthesiologist then came with the nurse anesthesiologist to introduce themselves. The actually anesthesiologist didn't say anything at all and eventually walked off for his nurse was done speaking, which was probably the only negative thing I experienced but is his was very kind. Right after they left my surgical nurses can to introduce themselves and asked if I had any questions. My surgery was scheduled for 12:30 but they explained that the dr was already on his way and that we would be getting started early. Dr Gross and Alice them came to do my markups. They took their time and worked together to get the most accurate drawings. I really appreciated that. They then left and the nurse returned. She added something to my iv, can't remember what it was but it made me a bit drowsy so I'm assuming pain meds. I said my see you laters to my family and I was whisked off to the OR. The OR was extremely cold but the nurses did a great job keeping me warm. I don't remember much but I do remember everyone being really nice and catering to me. Once I woke up in recovery I had the worst throat ache. I had a tube down my throats during surgery which they did tell me about and will probably have a sore throats for a few days. I also woke up with itchy compression socks and the machine on my legs to prevent blood clots. As for my pain it was a lot less pain then expected. My throats and legs actually bother me more than the surgery pain at the moment. I found out that my surgery was about 4 hrs. And so far only pain meds I have taken is Tylenol. I am not in a restricted diet but because of the sore throat I only want ice chips and liquids. I did eat a few crackers though that came with my chicken noodle soup (soup was gross so I didn't eat it. Maybe I'll lose a few lbs during this time, lol. Well it's midnight and I getting sleepy. Will update you all tomorrow. And try to post pics. Updated on 9 Feb 2017: Updated on 10 Feb 2017: Updated on 22 Feb 2017: Sleeping on my back has been the hardest thing this past 2 weeks. Besides that however, all is well. Pain is minimal more if a discomfor than anything. Boobs are healing nicely but I'm a little worried about my left areola/nipple. I have no sensation and it is beginning to get hard and black. Makes me a little sad but I'm still hopeful. I still have a lot of swelling in my left breast and the sensation has not fully recovered. I can feel my inner left breast but not the outer. I have my 2 week check up tomorrow and I hope the dr still says it's normal. My breasts are still pretty large, but this was expected. I did not have a full nipple graft so I had no chance of being smaller than a D. I'm more than ok with this however. My breast and nice round and perky again. I know it's a long road ahead but I look forward to my final results.
After a lifetime of huge breasts, 2 children and a 100 lb weight loss.. I decided that my long, floppy breasts were not for me. I had severe lower back pain, shoulder pain, marks on my shoulders and sides from bras digging into them. Therefore, I went in search of a breast reduction. My primary care physician referred me to Dr. Lawrence Gross in Stockbridge, Georgia. From my first appointment to now, I felt 100 % comfortable with Dr. Gross. I was able to get a fast appointment. His office staff were all very friendly, talkative and made me feel like family. Dr. Gross was small in stature and appear to have a quick nature. However, he was so informative, passionate and helpful. He answered all of my questions and concerns. He included my husband in the process and made me feel so relaxed. My paperwork was approved immediately and my surgery was scheduled about 2 weeks after my first appointment. My experience was amazing! I have recommended him to all of my friends. I am only 2 days post-op but my booobies are amazing! My back pain and migraines ended immediately! See my before and afters below! I will update the pictures as I recover. Feel free to ask me any questions about this amazing surgeon, Dr. Gross!
Hello everyone I'm getting very excited and yet very nervous for my upcoming surgery on September 12. Just a little bio about me. I'm 37 years old and currently wear a 44g cup. I've always been heavy chested since middle school but after two kids who were both breast fed, well I've gotten much larger. I currently suffer from chronic migraine headaches and on Naproxen medication. In addition to the constant back and neck pains. I can't wait till be able to start running again. It's a little hard to run with the girls flopping and down. And OMG to be able to buy pretty bras like VS and not the few selection of bras that cost $50 and up. I had no problems getting my insurance to approve the surgery. As a matter of fact I had my consultation with Dr.Gross on May31 and received my letter of approval on June 8. So let the countdown begin! Updated on 5 Sep 2013: I had my Pre op appointment today and everything went very well. I think the excitement was clearly shown on my face. My PS did my markings and my blood pressure, blood work and all that great stuff were done. He also informed me that I will have an overnight stay at the hospital which I feel really comfortable with. I did ask whether or not if I will have to wear the drains and he said just that night and they will be taken out that morning before I'm discharged. Whewww, I don't know why I was freaking out about the drains. They just seemed gross and uncomfortable. The staff including my PS are all great. Very professional and so far have made this an pleasant experience . Until then goodnight ladies and will update in a few days. Updated on 11 Sep 2013: Can't believe after years of putting this surgery off I will be on the other side. Trying to get a few things done today so I can be relaxed and calm tomorrow. Updated on 12 Sep 2013: On my way to the hospital. Feeling a little calm right now. I'm quessing it's because I didnt get much sleep last night, so hopefully I will get a good night rest tonight. No turning back right now. Updated on 12 Sep 2013: Surgery was an success!!! It went by so fast. Arrived at 10:45,the nurse took my vitals and soon after the anestheslogist came in to talk to me. Then my PS did his markings (he is such a sweetheart). Went back to surgery on time at 12:30. All I can remember is moving over to the operating table. Lights out for me. The.surgery took about three and a half hours. Lowes to the recovery room for 2 hours and they could mean to my room. I cant say I was one of those who had little or no pain. I would say its a 6 or 7. A little nagging sharp pain. Just took another percocet pill so getting a little drowsy. Hopefully I can see the girls tomorrow morning when they take out the drains. Thank you all for all of your thoughts and prayers. Very much appreciated. Updated on 13 Sep 2013: Made it home from the hospital around 11:00am. My PS came to my room early this morning around 7:30 and removed my drains. It wasn't as bad as I thought just glad I didn't have to come to deal with them. My pain is so so, nothing severe. A sharp pain every now and then. The oxycodone medication helps alot!!! I'm taking advantage and getting as much rest as possible. Updated on 15 Sep 2013: These pain pills have been groggy and just want to sleep all day. I'm lucky if I can stay woke for more than 20 minutes. My husband did help me give me half shower (lower body) today and I took off all the bandages. Not the prettiest site but I'm sure everything will start to fill out. Time to go back and relax and finish watching football. Enjoy your Sunday everyone. Updated on 19 Sep 2013: Today I had my post op appointment. The week actually went by pretty fast. My PS said that everything looks very good and the healing is going well . Still a little bruising from the lipo on the sides. He gave me the green light to take a shower. I also had a free nipple graft done and he advised that some of my coloring on my aeolra may change. Of course this fraked me out after reading stories of nipples falling off. But he assired me that only scabs will come off not my entire nipple,lmao. Now the good report. My pathology report said that 1775 grams from the left breast was removed and 1900 grams was removed from the right breast. A total of 4 home from each breast removed . So 4 pounds from each breast. 8 pounds of fat removed. Wow that is a lot!! Trust me I immediately can feel the difference when I walk and my posture. It feel really good to get out the house today. My husband brought me lunch afterwards and I took my first shower. Hope all of you are doing well with your post op. Talk to you soon!! Updated on 20 Sep 2013: I am so thankful my husband has been supportive throughout this whole surgery. My hubby is a boob man and this has been a big change for him but I made the choice for myself. Either continue to suffer chronic migraines, back and neck pains or just have the surgery. He has helped with the grocery shopping, the kids,cleaning, giving me showers and help change my bandages . And my promise to him after I'm healed is to wear sexy summer dresses and lingerie. Updated on 26 Sep 2013: Today I have my second follow-up. I had my stitches taking out. It wasn't too bad until he took the stitches out of my right nipple and I said ouch!! He said you can feel that Umm yes and it hurts. Other than that he said everything looks very good. I've been really concerned about the pealing of my skin on my nipples from my free nipple graft. Both my PS and nurse reassured me that the pigmentation will come back once everything is healed. I've been down and freaking out because of the peeling and how it looks. But in due time after it heals I'm hoping everything will look fine. He gave me the OK to start wearing regular bras so now it's time to go shopping!!! Updated on 26 Sep 2013: Today I had my second follow-up. I had my stitches taking out. It wasn't too bad until he took the stitches out of my right nipple and I said ouch!! He said you can feel that Umm yes and it hurts. Other than that he said everything looks very good. I've been really concerned about the pealing of my skin on my nipples from my free nipple graft. Both my PS and nurse reassured me that the pigmentation will come back once everything is healed. I've been down and freaking out because of the peeling and how it looks. But in due time after it heals I'm hoping everything will look fine. He gave me the OK to start wearing regular bras so now it's time to go shopping!!! Updated on 27 Sep 2013: So Thursday I had my stitches removed and everything is healing well. I've been down about how my nipples look. I had a free nipple graft and my ps and nurse reassured that the pigemantation will come back after everything is healed. Right now I just hate to even look down at my breast. I mean I love my new shape but the nipples not so. Can anyone please share their experience if you had a free nipple graft? Updated on 6 Oct 2013: Well nothing new has really changed with the exception of the dead skin that is now starting to come off from my nipples. I was getting really down about it but I can see where the pigementation is beginning to form. And the funny thing well probably more of a blessing I've been having a tingling feeling in my nipples. I told my nurse, Alice and she said that is wonderful!! When you have a free nipple graft you loose sensation in your nipples. I can definitely feel something there, which is good. That means the nerves and tissues are starting to reconnect. So I'm keeping my head and a big thank you to all of the ladies here on Real Self for your words of encouragement. Updated on 3 Nov 2013: I haven't been on here for awhile. Well lets see since my last post I had another post op appoinment. PS said everything looks great. As far as my nipples they are healing very well. A lot of the scabs have come off and I've noticed a big change about 3 weeks ago. My left side is healing faster than righty. The pigemantation is starting to come back on the left. My right nipple is healing slowly but the outer layer is now coming back. I'm back into my every day routine. I went back to work this Wednesday. I'm so glad that I took the full 6 weeks off from work. That was plenty of time for my body to heal and get some much needed rest. It was an slight adjustment but not as bad as I thought it would be. I only have slight shooting pain a few times a day depending on what type of activity I'm doing. Overall I love how small I am. I haven't gone on my clothes and bra shopping spree yet. Will give it another month or so. Updated on 26 Feb 2014: I can't remember the last time I logged onto this site it's been quite a long time. Well just a quick update things have healed up very nicely. Getting back to work and back into my normal routine was an small adjustment. The last update was a concern of my nipples. I had the free nipple graft and wasn't fully aware of the outcome from the fng. Well as of now my nipples have healed up very well. Both are closed completely. The right nipple is still trying to get its full pigmentation back. I still have very visible scars but hey that comes with any surgery. The best part I am off Naproxen for chronic migraines.. I couldn't believe that the weight of my breast was the cause of my migraines. I've recently rejoined the gym. Exercising had become so much easier. Hopefully soon I can get back to running and enjoying it without the girls flopping in my face. I hope for those who have had the surgery you are all doing well and for those thinking about it, go for it!!
I'm 40, I have given birth to 5 kids, I've had large breast since forever, In high school I was 120lbs with D's... I'm only 5ft 4inches. I'm over weight now, like 165, I hate the scale. It does not matter though I have lost weight (recently) and my breast size doesn't budge :( I'm about a 36 FF or EE, just to darn big and heavy! So I decided I wanted a lift, during my annual pap I mention to my gynecologist that I hate my boobs and want a lift, she casually and flippantly states " Their pretty big, have you considered a reduction?" Ding, ding, ding, ding ,ding! It's like a light came on and here I am, scheduled for 8/22/13 I'm very excited and scared and all that stuff all at once. My insurance is going to cover a portion ( Not Enough!) but every bit counts, my husband is NOT excited about this at all, but he's paying for and is supporting my needs completely. So I NEED the BR but he's throwing in the TT!!!! He's a keeper right?! I'm choosing to space them by a few weeks, it's what my Dr. prefers and the only way my husband agrees to my doing it. I shall choose to not battle! I'm grateful for this website and will post pictures soon. Updated on 12 Jul 2013: Here are a few photos to get an idea of what I look like. Updated on 12 Jul 2013: Hope all the pictures upload this time. Updated on 12 Jul 2013: Here goes Updated on 5 Aug 2013: Hi Realfriends! Just a quick update, Went out with hubby and there was a lot of picture opps, wow what a wall of huge saggy [RS bleep]! I'm sooo glad I won't have to try so hard to hide them so much anymore, soon, oh so soon. Sigh will post a picture of "Wall of Boob" , Please ladies what do I truly need ro shop for? I want everything now, I hate last minute stress! Thank you all! Updated on 5 Aug 2013: All I see is boobs, ugh, shaking my head, I'm glad y'all understand, I'm sure others when they see this picture see something else. I mean even when I look at the whole unedited picture it's just [RS bleep], I'm so over them! Updated on 11 Aug 2013: Seriously gals, Iv'e been so obsessed with getting my reduction that I kinda forgot about the lipo I will be getting on my upper abs, flanks and I think bra/back fat. So now I'm worried about having some tight garment on top of everything else:( I only see seen a few reviews where ladies did both at the same time, if you know of a review I could read please pass along the info. Thank you all in advance. I'm still excited though :) Very actually, Happy Healing! Updated on 14 Aug 2013: Yup, it's here! I can't wait, my appt. is late morning so I have time to take any suggestions about questions I should ask, I have a few written down but would love the inside knowledge of the gals who have gone before me, ( and those who haven't gone yet but are pretty smart) , Thank you ladies will post pictures soon! Updated on 15 Aug 2013: Well the pre-op went great, I get it now, I'm emotionally spent. It's nothing the staff said they were wonderful, patient, kind, answered every question. The hospital staff where I got the labs drawn, very professional. So why am I so upset, just feel like crying. I'm happy about this, I want this,and need this Oh well, just being a girl I guess. One thing I'm extra excited about, I don't have to go home with drains! Best news right ?! I'm so grateful for this site, just knowing you all understand, s safe place to vent, thanks girls :) I'm adding more pictures, I can't wait to post after pictures wearing these same items! Blessings ladies! Updated on 15 Aug 2013: Updated on 16 Aug 2013: I thought I would share a little OCD with my gals who are control freaks. So I bought this plastic organizer, it's for all things related to surgery, one drawer for meds, one for gauze and tape, things like that. I figured having every thing in one place helps me, and those taking care of me ;) It also has wheels so easy to move! Updated on 23 Aug 2013: Wow, I just can't believe it, I'm on the other side. Everything went smoothly, the last thing I remember was getting on to the operating table, and the next thing was waking up, groggy as heck to my husband messing on his IPad! I took that as a good sign. I was in a pretty good amount of pain but once medicated I was okay. I haven't been 100% pain fre yet, but tolerable. It's a strange pain, very sore with upper chest tenderness. I was done about 5:30 in the evening, so by 4am I just wanted sleep, they drugged me good and I slept like a baby. So going pee was no easy business, I couldn't really tell my bladder was full, it's more like I just knew I had to go, then I had to push hard to get it out, very od was expecting that. I also opted to do the " swimsuit side sweep" I have this girdle on and since I had the I.V. and can't use my arms well it was the best way to pee. So PS came this morning and removed the drains, changed my dressings, he said using maxi pads as dressings is good because they don't leak through, funny huh. He said I can shower already! Just be gentle with the girls. I have sensation in both nipples already, yay! I really wanted to be a D , don't know if that's what they will end up, he took 709 grams from the right side (1.54 lbs) and 808 grams from the left side (1.70 lbs), but have already talked to myself about this, I can always wear a paddded bra if and when I need it, then to try hiding them! I want to thank all you sweet gals for your prayers, and all the advice, I felt so prepared. Updated on 23 Aug 2013: Say hello to my new twins! Updated on 25 Aug 2013: Okay so when I left the hospital I was so relieved that my post op instructions were so simple. Maybe to simple, I've been cleared to shower, and was told to just keep the incisions dry and change the dressing daily. Well I don't want to be a bad patient but I'm of the mind of putting on a little antibacterial ointment, especially the areas that seem a little open. What should I do ladies, I want the best outcome possible. Right now the incisions feel tight, almost like there is pressure on them. I also have had that "let down" sensation like one gets when breast feeding, and whoever said that they kinda feel like having implants hit the nail on the head! So glad to been expecting most of this, beforehand because of all of awesome sharing you gals have done. Updated on 26 Aug 2013: I really want to be in love with my boobs, I'm kinda not :( I don't hate them, it's just so dramatic. I think their to small , I know most BR gals like smaller but I really stressed I wanted at least a D when all was done, I think their gonna be C's, and they are boxes, flat boxes, like all the volume is on the sides, weird, I guess I'm just venting, it's early trying to stay positive, but had to release the negative , and at least here it's a safe place to do so. Jeez can't tell the hubby that all that money he just spent was so I can be sad, will make him sad! Hey my back doesn't hurt! Updated on 27 Aug 2013: I'm posting pictures today because I hope to prepare someone else in the future of what to expect, as you can see, I'm a bruiser, so it may be helpful too to those who bruise easily. Picture diaries others have posted has helped me greatly, seeing how the body changes even day to day is amazing. I'm not a fan of the look of the breast at this stage at all, posting these is as uncomfortable as posting those first braless pictures. Updated on 29 Aug 2013: Okay ladies thanks for hanging in there with me, it was a roller coaster ride of pain, drugs, and semi-irational emotions! I like the boobs! I really do, it's the healing that's the hardest. I had my first post op, and I LOVE my PS, I knew he was great. Hehas assured me that I will have my D size cup when this all done, he explained why he did and was able to take all those grams and achieve my desired results. I'm actually happy ;D , I just need to baby my new girls, Iasked a qquestion and a PS responded, and he said something important that resonated with me, he said it's easy to make nice scars bad, but hard to make bad scars good. Made perfect sense, a light went on, I'm embracing the process. Someone else wise here said we are in reality trading one set of imperfect boobs for another, I love my imperfect self! Updated on 4 Sep 2013: So I have been watching these incisions, the L t-zone has had a spot from day one. ( why you should have a picture diary) that spot has "spread" changed and looks bad.I have feeling, at it so not super worried. My vertical incisions have a little going on too. I did start Arnica orally about 4 days ago it's helped reduce swelling (Which stresses incisions) I've been using arnica gel on the boobs, where there is no open skin, soothes minor pain/ache nicely and that part of breasts look good. I'm posting pictures that show the progression of this spot, also a couple of me in a t-shirt, fav thing to wear! You can see the pads underneath, lol, I had a scarf while out to hide them. So I see my PS tomorrow, it's 2 wk check up time! Let's see what they say. Healthy Healing girls! BTW, I value any input from y'all who have had this issue, thx. Updated on 4 Sep 2013: Here's a couple of pictures of the new girls in clothes. Side Note: If you have never had surgery before, I suggest you look up odd side affects, not to scare you but to prepare you in case you get one, you won't freak out, ie, perm/color hair before surgery, never shortly after. Hair can be dryer after, I broke out, but I suspect it's lack of great skin care, or antibiotics, also if you're prone to yeast infection after/during antibiotic use, get a script before surgery, fill it! Thx gals Updated on 6 Sep 2013: Stupid t shirt pictures won't load! Updated on 8 Sep 2013: It's all coming along I guess, I have those spots that are healing slowly. I hope the pictures will load this time. I'm doing good, some days my breast just hurt, like tight, achey, tender, raw feeling like I wore a sand paper shirt, other than that, just peachy. Updated on 12 Sep 2013: I got my stitches out, just little "knots" that were holding me all together, whew! I'm soooo glad I didn't come apart, right there on the table! I'm feeling better every day, I can do more each day. I still can't hold my toddlers :( My sweet mom had to finally get back to her real life so I'm on my own, sigh, I will embrace a dirty house and food from a box! Updated on 15 Sep 2013: I had all these quality bras that were way to small, a lot of times I used them under a sports bra to work out, but that's it, could NEVER wear otherwise. So one such bra was my Bali 38 DD, Well it's to big! It seemed so small before I really thought I would be able to wear after. Not happening! I'm D cup, I'm slightly mystified. So I went and bought all new bras! Yay! PS said I can wear any type of bra, including under wire as long as it's not bothering my scars, which are still healing, not as nicely as I had hoped, but it's okay, just so slow. Small Victories: I was soooo pleasantly surprised to see my WHOLE lap while sitting! Everyone who sees me thinks I lost weight and comments that I look great :) I love that. It's funny how men make so much more eye contact. I love t-shirts, so happy I look good in them, better than before! Updated on 19 Sep 2013: I have to say I thought my incisions would look so much better by now, they look worse. I'm sad. I'm still pretty easily tired too. I started massaging the breast and it's helping to soften them. The odd thing is when they start to move they feel like spots of jello in the area of movement! It waa the weirdest feeling, I liked the boobs stiff all Barbie style. I'm getting used to having them move, they are still tender and I need some Aleeve once in a while after a tough day, and mild swelling too. I don't know what to think about the incisions, they seem worse, doing to much now that I don't have help? I'm posting pictures, I think I'm starting to get a reaction to ointment, if you look closely you can see a mild rash at the incision line under left breast with large wound..... Boobs are a little red took these shots right after massage. Does anyone else still hold their boobs to shake things, like ketchup? I'm still glad I did this, it's so much better than what I had! I can't wait to be a 100% I miss really playing with my toddlers! I guess I miss hugging the hubby close too, happy, healthy healing ladies! Updated on 3 Oct 2013: So I'm still busy healing, the wounds are slowly closing. I believe that these openings are also causing the breast swelling I have every day. I can't find a comfortable bra :( I love soft light support sports bras at night, I even like more supportive sports bras if I'm home, but the perfect bra for out and about still alludes me. I'm sure it's because of the open areas, especially the one at the bottom. So everything else is going well, I'm doing more each day and I'm a little less tired. (Thank God) I love the new girls, I really do, sooooo much better than I had before! I would do this again complications and all. I can't wait to see my final result! Updated on 4 Oct 2013: When I updated my review I forgot to update the boobs from the front,They are coming along slowly. I do love them so much more than those ol' sag bags I had! I'm getting excited as I see they are close to healing and getting to wear bras and clothes I like. I really just want to enjoy the new girls! I feel bad for my hubby, he can't enjoy them either! Soon ladies, soon! Updated on 10 Oct 2013: Well ladies, healing is coming along. I'm doing a little more every day, today I carried my hefty 3 yr old, it was still kinda uncomfortable because the boobs just stay tender, but we both enjoyed it! Hugging again is nice too. No major news, but one wk did make a difference in my wounds, will post pictures of how it's healing. Updated on 10 Oct 2013: Hope all the pictures load this time, it really shows the difference, I'm quite hopeful about the progress! :~? Updated on 10 Oct 2013: Having a hard time loading all the pictures! Updated on 12 Oct 2013: I can't believe what I saw today! I'm so excited that the wounds are truly almost healed! I just had to share! Updated on 12 Oct 2013: Jeez, what's up with uploading pictures! Updated on 12 Oct 2013: Jeez Updated on 12 Oct 2013: DAMN Uploads! Updated on 12 Oct 2013: Double Jeez!!!! Updated on 17 Oct 2013: The body is truly amazing. This road has been such a challenge, and I would gladly do it again. I'm finally getting to the truly healed stage, I can't jog yet but I'm on the road! I bought night gowns with pre-made breast pockets, you know the kind, well I haven't worn one in 20 years! That is until the other night, I LOVED it! I could not get over the fact that my boobs don't sag 12 inches past the horizontal lines of the gown, it was an awesome feeling! Updated on 17 Oct 2013: Well since I can only post 3 pictures (from phone anyhow) at a time, hence the double post today. I'm sorry for all the shine in the pictures I took these right after massage with oil. I'm excited to be at this stage in healing, there is a lot I still can't do but I'm closer every day! Updated on 6 Nov 2013: I feel just about 100% again, yay! I absolutely love my new breast, they were worth every penny, every pain pill, every tear, and every scar! My only regret; why didn't I do this ten years ago? ! The numberone tthing in getting surgery of any kind is trust your surgeon, it really makes a difference, especially if there is a complication. Love yourselves ladies, do this surgery for you, don't worry about anyone else, I feel great about this decision, I had niegh sayers, and they can go suck a popcicle! Updated on 20 Nov 2013: The Good ; My boobs stay up when I remove my bra, I can go shamlessly braless, I wear certain clothes braless, my breast fit my body better, Hubby say they look better than before, My back / neck has diminished , they are still all me (hubby's imput), I can see my WHOLE lap while sitting, I'm stared at for my good looks, not my big ass [RS bleep], I can hug closer, they don't flop about at ..u-hum..inoppourtun times, seat belts like me now, my bounce is sexy,not sloppy, I can find my bra size on the rack not just the internet, swimsuit tops don't fear me, wardrobe options are endless,, they stay up when braless, they don't get I the way while sleeping, shaving, making babies, or holding babies, I feel normal, instead of freakish, did I mention they stay up? That's all I can think of right now. The Bad; They are a little numb, they don't quite work like they used to, touching them is still a little odd, not erotic yet, some day hopefully many years from now they may sag again. . The Ugly; You have to have surgery, sometimes complications,, scars, possibly long term insensetivity... Updated on 12 Dec 2013: So here is a series of pictures showing the scars up close. They feel flat for the most part and don't really hurt unless something is pressing directly on the scar for an extended period of time. I have used Palmers scar oil, Bio oil, Vit E, and Shea butter (pure hard stuff) and I bought the silicon sheets but chickened out of using them for fear I would probably be allergic. I couldn't stand the smell of Palmers, so I stopped using it, I had an allergic reaction to the Vit E, So Bio oil and shea for me. I'm eventually going to have to find something to lighten the darkness of the scars or it literally will takes years to lighten on their own. I really don't care I see past the scars, and it seems hubby does too. I'm grateful for my boobs, I really am, I went on a website for women who have had breast reconstruction , mostly cancer patients, and ladies, I'm truly grateful for my imperfect boobs. I hope you all have a joyful Christmas and Healthy Healing! Updated on 6 Jan 2014: Hi ladies, I wanted to share how I really love my options now. I love the comforts of a smaller bust, but like feeling like a vixen sometimes and having cleavage worth checking out! So I got a couple of push up bras , let's just say that the hubby stood up and took notice!!! Updated on 14 Feb 2014: Hi ladies! I hope everyone has been happy and healthy. I wanted to share that I'm still very happy with my decision to reduce my breast. They are still as imperfect as ever, and I love them.I'm grateful for them. If you are considering this surgery, there are things to consider before doing this, like scars, if you're pretty worried about scars, you are NOT ready, wait, or you will not be happy at all. Really consider all that can go wrong, and weigh that against what you have, and experiencing right now. Go into this knowing you will not have perfection, but can be perfectly happy with your new smaller breast! If you think more on the health benefits then the complete aesthetics of the transformation you may accept the new you a little easier. That doesn't mean you shouldn't have even nipples, or a nice shape,which leads me to pick your doctor with complete care! Look at tons if pictures of his work, have him explain how some patients came to their results, good and bad. Like someone who choose to for-go reccomended lipo in an area for whatever reason may not look as good in your eyes, so ask. I wanted to share with all my BR gals, don't get hung up on size. Once you have a realistic expectations of the size your doctor is able to get you down to, roll with it, don't risk losing a nipple or worse to be smaller, safety 1st. If you can, go back later and reduce more, their are some breast so large that one reduction is not enough. Take my reduction for example, my Dr. said he could get me down to a large C, and for me personally I was like NO way, for my body shape I thought a D or large D was okay, and he honored that request. I was willing to pay out of pocket for this size because insurance required a minimum removal to cover costs. It turned out he took more than the minimum and I still have the size I wanted. Now I've mentioned before one boob is way bigger, I have chosen not to fix it, I'm okay with it maybe because it's been bigger my whole life. So I have pictures of me in some bras that all pretty much fit, and the sizes vary greatly! It's nuts! So don't be afraid of buying a slightly bigger bra , don't fear the cup size or band size, buy what fits most comfortable. Like I'm basically a 36D-36DD, but I buy 38 often because of comfort, I also had a tummy tuck a few wks ago and you experience a lot of swelling, so the extra room on the band helps. I shopped for bras recently and will probably start buying more 36's You will notice my full coverage beige bra is a little big, I will be returning it for a 36 all the other bras are fine at this point. I bought bras to soon after my reduction 36D's and have given most of them away, it's best to wait till the breast are done settling and "fluffing" . So please ladies don't beat yourselves up over size and remember you have options bra brands and style are dramaticly different, seriously, my push up is a DDD! I swear I stuffed myself into that size before! Your mind will scream noooo, that's to big! But don't fret, roll with it, go for comfort. I hope you are all happy & healthy, especially mentally as you move forward in this life changing journey, whatever stage you are in. Happy Valentine's Day! Tonight when I removed my bra, not matter my new (smaller, healthier) size know I'm doing it with pride, shame has left the building, for good! Updated on 18 Feb 2014: So ladies I did return the tan colored bra that was in the previous post because it was a little big in the cup and band. The blue bra in this post is the same style fullccoverage as the tan. The black lace is also from Lane Bryant, (balconette) Please notice how I'm spilling out of the purple and grey number, same size as lace one. What a difference right? I do prefer the 36 band, but I'm wearing a bra extender with some 36's just for comfort when I swell, or toward the end of the day, best little invention since the invention of the dang bra! I also put on a 38C today and the thing fit! Nicely too, I was just totally surprised! So again it's all about fit and comfort not really size. Happy ( hopefully not frustrating) bra shopping! I included a before picture to show how far I've come, and what a difference the reduction has given me, in more then one way. Updated on 21 Mar 2014: Okay ladies, I've had more bra drama. Okay so I was all,"Oh I love having options! " well I love puppy dogs and rainbow too! I was in a fools paradise. So remember I posted,"check me out in these all these different bras, they all basically fit" Well I lied, I THOUGHT they fit. I realised I was wearing my new bras like I had my old boobs. I didn't follow my own advice even! I wasn't truly fitting the new girls properly. I didn't follow my own advice in that I must have been afraid of a "big" number or size. My wake up call was removing a bra I loved and saw and felt terrible, the odd thing is I wore the damn thing like 5 times before I connected the dots! Bare with my lunacy ladies, I feel pretty dumb. So I went to Intimacy for a proper bra fitting. I'm a 34 F, wow right! Well wearing a bigger band allows you to wear a "smaller" bra cup, because the cup will naturally be a little roomier. The problem with that is the main support of a bra is in the band! Good lord knows how big my old boobs really were!!! So I see my boobs sitting where they are supposed to, and how much smaller they are and think, there's no way my boobs can be that big, (meaning that new cup size) and then I think, well they kinda aren't, they fit my body and I love them, and that's what matters. I want to take care of them and wearing a proper bra is a good part of it. Sizes be damned! So all that to be said don't worry about bra size, just bra fit. I do know that when I gained wt after the br, I'm sure some went to my boobs, I even think at the time I hoped it. I thought them to small at first, So please learn from my mistake, give your body time, they will 'fluff" out and in about 12 wks you WILL know if they are too small, or to big. I would still wait the whole yr for any revision though. I know my body and I can't gain any more weight, or it will go to my boobs, when I lose, the boobs is the very last place to go :-( LEARN FROM ME! Be blessed ladies, andhappy hhealing! Updated on 21 Mar 2014: Here are some pictures of me in different bras, and no bra. I'm not sure if you can tell in the pictures but I look pretty small busted in the proper fitting bra. I do in person for sure. I don't care for lace bras and such, I think they are pretty but impractical, bit I'm thinking out the box for once when it comes to the new me! The lace is bumpy under t shirts, so I wear a a tank for smoothing or a different bra. May your bra hunting be successful! (May the odds be in your favor!) Updated on 6 Sep 2014: Hi ladies, I can't believe it's been a year. My breast have not changed much since last update. They did shrink a tiny bit when I did hcg, that's probably because it targets stored fat. I had my first mammogram since the BR, and of course there was a finding! It's not all unusual to have calcification, fat necrosis or some other odd change, so don't freak out when you are required to go back for further testing. You bet there been some change in breast tissue after a BR! I now have pain in the scar tissue under left breast after the mammogram,all the squeezing I guess, my boobs feel way "softer" or less firm after mammo too. Kinda wish I had skipped this year. I would do all again, complications and all! My BR has freed me in so many ways.I'm not bothered with the look of my scars, and they haven't faded much. I'm mad that one is sensitive now, mostly if touched or laying on it, otherwise I am fine. (Stupid mammo!) I also own like 15 swimsuits now hehehe! To all the ladies considering a BR, this is not a magic surgery, and requires your positive additive, and pick your surgeon VERY, VERY carefully, it makes a huge difference and have a truly realistic outcome in mind, if you have 50 year old Brest when you go in, you won't come out of surgery with 15 year old ones.... but close! Just kidding, Don't compare yourself constantly to others and don't be overly critical of every little thing, and you will embrace the new you sooner! Good luck and God bless every one of you in whatever stage in your journey you're at!
I have finally decided to get a BA. I can't wait. I am 39 years old, 5'7 and 130 lbs. I had my consultation last week and my PS told me that because of my body frame and the thinness of my skin that I can only go 350 cc MAX. I have seen many reviews and have read that women with my body frame and size have gone much larger. We decided to go with the high profile silicone 350 cc for a more natural look. My pre-op is on May 14th and I'd really like to ask my PS if it's possible to go to at least 400cc. He said in the consultation that if I went any larger that I might risk the implants spilling into my armpits. I don't think there's any harm in him taking a few different sizes into surgery and seeing just how much I can take without it looking unnatural. Does anyone have any suggestions for me? Updated on 30 Apr 2013: Only 22 more days! I'm so excited!!! Will talk to my ps on the 14th of May to discuss my implant sizes. I'd really like to go at least 400cc HP silicone. Updated on 1 May 2013: I am getting so nervous and more uncertain about what size implant I should get. I keep reading reviews and looking at post op pics. It's confusing because everyone seems to have different results even if their measurements are similar to mine. I think that I am probably going to go with 400 cc HP silicone implants. I've called my PS and have gone to his office to ask if I could try some sizers on. They told me that I can't do that until my pre-op appt. That's 2 weeks from now. I think I'm driving myself crazy with worry. I don't want to be disappointed that they are too small after I've spent so much money. Am I the only one that has gone through this much worry and anxiety or is this completely normal? I went shopping today to buy sports bras for after my surgery but I have no idea how big I'm going to be. I still have 21 days before my BA. this waiting really stinks. Updated on 8 May 2013: So I'm 1 week away from my pre op and 2 weeks away from surgery. I couldn't be more uncertain about the size I want to go. I think between 350cc HP and 400cc. I still am so undecided! I wish all you girls out there that have been trough this already can give me some advice. What questions should I ask in my pre op appointment. PLEASE HELP! Updated on 13 May 2013: Well ladies, I have 9 days until my BA. My pre-op is tomorrow and I have so many questions to ask my PS. I feel so much anxiety over this. I used to feel nothing but excitement but as the day draws nearer I'm quite nervous. I wonder if this is normal. My breast width is 12.5 cm and I think I want to go with 400cc HP rather the the 350cc he suggested at my consult. I called his office today to make sure that they would have the sizers that I want to try on. They told me that my PS won't go with a size that is unhealthy for me which I can respect however, I feel that 400cc's will be ok. We'll see what he says tomorrow. Another thing I worry about is how much more will I weigh once I get the implants. I am very picky about my weight. I have so many questions and feel so much anxiety over all this. I have waited my entire adult life to get implants. Now that it is finally here I feel nothing but uncertainty. Does anyone else feel like this? Updated on 14 May 2013: So I had my pre op and my PS and I decided on the Mentor 400cc HP! I'm really excited! I got all my meds and instructions. 8 more days!!!! What else will I need after surgery? Any suggestions? Updated on 15 May 2013: Well 7 more days!!! I posted some more before pics and a couple with 375cc rice sizers. I like the look at 375 and with my 400cc HP going under the muscle I'll lose about 10% so I'll be just a tad bigger than these photos I'm thinking! I can't wait!!!! Anyone else getting their BA next week? Updated on 20 May 2013: So, two more nights and I wake up to get my BA!!!! I'm nervous and excited!!!! I am going 400cc Mentor HP! I hope this will make me a full C small D. Only time will tell now. I have all my prescriptions and supplies that I need for after surgery. Surgery is at 12:30 on Wednesday. I bought several bras for after surgery. I got the Ahh bra and the Genie bra and quite a few other sports bras. My surgeon is sending me home in a surgical bra that he says I'll have to wear 24/7 for three weeks. I hope I can still wear my dresses for work without it showing. Oh, I am sooooo excited! I will post after pics as soon as possible. Good luck to all you ladies going into surgery this week. See you on the other side!!! :-) Updated on 21 May 2013: So, I have pretty much finished up work for the day and I can't believe it's the night before. I am so nervous and excited. I'm more nervous about the pain afterwards than anything. I know I've had 4 kids and three of them were c-sections so I should be able to handle this right? I have everything ready to go. Meds, supplies, new bras....now all I need are the boobs! Most everyone that knows me knows that I am getting a BA and everyone has been super supportive. My only concern is going out into public around acquaintances. My kids last week of school is next week and I have to attend some end of school activities. I'm a little nervous about the stares that I'm sure I'm going to get. Does anyone have any advice on how to deal with going out into public right after their BA? Updated on 22 May 2013: So, I slept ok. I had planned on sleeping in until 8am but here I am at 6am and I can't go back to sleep. I don't have to be to the surgery center until 12:30 pm. Surprisingly, I am calm and not nervous. Just ready to get this done and over with. I hate that I can't have my morning coffee. If I feel up to it today I'll post after pics. Wish me luck ladies....see you on the other side. Updated on 23 May 2013: So, they are settling in nicely. Are they big enough? I'm still uncertain!!!! Updated on 29 May 2013: What a whirlwind of emotions I have been through over the past week. I was not prepared for the emotional ups and downs that I would be experiencing after this surgery. Let me start by saying that surgery went well and flawless. When I woke up I was in the most extreme pain and I could barely breathe. I had to eat 7 crackers before I could take my pain meds. The ride home was horrible. Every bump and turn was extremely painful. I went to my boyfriends moms house and went to bed until the following day. Surprisingly I felt a ton better the next day and was up and about talking and moving around quite well. Then on Friday it all caught up to me and I was throwing up uncontrollably and had body aches everywhere and a low grade fever. I called my PS and he assured me that everything was fine and to call him should I have any more problems. THe next day I wanted to go home so I could be in my own house. My boyfriend took me to his house where I stayed through the weekend. I was able to get up and around pretty well but by Monday I was vomiting again and I still hadn't been able to go to the bathroom even after the stool softeners that I took. Every day has been an emotional roller coaster for me. I have asked myself over and over why did I do this to myself and how could I have put myself through this. Not to mention the implants feel so foreign to me and all I can say is I want to feel normal again. Has anyone felt this way before? I haven't gotten to the point where I feel like it's worth it yet. All my friends say that I look great and that I look very natural. As a whole I feel satisfied with my results I just want to get off of this emotional roller coaster of second guessing my decision. Updated on 31 May 2013: Things are getting better. I'm starting to feel more comfortable with my new look but I have to say I'm 9 days post op and I'm still pretty exhausted and drained. I also think I gained a few pounds however I'm happy to say that I'm starting to feel like its all going to be worth it. I haven't gotten any comments from anyone on my results. Should I be insulted? Lol! Updated on 5 Jun 2013: So I'm two weeks post op and I'm getting much better! I think the girls look much better with each passing day and I'm very happy with the results.
Because this was breast cancer and not elective I was scared. From the front office to the nursing staff to Dr. Gross himself, I was put at ease from day one. If I had to have fake boobs then I at least wanted them to look good and they are beyond what I could have imagined. Never a wait time. Highly Recommend.
