I had been suffering from chronic neck and upper back pain since 2013. For many years it just became a normal part of my existence . It wasn't until about 2016-2017 when my left arm and fingers became numb that I started thinking this isn't right. I had been to physical therapy, tried prescription drugs. The only drug that worked was Prednisone, and you can't keep taking that. What i did not notice was my breast had went from a 38 C in 2003 to a 42 F in 2017. I did not notice the deep grooves in my shoulders. I did notice a heaviness in my chest that was almost affecting my breathing. I had not been wearing the correct bras either. Last Fall (2017) I started to realize, it is my breast causing me trouble. I spoke to all of my doctors, Gynecologist, Oncologist, Primary Care, Physical therapist and even a mammogram technician and decided I should have a breast reduction. Surgery was March 9, 2018. The price has not been confirmed yet. Above is an estimate only. BCBS/ DE would not predetermine or preauthorize my surgery. I met all the criteria for coverage, and am still waiting to find out the actual costs. My pain was so severe I didn't care. I will say that the constant chronic pain in my neck and back has stopped. It has been 1 month since the surgery and my back and neck pain on a scale of 1-10 is now 0-1. My neck and back pain that was everyday for years is down to maybe once a week. I am so thankful for this surgery. I can't imagine living the rest of my life in chronic pain. Would totally recommend this surgery.
Updated on 28 Apr 2018:
Some Before & After photos. #graphic
Updated on 6 May 2018:
This is week 10. I recieved my Blue Cross Blue Shield explanation of benefits... "this is not a bill". The 10 G's was for the day of surgery & the overnight stay. I was fortunate that my insurance covered that cost. My neck and back have not heard since March 8th. I wanted to shout out Christiana Hospital for being so professional kind considerate and courteous. I had an awesome team by my side the whole way... this price does not include any fees from the surgeon.I've included some pictures of my progress?
Updated on 30 May 2018:
Day 75 post surgery .. i had done a lot of cooking & some yard work past couple of weeks. I felt like I may have pulled something. For approx 2 weeks I was in a lot of pain, sharp sensations, aching, soreness, swelling, red, very sore to the touch. I had not experienced much pain at all until now. I found out there may be an infection. I started antibiotics. Two days later still not great so i took some Advil and applied an ice pack. 20 minutes later I realized I had sprung a leak. I ran to look in a mirror and my left breast had opened a NEW tiny hole (it broke thru my skin) that was GUSHING what looked like Chocolate Milk (no smell)... I was horrified and could not get it to stop. In hind site i have to LMAO because it was like a scary movie scene mixed with a McDonald's milk shake machine.... I called my Doctor and was told "THIS IS GREAT"... really?.... yes... it was the built up toxins infection and who know wtf else... she said massage it and encourage more to come out... I felt so much better! That was May 14th it is now the 30th. I still have a little clear leaking going on. Follow up visit tomorrow May 30th. I did not have any drains post surgery. The right breast had no problems. The hole is supposed to be fine and close on its own. I hope soon... I gotta get to a beach !!!
Updated on 30 May 2018:
Details in May 30th post "My Left Breast Got Infected & Turned into a Chocolate Milkshake Machine"
Updated on 1 Jun 2018:
85 Days - 2 Months 24 Days
My infection has cleared up nicely. Scars are fading. The little hole under my left breast is healing. My Breast are feeling soft. My nipples are very active. I feel like a real C cup. On the weekends I go braless. I have a closet full of shirts I can wear now that don't pucker My neck & back are still pain free ? In Love w my Reduction.
Updated on 22 Aug 2023:
By far the best decision i have ever made. I have not had neck or back pain in 5 years.
I have currently been on a weight loss program and my breast look even better now.
Happy as ever, pain free, braless sometimes, lighter and SUPER CUTE. Running for president of the itty bitty titty committee.