had large pendulous breasts. Didn't like the way I looked in clothes, and felt breasts could never be supported properly because they were heavy. Would get pains in chest, I believe, due to the pulling of the breasts. Had reduction/lift and went from a 46DDD to a 44B/C. Love the way I look, but am still in the recovery stage, so I still have pain, itching, etc. Painful irritation from bra band rubbing on stitches. Ugh!
Updated on 24 Jul 2016:
It is almost two weeks post-op. A little bit of breast pain when I walk, reach, or bend. I had some lipo-suction done on sides of breast, and that definitely contributes to the post-op pain. However, I was informed that lipo would cause some post-op pain, and they w ere definitely right. All the black and blue is starting to fade. Steri-strips are still on, but may come off with my next visit to Doc tomorrow. We shall see. My major complaint is intense itchiness at times, which is actually an indication of heeling. I also have irritation from bra band on stitches or steristrips. In summary, these are annoyances, but temporary, I am sure. I am excited to watch the shape and size of breasts unfold as time passes. I was told in about 3 months, I should have a pretty good idea of permanent size of breasts. It should go down about another one-half cup size from it's current size. Doc said we were going for a small B. I will tell you, I no longer feel sweat under my boobs in hot weather, feel nice and light, and no pulling, and look much better in clothes. Anyone who is thinking about this procedure, which I have done for many years, take the bull by the horns, and do it. A little pain and uncomfortableness for awhile is definitely worth the long term benefits.
Updated on 24 Jul 2016:
One thing I forgot to mention is that I love taking showers. I find it very invigorating and soothing as well. The water feels great running on the breasts, and there is no pain when I wash the breasts all around the incisions, steri-strips, and breasts themselves. It's also the only time I get to take my bra off. I usually take my shower before bed time, and it allows me to go in to la-la land feeling pretty refreshed. I usually take Benadry and 1 hydrocodone before bed to help get me drowsy, so I can fall asleep, and to help control the itchiness. Best of luck to anyone considering going on this journey. You will not regret it if you have been dealing with large, droopy breasts and know the uncomfortableness and self-consciousness that comes with the territory. I did not have to get the nipple removed which was kind of a fear of mine.
Updated on 27 Jul 2016:
Had 2 week post-op check-up. Had my steri-strips removed, and did not have new ones put back on. Nurse said I was heeling very well. Did not get to see Doc, but I definitely trust her staff to make judgement. Do not have to return for almost a month. Still have some pain when I walk, stretch, or bend. Also trying to sleep can be a little daunting at times. The itch seems to be getting a little better, and last night was the first night I fell asleep without taking Benadryl or Hydrocodone. I will try to continue the act of not taking pills to sleep. I no longer take any pills for pain or itchiness. Although there is definitely still some pain and discomfort, it is tolerable. However, I walk very slowly, which is about all I can do at this point, to control breast pain while walking. I look forward to being painfree and resuming a normal life, which I am confident will come in a few weeks. Good luck to anyone contemplating procedure, and I am sure you will be happy in the end. Be patient. It will not be a bed of roses for quite awhile. I will keep you updated on my progress.