After breast reduction there is no change in bra size/relief from neck & shoulder pain. Please tell me this is swelling? (Photo)

Question

I had large breasts 34DDD/E and severe neck and shoulder pain. I received a reduction on November 16th and I am still fitting into a 34/e bra 12 days post op. I see no change in clothing, bra size, or neck/shoulder pain other than a loft. Insurance covered this procedure and won't pay for something like this again. Could this just be severe swelling? 340 grams was taken out of the right side which is still bigger post op and 290 grams on the left.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

You are still in the infancy of your recovery. So, for now, be patient. You are swollen and until that swelling subsides, you can not judge your results. And of course your old bra fits. That does not mean that you couldn't also wear a smaller size as well. Bras are actually never a good indicator of actual breast volume. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after breast reduction surgery. Best to communicate your concerns/questions directly with your plastic surgeon who will always be your best resource when it comes to specific advice. Keep in mind, that it may take several more months (I ask patients to exercise patience until they are six months post op) for you to see the final outcome of the procedure performed.

For the sake of patients considering breast reduction surgery in the future: before undergoing the breast reduction procedure it will be very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon. Most patients wish to achieve enough of a reduction to help with their symptoms while remaining proportionate with the remainder of their torso. With the goal of improving communication with my patients I find the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) very helpful. I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “B or C cup” means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful. Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate.

Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with longer-term.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

It is often too soon to tell if your reduction was a small one, and six months is a better time to judge. Bra fit is also subjective, and if you still feel the fit is appropriate after a 300 gm reduction we can offer no more insight. Your surgeon will help guide you through your persistent symptoms.

After breast reduction there is no change in bra size/relief from neck & shoulder pain. Please tell me this is swelling? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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After breast reduction there is no change in bra size/relief from neck & shoulder pain. Please tell me this is swelling? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.