21 Years Old, Underdeveloped Uni Student on a Gap Year. Sydney, AU

From a young age I noticed I wasn't developing which worsened when I struggled with an eating disorder. I never fit a bra size and lived in sports crop tops with padding. I owned push up bras with the most possible amount of padding just to create the illusion of having small breasts. I felt very low once I took of the padded bra and it was also a constant reminder of what I have put my body through as I couldn't help but think maybe something would have grown had I not had an ED. I decided on surgery once it was clear that my breasts would not grow naturally. Breasts are part of the female body and due to not developing I felt I was stuck in my teenage years. I felt awkward walking past bras in the shop and I avoided going to the beach.

Despite the intense pain during the first few days post surgery, I am very satisfied with the outcome to date. The first 3 days post surgery were hardest. I felt mostly frustrated as it took me very long to get in and out of bed and get dressed. However, once I was up out of bed and went for a very slow walk in the sun I felt joy and accomplishment. Although I live in a full house I was aware everyone would be working and at times no one would be available to help me. Hence, I prepared meals before surgery, steamed and portioned out chicken in tupperware, had plenty of microwavable veggie bags and moved everything low so I could reach it post surgery. I strongly suggest you have some sort of recovery plan in place and give yourself plenty of time and be patient with yourself and others trying to help you (I used my gap year to ensure plenty time for full recovery). Slowly walking each morning upon sunrise helped me a lot, each day gets a bit easier and you feel better as you improve.

I understand full recovery takes a few more months but I already feel it was the right decision for me! I can move beyond the feelings I previously had and soon enjoy new experiences including bra shopping and not padding shopping!