E+ to C- Buffalo, NY

As long as I can remember, I was the girl with the big boobs. I was the first to develop and wear a bra, the first to have cleavage, the first to wear a C cup, and eventually the first to grow out of Victoria's Secret...all before turning 18. For the past 4-5 years, I've worn sports bras nearly exclusively. People didn't understand how difficult it was to be a thin girl with unproportionately large breasts - my family certainly didn't get it since no one else had the issue, my friends were all jealous, and men just ogled. By the time I entered college and the professional world, it was clear that I was the first to be sexualized as a girl who cared about my appearance but could never hide the fact that my breasts were undeniably big. Since I was 17, I actively wanted a breast reduction. It never occurred to me that it would be covered by my insurance as I was always made to feel that I was overreacting. Just in the past six months was it suggested by several people who knew others that had the procedure that I would be able to receive insurance coverage.

Two months ago, I made an appointment with a plastic surgeon who immediately agreed that I should have the surgery when I went in for a consultation. She submitted my claim to insurance with pictures, and I found out two weeks later that I had been approved. I hadn't told anyone in my family that I was pursuing this since they hadn't been supportive in the past, but once I received medical coverage for the procedure I told my mom and dad. They were literally in shock, but they supported me moving forward. I have been very surprised about how supportive people have been.

I'm so excited for my procedure, and I'm hoping to lose some weight before. It's become really difficult for me to exercise in the past couple years with my breast size, and I felt that ultimately it didn't matter anyway since I couldn't have the body I wanted. Now I feel motivated to get back control and take advantage of the opportunity to look the way I want, to wear what I want, and not have sports bra straps hanging out of every outfit I wear. While I'm nervous about the scarring and how this will affect my image overall, I know that this will be a good decision for me.

The surgery is complete! It all finished up about 12 hours ago and I have been sleeping on and off ever since.

One of the only things I found myself getting nervous about leading up to the surgery was the anticipation of pain. Keeping my attitude positive and my mind set on healing quickly is definitely helping the process. I'm making sure to focus on how it will only last for a little while, and when I get through it, I will have the body I've always wanted. In all actuality it doesn't even hurt that bad! It stings a bit at the surgical sites and I feel a lot of pressure from swelling, but I have myself propped up against pillows with my feet elevated, so it only really hurts when I move around. If the pain is making you apprehensive I can honestly say don't worry - keep your mind set on the outcome and you'll likely be pleasantly surprised by how it actually feels.

It will actually be a week before I even get to see the outcome...my bandages have to stay on until my follow up appointment with my surgeon. It's probably for the best since anything recently operated on is a bit scary looking inherently. Once the bandages are off, I will post pictures of the healing process.