POSTED UNDER Breast Reduction Reviews
40 Years Old, 5'4" 143lbs., 32G - Finally doing this!!! - Aliso Viejo, CA
UPDATED FROM Chloe610
1 month post
6 weeks post-op
WORTH IT
Yesterday marked 6 weeks since my surgery. I know I'm not far into my recovery, but my surgery seems so long ago!
I feel fantastic. I can't believe how great this recovery has been for me so far. I really took it easy. I know many people return to work after 2 weeks or so, but my surgeon cleared me for 6 weeks. I did start working from home at 2 weeks PO, and last week I returned to the office. So, I really took 4 weeks of being at home. It was great. I just kept telling myself that I only have one opportunity to heal, and all the things I was restricted from doing would still be there afterwards. No rush, no stress.
So...my breasts. I'm very happy with Dr. McConnell's work. My right breast is definitely the slower to heal, but it's still coming along well. It's a little larger than the left, (and it was before the reduction) but I also think it is more swollen at this point than the left. Both breasts have tiny little scabs at each end of my vertical incision. I have no problem with this and am in no hurry for them to come off, because I would rather have the scab there over my healing skin than to cause an open wound.
I had a lift along with my reduction, and my breasts have still not dropped yet. I haven't had perky boobs in so long, so I'm really enjoying this part!
I still have some numbness, but it's improving. I have moments of tenderness, usually when I'm changing my tops or driving- but I feel much better about driving! I don't give it a second thought anymore!
I haven't started using anything for my scars yet. My skin has been really dry, so I put coconut oil on the areas of flakiness, but not on my incisions.
I really want to start exercising again. I lost 10lbs prior to surgery, and an additional 2 lbs after (thanks Dr. McConnell!) and I definitely don't want to blow all my hard work from beforehand. I'm going to start treadmill work, but I'm still leery of returning to HIIT. At least, not until my little scabs are healed. I don't want to tear any skin. I'm nervous about jumping/weight lifting. Ladies that are exercising at 6 weeks- how much weight are you lifting? My surgeon's PA didn't give me a number, and I know I need to listen to my body, but I'd just like a general idea. Also, at what point in recovery are we "in the clear" from open wounds? That has been my biggest fear. Each week that goes by without it happening I hear a choir in my head singing "Hallelujah!".
This weekend I am going to get a new sports bra for fitness and will get fitted to see where I am at this point. I know I am far from my final size, but I really just want to hear any letter less than "G" come from the saleswoman's mouth! So excited! I still can't believe this finally happened for me! I am so, so grateful.
I feel fantastic. I can't believe how great this recovery has been for me so far. I really took it easy. I know many people return to work after 2 weeks or so, but my surgeon cleared me for 6 weeks. I did start working from home at 2 weeks PO, and last week I returned to the office. So, I really took 4 weeks of being at home. It was great. I just kept telling myself that I only have one opportunity to heal, and all the things I was restricted from doing would still be there afterwards. No rush, no stress.
So...my breasts. I'm very happy with Dr. McConnell's work. My right breast is definitely the slower to heal, but it's still coming along well. It's a little larger than the left, (and it was before the reduction) but I also think it is more swollen at this point than the left. Both breasts have tiny little scabs at each end of my vertical incision. I have no problem with this and am in no hurry for them to come off, because I would rather have the scab there over my healing skin than to cause an open wound.
I had a lift along with my reduction, and my breasts have still not dropped yet. I haven't had perky boobs in so long, so I'm really enjoying this part!
I still have some numbness, but it's improving. I have moments of tenderness, usually when I'm changing my tops or driving- but I feel much better about driving! I don't give it a second thought anymore!
I haven't started using anything for my scars yet. My skin has been really dry, so I put coconut oil on the areas of flakiness, but not on my incisions.
I really want to start exercising again. I lost 10lbs prior to surgery, and an additional 2 lbs after (thanks Dr. McConnell!) and I definitely don't want to blow all my hard work from beforehand. I'm going to start treadmill work, but I'm still leery of returning to HIIT. At least, not until my little scabs are healed. I don't want to tear any skin. I'm nervous about jumping/weight lifting. Ladies that are exercising at 6 weeks- how much weight are you lifting? My surgeon's PA didn't give me a number, and I know I need to listen to my body, but I'd just like a general idea. Also, at what point in recovery are we "in the clear" from open wounds? That has been my biggest fear. Each week that goes by without it happening I hear a choir in my head singing "Hallelujah!".
This weekend I am going to get a new sports bra for fitness and will get fitted to see where I am at this point. I know I am far from my final size, but I really just want to hear any letter less than "G" come from the saleswoman's mouth! So excited! I still can't believe this finally happened for me! I am so, so grateful.
UPDATED FROM Chloe610
28 days post
One month post-op
Well, today marks exactly 4 weeks since my surgery. Feels like so long ago! My recovery has been pretty uneventful so far, though I think I may be a slow healer. I still have some small scabs on my nipples, and scabs along my incision lines under my paper tape. I see my PS tomorrow, so I am anxious to hear what he has to say. I think he'll either change or completely take off my paper tape. It's getting itchy and annoying, so I won't be sad to see it go. But me being me, I'm terrified of having an open wound when he takes it off. I'm such a worry wort!
I am still swollen and a bit tender. Also, I still have some numbness on the underside of my breasts. I hope that's normal at this point. I'll probably drive Dr. McConnell crazy with all my questions.
Overall, I feel fantastic. Each day I'm getting more and more back to my normal routine. I'm sure I'm capable of doing more, but I'm really taking advantage of the time I have to heal. I will post another update with more photos after my appointment tomorrow.
I am still swollen and a bit tender. Also, I still have some numbness on the underside of my breasts. I hope that's normal at this point. I'll probably drive Dr. McConnell crazy with all my questions.
Overall, I feel fantastic. Each day I'm getting more and more back to my normal routine. I'm sure I'm capable of doing more, but I'm really taking advantage of the time I have to heal. I will post another update with more photos after my appointment tomorrow.
Replies (3)
December 16, 2015
Glad to hear everything is going good! I'm at 4 weeks today as well and I completely removed the tape from around my nipples and everything looks awesome! I have taken it really easy and I have healed so good! Happy Healing!
December 23, 2015
Looking Fabulous. What is your after size. They still look nice and full.
December 24, 2015
It is SO good to hear from you, and to read your update! I haven't tried on a bra yet, or had a fitting done because I have to wear a sports bra 24/7 for 3 months-ugh. But my curiosity is getting the better of me, and after the holiday rush I think I will go get fitted and see what I am at this point. My surgeon said I will likely end up a full C, small D. I'm still swollen and I'm still waiting for them to "fall" a bit more. I think right now I may be a DD.
December 24, 2015
You look wonderful! I'm actually going to see the same surgeon as yours for a consult in January, he seems really good!
December 24, 2015
Thank you! I LOVE Dr. McConnell! He and his staff are so nice. I haven't reviewed him yet on this site, but he definitely deserves 5 stars.
I read your review and understand how frustrating the waiting game can be. A heads up about Dr. McConnell- he books up a month out, so if you see him in January, you won't be able to schedule your surgery until February. Don't let that discourage you. He is well worth the wait, and will take very good care of you. Please don't be afraid to contact me if you have any questions. Good luck to you!
I read your review and understand how frustrating the waiting game can be. A heads up about Dr. McConnell- he books up a month out, so if you see him in January, you won't be able to schedule your surgery until February. Don't let that discourage you. He is well worth the wait, and will take very good care of you. Please don't be afraid to contact me if you have any questions. Good luck to you!
December 24, 2015
Thanks so much! Its always a long road but thankfully time has been flying by recently. If I need to I'll definitely contact you, thank you!
December 28, 2015
Did you have same procedure with this dr? I am thinking of making a consult as well.
December 29, 2015
I'm sorry, I don't know. I never asked, because if my insurance wasn't going to cover it, I already knew I wouldn't be able to afford it out of pocket.
UPDATED FROM Chloe610
23 days post
December 10th
Today was my original surgery date! Now I am actually 23 days PO. I feel great, and still can't believe my surgery has come and gone. I was so scared, but now it's just a memory and personal triumph!
However....I hate driving! Every little bump freaks me out and I feel as if my boobs are going to fall apart! Anyone else feel this way, or should I just add this to my list of irrational fears??
However....I hate driving! Every little bump freaks me out and I feel as if my boobs are going to fall apart! Anyone else feel this way, or should I just add this to my list of irrational fears??
Replies (2)
December 11, 2015
I have SO enjoyed reading your journey!! Thank you for taking the time to post it. I can relate to so many of your thoughts, fears, feelings, situations...all.of it. The early development, the teasing, the horrible back/neck/shoulder pain, the matronly looking top half, the inabikity to exercise like i want. I dance and leotards are so difficult for me to buy. Nothing cute or backless. I have had to wear 2 and 3 bras to smoosh my boobs down to where they look "normal". And even still they just looked like big boobs smooshed down to look normal, lol. I have been a 32e/f-34ddd for as long as i can remember. All of my bras are granny bras. Pretty granny bras...but real deal 4hook granny bras. Swimsuit shopping is a nightmare. I cant wear dresses because the tops never fit. Cute fitted shirts make me look like a stripper. The emotional and physical weight has been a burden for as long as i can remember. I wanted to wait until i was done having kids (I have 3 and am done) before doing the surgery but a friend of mine lucked into this great surgeon who removed a cyst from her face and said "girl you need to call her. Shes amazing! If she was this consciencious on my face i KNOW she will take good care of your girls!!" My consultation was in october. My paperwork was submitted (to blue cross blue shield) and i was approved less than a week later!! My surgery was originally scheduled for last week but i pushed it back so i could get my house super clean and not have to go back to work till after the first of the year. My surgery was yesterday, i stayed overnight and got to come home today. Im AMAZED at how good i feel. Im sore and slow and very sleepy but not really having a lot of pain. My initial surgery was about 5 and a half hours long but i had to go back under later yesterday evening because i developed a hematoma which took about and hour and a half to drain/repair. I blead more than my surgeon wanted me to and my bp has been crazy low but i acutally FEEL really good! I will have my drains until next tuesday and am already over them and ready for a shower lol. Im swollen right now and have NO idea what size i am but i look/feel WAYYYYYY smaller already. My surgeon said i will be a b-ish cup when the swelling subsides - which is exactly what i asked for :) i also told her to err on the side of small. When she asked me in my initial consultation whay size i wanted to be i said "ohhhh...idunno. mastectectomy? AA?" lol. She said "how about a b?" Lol. And all of the pics i showed her that i liked were b-ish. So i cant WAIT to see them all uveiled. Before my surgery i could hold 4 pencils under my boob...now...not even one lol. Im so happy...and like you, i wish i had pursued it sooner. But also like you i have never had surgery and was terrified. And wanted to successfully breastfeed. Once i wrapped my brain around being pain free and having a better body image though, i was DOWN!
Congratulations on your surgery, your pics are beautiful and keep us all updated on your progress! Youre JUST enough ahead of me to give me a timely update/idea of whats coming next :)
Cicely
Congratulations on your surgery, your pics are beautiful and keep us all updated on your progress! Youre JUST enough ahead of me to give me a timely update/idea of whats coming next :)
Cicely
December 16, 2015
Thanks, Cicely! Congrats on your surgery- girl, you are a WARRIOR!!! I can't imagine having to go through two surgeries in one day! You have a great attitude, and I'm happy to read that you're feeling so good. I put on one of my old sports bras yesterday (4 hook as well!) and I couldn't even see my boobs under it! It was amazing!!! Tomorrow I'm going through my closet to donate the tops that are now too big! The recovery just keeps getting better, my dear! *Happy dance, happy dance!*
I'm glad you'll end up the size you wanted. I love my size, and I know they'll get even smaller once the swelling subsides, and I will love them even more! Haha.
So I think today is the day you're being freed from the drains! How are feeling now?
I'm glad you'll end up the size you wanted. I love my size, and I know they'll get even smaller once the swelling subsides, and I will love them even more! Haha.
So I think today is the day you're being freed from the drains! How are feeling now?
December 18, 2015
Haha! Girl i was WIPED. Two surgeries did me IN. My hemaglobin was (is) crazy low and im sooooo tired. But...other than that i really feel great!! My right side (the side i had the 2nd surgery on) is a little bit more swollen but i dont feel like it really HURTS any more than the other. Yesterday was indeed THE DRAINS COME OUT DAY!!! And it. Was. Glorious. Lol. I got to take a shower today for the first time since last tuesday and omg. Best shower ever. Lol. Im still kinda noticably swollen and really tender on the sides where my drains were but all that, my dr says in normal and will subside of the next few weeks. Like you, i have some numbing under my breasts still (moreso the left) but not bad. But i can tell that my nipples still function and have sensitivity which is nice (tmi? Lol. I dunno. Throughout this whole process i have become COMPLETELY desensitized about talking about my own boobs to total strangers lol. Funny sidenote, whenever i send my friends update pics im like...sorry. dude. Theyre nekkidy. But...i cant show you my boobs without showing you my boobs. Lol.) On another note, Theyre super itchy though. Are you really itchy? Mostly on the incision thats underneath.
One day i will find the time to document my journey on here and work up the nerve to post some pics. I so admire and appreciate everyone on here who has taken the time and courage to do it. It has really helped ease my mind throughout my own journey. Im 39yo and waited this long to do it because i didnt want to hinder breastfeeding. That was really important to me. And now that im for sure done having kids (and had the opportunity to breastfeed far longer than whats probably socially acceptable lol), this opportunity kind of fell in my lap, i havent had to come out of pocket not one single cent for it, i got an AMAZING compassionate and thorough surgeon and i KNOW it was my time. And only 7 days later it has totally changed my life...
Anyway, your pics are beautiful and you sound so peppy and like recovery is going great!! Your before and after pics look very similar in terms of size to mine...so its fun to see whats coming next :) do you know how much they took out on yours? I was at over 500 on each side. One a little moreso than the other. But in total, almost 3 lbs!! Maybe youve said somewhere before how much they took out before...if you have...sorry. Im blaming everything i dont remember these days on surgery "awe yea. Well. Sorry. I forgot. I had, like...major surgery last week ya know." Lol.
Happy healing and thanks for letting us all in on your journey!
One day i will find the time to document my journey on here and work up the nerve to post some pics. I so admire and appreciate everyone on here who has taken the time and courage to do it. It has really helped ease my mind throughout my own journey. Im 39yo and waited this long to do it because i didnt want to hinder breastfeeding. That was really important to me. And now that im for sure done having kids (and had the opportunity to breastfeed far longer than whats probably socially acceptable lol), this opportunity kind of fell in my lap, i havent had to come out of pocket not one single cent for it, i got an AMAZING compassionate and thorough surgeon and i KNOW it was my time. And only 7 days later it has totally changed my life...
Anyway, your pics are beautiful and you sound so peppy and like recovery is going great!! Your before and after pics look very similar in terms of size to mine...so its fun to see whats coming next :) do you know how much they took out on yours? I was at over 500 on each side. One a little moreso than the other. But in total, almost 3 lbs!! Maybe youve said somewhere before how much they took out before...if you have...sorry. Im blaming everything i dont remember these days on surgery "awe yea. Well. Sorry. I forgot. I had, like...major surgery last week ya know." Lol.
Happy healing and thanks for letting us all in on your journey!
December 11, 2015
Don't a worried. At this point all your sutures are healed. Unless you've had an infection or something of that nature you are well past the danger zone. In another couple of months you'll be able to wear push ups and underwire. You're doing great.
December 16, 2015
Thank you! I really appreciate your input. Sometimes I feel like I'm such a slow healer. I see photos from other women on here with the same recovery time, and I feel like they're much further along. But I know everyone is different. I just need to be patient. I am very grateful I have had a smooth recovery, so far.
Replies (2)