My journey to breast reduction— 30JJ 29 years old, 5’7, 150 lbs.

Ever since I started developing at age 9, I’ve been mortified of my breasts. I remember laying in bed and feeling my sore chest, confused by the hard discs that had appeared. Too embarrassed to go to my mother, I consulted askjeeves on the family’s Windows ‘95 and found that I had sprouted “breast buds.” Horror. By the 5th grade, my chest had become noticeable enough to warrant wearing a training bra; I felt ashamed and coveted my peers’ lack of development. Flash forward to 8th grade, I fill out my small chested 19 year old sister’s bikini top better than her... I probably wore a C or D cup and began to worry that I may grow to the size of my very well endowed older cousin. Throughout high school, finding clothes that would accommodate my DDD chest and fit my size 4 frame became a challenge. I hated my boobs— it was around this time that I heard of breast reduction; I saw it on an episode of a docuseries called “My Surgery Story.” I knew that one day, I wanted to get one. They continued growing.By my sophomore year of college, I had developed back problems and began seeing a chiropractor regularly. The idea of a breast reduction became more and more appealing but seemed like an unobtainable dream. Now, at 29, clocking in at a whopping 30JJ (which is impossible to find, so I settle for a 34I), the physical and emotional toll has become too much to bear any longer. I experience chronic back, neck and shoulder pain which forced me to leave my job as a massage therapist. I avoid shopping at all costs and try to hide my boobs in baggy t-shirts. I know that this surgery will provide a better quality of life and it’s all I can think about. I had a consultation with a plastic surgeon a week ago and am waiting for approval from my insurance company. I’ll write about that experience soon!

So, it’s been 8 days since my consultation and I just received a call from my insurance today that I’ve been approved!
A little about my consult and what was sent to my insurance:
My surgeon went through a list of symptoms with me and I told him which ones I’ve been experiencing; which included neck and shoulder pain, shoulder indents, rashes under the boobs, breast heaviness, difficulty participating in physical activities, poor posture and tingling in my hand. I also mentioned that it affected my work as a massage therapist. He asked if I’d ever seen a chiropractor or physical therapist (for at least 6 months) and I gave him the name of my chiropractor. He also asked about any pain medication (even over the counter), and I told him that I’ve used tiger balm (a topical analgesic). He sent all of this info to my insurance, along with photos he took, my measurements, his findings, and records he got from my chiropractor and primary care doctor. When he examined me, he said right away that I was a great candidate and should be approved; and if not, to appeal.

I was doubtful that I’d be approved (especially so quickly!), since it seems like insurance companies always try to do all they can to avoid paying for anything. The financial aspect of this, and not having insurance that would cover the cost (when I called last year they said they don’t cover breast reductions under any circumstances) has been a hurdle in my mind for so long. It’s a major reason this has always felt unobtainable, like a “maybe someday” dream put on the back shelf. So, this is good! It’s surreal that I’m actually closer to reaching that dream.

I got a call from the plastic surgeon’s office yesterday to schedule my surgery! Their first availability was June 27th, though they asked if I wanted to wait until September (my referral expires mid-September) since I wouldn’t be able to go swimming for at least 6 weeks or until they’re fully healed. I took the first slot and asked if I could reschedule if I change my mind. They said absolutely, and they’d let me know if anything opens up sooner. Now, I just have to make sure that date doesn’t conflict with my work schedule and tell my boss my plans. I’m not sure how to bring it up... I feel awkward. I’m a chiropractic assistant and I just started this past January. Hopefully, being a chiropractor, he’ll understand the physiology and won’t be phased. I guess I don’t even have to specify what kind of operation I’m having. Well, that’s all for now!