21 Years Old, Nursing Student, BR Got Approved! Loving the results so far.

Hey guys! Im really excited to share that after years of pain my breast reduction was approved by my insurance! I am ecstatic!! I am currently a 36E and would like to go down to a B. I am always hearing the "but why? a B is so small, atlas get a full C!" And I kindly explain while that may be what they think will look good aesthetically, I am in it for the relief! Like mentioned above, I am in an intense 5 semester nursing program. We do not get breaks accept for christmas and my insurance will not let me wait that long to have the procedure done. Well, I have about a 2 week period between my spring semester ending and my summer semester starting (May 2nd-May21st). My surgeon told me his closest date will have to be May 10th. So I am having the procedure done May 10th, and will be going back the 21st. Since this is such a weird recovery time, I need advice on what to expect! Ive read most women go back to work within a week or two so that keeps me hopeful. But I am curious on a few things:
-What should I expect the next few days after surgery? (pain, ambulating, range of motion, etc)
-Do I need to buy a special kind of pillow so I can be elevated properly in bed?
-What kind of help will I need around the house? What were you completely helpless in following the procedure where someone had to actually stay home with you?
-Are surgery bras and nursing bras similar? Have some girlfriends willing to lend their nursing bras but not sure if they will be helpful in recovering.
-What was your experience like when returning to work/school? (uncomfortable, painful, not too bad?)
-If you had the operation and had a child, were you able to breastfeed?- this is important to me.


Im sorry for so many questions! And i know I am going to be having a pre op visit with my doctor for some answers. But I would love to hear some experiences from you ladies who actually experienced it and how it affected your life! I am so excited to hear your responses and hopefully some words of encouragement!! I love reading these forums, they are definitely helping ease my anxiety! lol! I will keep everyone updated after my pre op visit on April 24th. Thanks guys!

I’ve been on RealSelf religiously reading everyone’s stories and how they have come along! It has made me feel as though I’m not alone!! After careful thought, ive decided to post some of my progress pictures just to keep track of my recovery and also to help get some motivation, advice, etc. I’m going back to classes tomorrow (8-5 M-Th ugh) so I’m enjoying my last day off recovering. I’m starting to finally feel like myself again so I cannot wait to see how I feel in a month-2 months time... just in time for summer.. and those CUTE BATHING SUITS!! :)

They are healing great from the front. Just underneath is what is scaring me. But I’m keeping them dressed and clean. I think they’ve also gotten a little bigger? May be swelling though.