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POSTED UNDER Breast Reduction REVIEWS

28 Years Old, 32HH, No Kids

ORIGINAL POST

My story is pretty much the same as everyone's on...

LastStraw21
$8,000
My story is pretty much the same as everyone's on this website. I developed early, had trouble finding bras that fit me properly until I came across a specialized bra store nearby and was properly fitted (what a life saver!!). I mean, no one understands these problems unless they have them as well, the dreaded quad-boob, underarm-boob, and the permanent shoulder scars. As exciting as it was to find bras that fit, learning that the "proper" way a bra should support weight is on the ribcage rather than on the shoulders only led to my shoulder scars translating to my torso-- new problem!!

I had my breaking point this past summer when I looked online for bathing suits and only found 3 options that would fit me, and I was 0 for 3 for anything cute/attractive. Thus, I went into the previously mentioned specialty store for a new bathing suit and was told they did not have my size, that I should look online. I explained that online I could only find 3 options, and the response I received was a pitying look. That was the last straw; I was sick of only wearing the same 4 outfits constantly as they were the perfect combination of flattering but not " too much", and now I realized if I have children or gain weight and my chest grows any more I might as well wrap a hammock around myself and call it a day! No thank you!! I called a PS right in the parking lot of the store and scheduled a consultation.
I ended up having 2 different consultations and have decided to go with the 2nd PS I met. He spent time with me explaining the procedure and discussing the size I want to be. We had decided 32D would be the ideal size for my body type. I am 5'8" 170lbs. I explained to him that I do not want to be TOO small as I completely lack a butt and did not want to be totally without curves. He agreed that anything smaller may be " too much of a change emotionally". I have been keeping up with everyone's stories on this website, my biggest fear being my emotional reaction to this change. Everyone has been so strong, and so supportive of each other that I decided to share my own journey.
My pre-op is scheduled this Thursday and my surgery is January 4th (just in time for my birthday.. happy birthday to me!!)- I am so excited but also so nervous!! Some days I think " maybe they aren't SO big, maybe if I just lose weight I wouldn't need to do this 'elective' surgery" but deep inside I know- i've lost weight before with minimal change in my chest size, at work my back and neck KILL, the scars on my ribcage are worsening, and I can never unhear " pendulous breasts".
So now I wait, each day I check this site to hear how everyone else is doing in their personal journeys. I am trying to be patient for my turn.
Was it difficult returning to work after 2 weeks for anyone with a job that is moderately-strenuous? Was anyone told a certain time frame to stop alcohol or caffiene consumption before surgery day?
I look forward to sharing my journey with everyone!

Replies (6)

December 22, 2016
Hi! My surgery was on the 2nd of December and I just returned to work and I hate that I didn't take 3 weeks. I was a 38G and I'm only 4'11. I've struggled as well with weight loss but minimal in the chest area. Shoulder dents and back issues were ridiculous on top of suffering severe migraines. I'm happy I done the surgery but have withdrawal symptoms. I feel too small. I was told I was a 38 DD by a VS rep but I'll go back soon now that some swelling is gone. I pray all goes well for you and please listen when the PS says no stress. I'm dealing with some healing issues right now where one breast incision has opened a bit. My PS who is great, said it's expected due to the size I was
December 22, 2016
Thank you for the response! I am sorry to hear you are having healing issues, I hope everything clears up for you quickly! I just had my pre-op appointment today and my PS said 32D would be a good size for me, I am just worried because my surgery is close to my time-of-the-month so I will be more swollen so I am concerned that he doesn't take out too much as they will get smaller after my period. I guess we will see! I am leaving it in his hands and hoping for the best! I bet it is difficult emotionally after such a huge change, but just remember all the pain you were in and I am sure clothes shopping is a bit easier??!
December 23, 2016
Yeah and I've noticed a drop as well after the swelling went down. Good luck to you get us updated
December 23, 2016
Hi! I'm a 30i so very close to your 32HH. I kept saying ME, TOO! While reading your review (especially the lack of bathing suits!) I'm wondering if you think you'll be posting any photos? Even in clothing? I don't have a date yet, but will most likely be in March.
December 24, 2016
I am such a chicken when it comes to pictures but maybe I will get the courage to post eventually! I will try to be as detailed as possible in my journey otherwise, I know pictures are such a help/informative. This is such an exciting but SUPER stressful time, I just keep hoping all goes well but we will see! I wish you luck! :)
December 24, 2016
I understand! It takes guts to post. I can only imagine how excited, nervous, scared, confused you must feel with your date so close. I wish you a smooth surgery and quick healing!! Please stay in touch!
UPDATED FROM LastStraw21
5 days pre

Less than 1 week!

LastStraw21
Less than 1 week to go before D-day!! All kinds of emotions racing through my mind throughout the days. Did anyone show their "wish boob" photos to the surgeon day of surgery? Also, did anyone have their BR right before starting their time of the month? I am concerned as the girls definitely swell right before, concerned with how this will affect the surgery... guess we will find out!!

Replies (0)

UPDATED FROM LastStraw21
Day of treatment

Surgery day

LastStraw21
I did it! I can't believe it is over. My pain level out of 10 has ranged from 3-4, the pain med they give are very helpful. My husband has me up and walking a little a few times today, definitely makes me a little sore but I know it's good for me to get up a little. I was given ice packs, can't really feel them though, not sure if it is from the dressings or if I am numb- stay tuned! My surgeon said everything went well, assured me they are " pretty" but also stated he did not take me down to a 32D, may be a little larger but honestly I feel back, shoulder and neck relief already it's amazing! I've read everyone else comment on their pain going away right after surgery but didn't think I'd be as luck but so far I am! I have drains, but they are not bothering me. I have to stay overnight tonight but can't wait to get home- it's just down the street... so close yet so far!! More later!

Replies (8)

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January 6, 2017
My reduction was on 12/28, so I'm just one week ahead of you. I was about the same size, was spilling out of a 32 I.
January 6, 2017
How are you doing? I had 875 out of lefty and 655 out of the right. Had my drains taken out today and passed out after the first one... oops!
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January 6, 2017
Doing well! Yes, I screamed slightly when the drains came out. On day 6 post, I was very light-headed and clammy, but that went away. I only used pain med the first 24 hours, so it wasn't from that. Still don't like how it feels to drive yet, but I did drive a few miles on day 7.
January 6, 2017
Ugh I can't even imagine driving, I'm sure healing speeds up the next few days though. I just bought a 2nd surgical bra because the ones I got from kohl's and Walmart had 0 support. Are you using compression? The surgical bra I have is a marena group.
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January 6, 2017
My surgeon wrapped me in an ace bandage for the 1st 24 hrs, then recommended just front closing sports bras, and said that looser fitting is better than tight. Confusing for sure! I had 648 out of one, 540 out of other (right around 5 lbs gone). You and I were about the same weight at surgery time (175).
January 6, 2017
Oh boy now not sure if I should loosen my surgical bra... haha. I just feel so much better with support but also afraid of necrosis. This is quite the journey. Are you happy with your results so far? I wish they always stayed this perky!
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January 6, 2017
It's amazing to see my torso again ha! So far, yes happy. I'm 42 with 2 kids, so it's been a long time since they were this perky. The weight off of my rib cage made it all worth it! I go back for a follow-up on 1/12.
January 6, 2017
Good for you! That's an exciting change. I have scars on my ribcage from the weight, definitely a relief! Hoping going back to work isn't too bad.