Breast Reduction Surgery: My Results and Recollections

In a previous article, I shared my hesitance to undergo breast reduction surgery. I wondered, was I vain? Did I not appreciate the figure I had been "blessed" with? Most of all, did I truly deserve a procedure that would relieve some physical symptoms, but that would also lift a heavy burden that weighed me down emotionally as well as physically? After much soul searching and encouragement from my husband, I investigated breast reduction surgery for myself and chose an Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon to perform the operation.

Surgery and Beyond: My four-hour surgery took place at an outpatient surgery center. I was fortunate to have surgical team which included an anesthesiologist, a plastic surgeon and a surgical assistant. Before rolling me into the surgical area, we talked one last time about my "goal" size. My surgeon examined my goal bra and marked my breasts with various guidelines. My goal bra served as inspiration and as a benchmark for the surgery. My surgeon used the keyhole technique to make an incision around the areola with a t-pattern underneath. She removed about a pound of tissue from each breast, and closed the incisions with surgical tape and super glue. She may have also used dissolvable stitches. A removable drain was inserted in each breast, and these drains remained in my body for about a week post-surgery.

Technically, the surgery was considered out-patient, but I remained in the hospital for about 23 hours for post-surgical care. Luckily, my husband and several friends took care of my children so I could concentrate on recovery. I was told that some patients are able to go home the same day, but I certainly benefited from an overnight stay.

I was prepared for pain after the surgery, but in my case, it was fairly minimal. For me, pain was localized in the breast area, and the recommended dose of regular Tylenol was sufficient to make it bearable. I avoided taking narcotics as I don't like their side effects. I wore a tight surgical bra around the clock, which minimized my discomfort after the surgery. Taking a shower was the most difficult activity for me, as I couldn't raise my arms very high, and the drains hung loosely around my waist area. So, I recommend having a helper to assist you for about a week ~ my mother-in- law graciously helped me after the surgery.

One week post-surgery: After the drains were removed, surgical tape still remained. But, I had more arm and torso mobility and was able to drive my car again. Already, I was overjoyed with my new size. I had gone from a generous 34 DDD to a 34 D. Right after surgery, I was surprised and even a little shocked at my new chest. For the first few days, I actually wondered if I had made a mistake. I simply wasn't used to having so much weight lifted from my shoulders! So, don't be surprised if your new figure takes some getting used-to. Having gotten my goal bra before surgery, I had prepared myself as best I could for my new size. But, it was still a bit of a shock!

Two weeks later: I returned to the office to have my surgical tape removed from the incision area. For the first time, I saw my new figure without any covering. It was a revelation, and I realized then I was truly happy with the results. Now, I could wear regular bras and hold my shoulders back without straining. I felt like a teenager again! Yes, there were scars and my breasts were still numb in some areas. But, I couldn't wait to look in the mirror every morning... the same mirror I used to dread.

Three months later: I am now one of those ladies I used to hear about... I wonder why I didn't have the surgery years earlier. Why did I wait so long? I know, I was afraid of the risks, and I didn't think I deserved it. I figured it was too extravagant. I thought I was self absorbed. In retrospect, maybe all these concerns were valid. But, now I'm so very grateful for the results, and I have no regrets.

If you're thinking about having breast reduction surgery, I recommend that you locate the very best plastic surgeon you can find. Make sure your plastic surgeon specializes in breast reduction surgery, and view his or her portfolio to see what kind of results to expect. I was worried that my breasts would not look natural after surgery. The technique which my surgeon used causes the breasts to have a somewhat flattened appearance at first. After about a month or so, the breasts gradually drop somewhat and begin to look rounder and more natural. I'm told, this will continue to happen during the first year after surgery. It's clear that not only are they smaller in size, but I also have a much more youthful figure.

PS: I hope you enjoyed reading my personal perspective on breast reduction surgery and how my results improved both my mental and physical outlook on life. However, since I'm not a doctor or medical professional, my essay represents just one patient's experience with surgery. It's not meant to advise or be technical in nature. It's also not a substitute for a qualified doctor's consultation. Every woman is unique, and every woman will potentially have a different outcome.

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