* Please consult a medical professional while persuing a breast reduction or plastic surgery
A reader asked me to write a positive blog about breast reductions. She wants to have a breast reduction but she is afraid. Fear is a normal feeling for everyone who has any type of surgery; therefore it is important to do your homework before going under the knife.
I took some time to read about the emotional and physical feelings women experience with large breasts and came to the conclusion that fear should be secondary. The knowledge of knowing you will no longer suffer from pain and discomfort and emotional dissatisfaction with your body image should be your positive thought. You should be excited that there is a medical procedure called Mammaplasty and only look forward to a new beginning. Smaller bras! No more gouges in your shoulders from bras. Better posture. No more back, neck, shoulder pain, and skin irritations.
Holding up disproportionate breasts, throwing away oversized tops and replacing them with form-fitting bodysuits and sweaters, and most importantly your emotional dissatisfaction with your body image will be replaced with self-confidence. You owe it to yourself to do your homework and study hard, so when you say yes, you do it with confidence. I personally would not hesitate.
Breast reductions can be performed at any age and depending on how much breast tissue is removed, it is considered reconstructive surgery. Many insurance companies will cover the procedure. Two positives off the bat, darling!
A breast reduction is most appropriate for women with normal, stable, weight, healthy with no threatening health issues, nonsmokers (smoking leads to scarring), and of course, a positive attitude.
Where Should You Begin?
The most important decision you have before your breast reduction is your choice of a surgeon. Your safety and the beautiful outcome you anticipate hinges on the surgeon. So, here are the criteria to look for.
- Board Certification. A member of the board of The American Board of Plastic Surgery and The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
- Graduated from an accredited medical school.
- Passes all oral and written exams.
- Completes five years of surgical training followed by medical school and an accredited plastic surgery residency program.
- Your surgeon should have operating privileges at an accredited local hospital.
DON’T BE EMBARRASSED OR FRIGHTENED TO ASK THE ABOVE QUESTIONS. THIS IS YOUR LIFE AND YOUR BODY.
The Procedure
It is important to know there are different procedures. This is due to the amount of tissue and skin that has to be removed.
The most common approach is a keyhole incision pattern. One is a circular pattern around the areola. Another is a racquet-shaped pattern with an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. If you have extremely large breasts, the nipple and the areola may have to be removed and transplanted to a higher position on the breast. In some cases, excess fat can be removed by liposuction if excess skin is not a factor. Now you are beginning to understand the importance of your doctor’s credentials.
The surgery can be performed in your plastic surgeon’s accredited office-based surgical facility, a hospital, and an ambulatory surgical site. The type of anesthesia will be based on the requirements of your specific procedure. Personally, I would tell my doctor I want an anesthesiologist, not an anesthetist. The qualifications of the doctor are as important as your plastic surgeon.
Following Breast Reduction Surgery
I read that after the procedure is complete, a dressing or bandaging will be applied and an elastic bandage or support bra is worn to minimize swelling and give you support. Sometimes, a small tube may be temporarily placed under your skin for draining. You will be sent home with specific instructions on how to care for your surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to reduce the risk of infection and aid in healing. Your take-home papers inform you of specific concerns to look for and when to follow up with appointments.
You will have swelling and discomfort. A support bra may be recommended around the clock for a few weeks. Keep your incision very clean and walk to prevent blood clots. Your sutures will probably be removed in ten days and you will be told to resume normal activity…but no heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. Darling, your healing will continue for several weeks.
Results and Outlook
It will take a few months to see the final results. And, it takes time for the swelling to disappear. As this continues to take place, you will see your brand new breast shape. You should be free of pain and discomfort because your body is better proportioned. And, you will have a new figure that will enhance your self-image and boost your self-confidence. Is it worth it? Yes! I am smiling.
How I Look at Plastic Surgery
A breast reduction is necessary for several reasons. Therefore, I give it a thumb up.
I am not averse to any plastic surgery, I am averse to overdoing it! The other night I was at a party where two women I have known since I was in my twenties were standing next to one another and in front of me as we talked and laughed. I know their real faces because I have watched them age over the years. They were both beauties. One still is. Guess which one?
The friend who had no plastic surgery or very little is still beautiful. My other friend has lost her looks. I have other friends who have lost their looks, too. So, beware of overdoing anything. You will remain visible and beautiful in your own eyes when you are happy, productive, and curious. That is real beauty. Those looking at you will feel your energy, your spark, your joy in life and see you as one hell of a visible woman!
Have you had a breast reduction or ever considered having one? Let me know in the comments below or share your ideas on Facebook. As well, send me your question at: info@www.honeygood.com! All names will be confidential and questions will be answered by me.
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I had a breast reduction at age 32. Was wonderful for a few years. Then my breasts grew back and are larger than ever. After a certain age surgeons won’t do a repeat. General anesthesia is too risky for an ” non life threatening procedure. “. Also insurance usually will not pay for the procedure. Huge breasts are a handicap unfortunately and the bra industry has no clue.
I agree the bra industry has no clue. And, on a personal level I agree about anesthesia. There are definitely pros and cons on every type of surgery. Warmly, Honey
Yes! Had one in 2009, and it was a great decision! Being able to wear a dress or buy slimmer fitting tops were two benefits. It also cut down on my headaches and helped me stand up straighter although I have scoliosis. Prior to my breast reduction, I had to buy oversized dresses to fit my top, so all of my clothes appeared slightly too big on the bottom and tight on the top. And bathing suits were a nightmare, which depressed me, because I love to swim. I am still happy I did it!
I am thrilled for you! warmly, Honey
I managed a board certified plastic surgeon’s office for 10yrs and I can say without hesitation that breast reduction surgery was so greatly appreciated by women who suffered for years with pendulous, heavy breasts. I cannot recall one patient who was dissatisfied with their decision for reduction surgery. I recall awoman who came in for a post-op visit wearing a dress…and she said it was the first dress she ever bought that did not need extensive alterations. My advice is to choose your surgeon wisely and go forward with the procedure.
So wonderful to hear. thank you so much for sharing this with everyone. Warmly, Honey