Breast Reduction: Is it Right For You?

October 18, 2008 Posted in Reality

[After my last article about my breast reduction, I got some great responses. If you ever have felt like your ta-tas have gotten in the way of a healthy lifestyle (difficulty exercising, self-esteem hang-ups, back problems), you should definitely consider a breast reduction surgery.

By Melanie

It’s not like a “before” and “after” picture. You don’t just walk into a surgeon’s office and - VOILA! - perfect boobs. Just getting to the actual surgery was a long process.]

I was a late bloomer and I can’t remember a time when I was ever “in-between.” During my sophomore year of high school, I suddenly went from not having to wear a bra to being one of the chestiest girls in my school. Might sound cool, right? Nah. I couldn’t play my favorite sports anymore, I never found tops that fit me properly and, oh yeah, have you ever met boys in high school? They’re not so subtle about pointing out your rack.

My parents and I discussed breast reduction in high school, but I wasn’t ready. Last year, I decided I was ready at age 19 and a sophomore in college. My breasts had gotten even larger after going on birth control and my spine felt like it was about to snap.

The “leg work” for the surgery was tough. I talked to my general practitioner and she agreed that it was a good idea. I got some great references through my doctor and my family’s doctor and eventually found a good surgeon. I went in for a consultation and connected fairly quickly with the plastic surgeon. He explained the procedure and the pros and cons.

My surgeon also warned me (upon me asking, “So will they look better? Are the scars going to be ugly?”): Breast reduction is NOT a cosmetic surgery, it is a corrective surgery. If you’re going into the surgery for “prettier” boobs, you might want to rethink your decision.

The consultation went well and I learned a lot about the actual surgery. Although I did get a bit weirded out when they took a picture of my ta-tas (not including my face, thank goodness) and mailed them and a letter of recommendation to my insurance company.

My reduction was approved very quickly by my insurance and then it was a waiting game until the day of the procedure. I was more and more excited each day, except when it came to the actual surgery. I started to doubt my decision and got a little neurotic about everything that could go wrong: first biggest fear? Not waking up from anesthesia. Second biggest fear? Losing a nipple (it happens!).

All that worrying was for nothing, though; I finally had my surgery about four weeks ago and I couldn’t be happier. I’m still healing – and some days are harder than others – but it’s a decision that I’m glad I made. It was perfect for me and may just be right for you. Just make sure to do the research and know exactly what you are getting yourself into.

And never, ever envy a girl with DD boobs; they aren’t as fun as you’d think.

128039 Comments2008-10-18+15%3A10%3A30Melanie+-+Northeastern+University on "Breast Reduction: Is it Right For You?"

Sarah says:
Sat, 18th Oct 20087:59 am

I had a reduction at age 20, it was the BEST thing I ever did! Im more comfortable, I can wear bikini's and little sundresses, guys don't make rude comments, AND it looked like I lost around 20 lbs!

Jane says:
Sat, 18th Oct 20088:13 am

I lost weight before my reduction because I knew I wasn't going to look proportional and those two things completely changed my life. I highly recommend a reduction to anyone that's considering one. However, make sure you're careful about the surgeon you decide on…do plenty of research!

beth says:
Sat, 18th Oct 20088:15 am

great article, at 5'0 with DD boobs, I've been considering a reduction for a while… I think I've decided to put it off until after I have kids, since I know they'll swell right back up again. My friend had it done a few years ago, and her scars have pretty much faded almost completely. If you can keep updating this blog with your healing process that would be super-helpful!

ccmm says:
Sun, 19th Oct 200812:07 pm

I have to agree with Beth. My mom is a nurse and called me one day to tell me that I was possibly a candidate and told me all of the pros and cons as well. I decided I might as well wait until I am done having kids. Plus, I think mine are still growing. I also have to agree with Beth because I am only 5'1". I feel like they make me look a whole lot fatter and that I can never find clothes to fit right…much less BRAS!

purry says:
Mon, 12th Jan 20095:33 pm

Hi!

My girlfriend had a reduction. I'm not turned on by her anymore, is this normal?

Still love her.

Becca says:
Mon, 26th Jan 20094:10 am

I was 5'9" with a 44 DDD/DDDD before my reduction. My reduction was a year ago. I hate my scars, but I'm working on some body art to cover them… I've still got a ways to go before I can tattoo over the scars.

The surgery was terrifying for me after. I had a hematoma in my right breast, and had to be rushed back into surgery, about 5 minutes before i was supposed to be released to go home.

If you go through with the surgery, be sure to trust your doctor, and I would totally recommend staying the night, just so they can keep an eye on you.

Kat says:
Sun, 16th Aug 20099:22 pm

I've thought about getting a breast reduction for about 2 years now. I am 5' and my breasts just seem to large for me, plus its such a pain finding clothes that fit and it is just so frustrating trying to find cute bras and swimsuits. I'm definitely going to wait until i'm a bit older, probably after i'm done with college and i'm not sure if i will even go through with it. I wouldn't even know where to start to bring it up with my parents. But thanks it was great to read about somebody who has been through the process and i will definitely think about everything you said before making my decision.

Bobby says:
Sat, 7th Nov 20096:19 pm

Hi!

My girlfriend left me after her breast reduction, because I could get turned on by her anymore.

It sucks.

Bobby says:
Sat, 7th Nov 20096:20 pm

So I could not get aroused because of her smaller breasts, and she left me.

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