Breast Reduction Pros and Cons

I was blessed, or perhaps cursed, with large breasts (42DD). Throughout my adult life the large pendulum breasts were inconvenient to find properly fitting clothing or beach apparel. Also, my stature is petite, and the buxom breasts were completely out of form with the size of my body frame. My shoulders were permanently indented from bra straps and the weight of my breasts. And, neck, back and shoulder pain was routinely bothersome. In summer months, annoying rashes would itch and burn. Going bra-less was not an option, because the jiggling and heavy breasts were embarrassing, to me.

I had breast reduction surgery, and can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I ever made! My breasts are now proportioned to my body's frame and clothes fit comfortably. The constant neck, back and shoulder pain is just a memory, and feelings of embarrassment and self-consciousness are gone! I am very happy with the result of my surgery, and my body has healed without ugly scars. Would I do it again? Unequivocally, yes!

Obviously, I'm pleased with my surgery results. If you're struggling with painful complications from overly large breasts, you might want to talk to a plastic surgeon regarding options and expected results.

Breast reduction surgery, also known as mammaplasty, is a procedure that removes glandular tissue, fatty tissue, and skin from the breasts. Women choose to under go breast reduction surgery for numerous reasons.

Overly large breasts can cause chronic shoulder, neck and back pain, in addition to circulation and breathing difficulties. Bra straps dig deep into the shoulder tissue causing the skin to be irritated, red, and sore from the weight of the breasts. Also, women complain that they do not experience sensitivity or erotic feelings in their breasts.

Insurance companies do not consider breast augmentation as merely cosmetic surgery. Most insurance companies pay for breast augmentation procedures if it is related to health issues.

However, before you schedule this type of surgery, talk to a plastic surgeon, research, and consider the pros and cons related to breast reduction surgery.

Although, breast alteration surgery is common, it is a complicated and major surgical procedure. Any surgery comes with risks and possible complications, and breast surgery is no different.

Reasons to have breast reduction surgery:

1. Improve low self-esteem and self-image

2. Chronic back and neck pain

3. Hanging breasts and stretched skin

4. Rash under the breasts

5. Being able to lead a more active life

6. Alleviate limited and restricted activity

7. Improve posture

8. Deep, painful grooves in the shoulders from bra straps and breast weight.

9. Clothes will fit better.

Reasons not to have breast reduction surgery:

1. Breastfeeding may be problematic or impossible after breast reduction, according to the Mayo Clinic.

2. Breast tissue may change during pregnancy, and alter surgical results.

3. A partner might not agree

All these things need to be taken into consideration, but the decision should, ultimately, be yours. It's your body, it needs to be your choice. But, unfortunately many women live with their unnaturally large breasts, because that's just the way their bodies developed, and accept it as fate.

Some women might have a controlling partner, or spouse, that opposes breast reduction. They might, even become angry or threaten to end the relationship if his partner chooses to have breast reduction. Men, naturally, are attracted to large breasts, and the majority of males fantasize about sleeping with a well-endowed female.

But, many men choose their partners because of personality, beauty (in their eyes), and someone they trust. Although, breasts are the focal point of attraction and sexual desire, they are not the ingredient to hold a relationship together.

Being popular and attractive are qualities desired by all women, however, excessively large breasts can create obstacles for personal development and self-esteem. Many times, females are the brunt of crude jokes, leering eyes, and offensive jesters. Sometimes it seems as if we don't even have a name. We can be referred to as the one with the 'jugs;' the can be laughed at, mocked, or desired. The clapper of today's society can be very fickle.

If you decide to have breast reduction surgery, here's a few tips:

Compression Bras (Post-Surgical Bras):

Before surgery, purchase several good post-surgery compression bras. These bras have Velcro strips in the front of the bra, and can easily be put on and taken off without hurting your breasts. They provide the support and comfort needed until your breasts situate themselves within their new perimeters.

You'll need to wear this type of bra for several weeks after surgery, so get several, as oozing can occur and stain the fabric. A regular bra is not recommended, because they will irritate and rub the incisions under the breasts – which is not something you want to do! Comfort and healing need to be your most important priorities, after surgery.

Surprisingly, the post-operative pain is tolerable with the pain medications your doctor will prescribe. Most likely you'll be happy to lay quietly in your bed. Eat light, rest and take your pain meds!

Rainbow Colors!

Once your doctor says it's okay to unwrap the bandages and take a shower (about 48-72 hrs after surgery), you might be shocked – I know I was! Under those bandages you will find an array of black, blue, red, purple, green, and yellow colors. Your breasts will, probably, be unrecognizable and appear unnatural or deformed because of the swelling. But, don't panic, this will change throughout the healing process.

Tips For That First Shower After Surgery.

Do NOT stand facing the shower head as you normally would. Instead, turn your back towards the water flow and only allow it to flow gently over your shoulders. Your breasts tender and sore, so don't even think of rubbing a washcloth over the incisions, stitches, and bruised breasts! Bathe yourself as you would a newborn baby; gently and tenderly.

Gently, and I mean gently, dab a soft towel against your breasts to dry the area, and place a gauze pad over your nipples before putting on the compression bra. If you did not get one of these bras, re-wrap your breasts and chest area with clean gauze. You will need someone to help you put on the bra, or wrap the gauze and elastic bandage around your chest.

Don't lift anything heavier than a coffee cup, chocolate bon-bon, or a spoonful of ice cream!

Well, maybe that's an exaggeration, but lifting heavy objects is out of the question for awhile. Forget about carrying bags of groceries, or lifting children, all that is off limits!

Think of your breast reduction as a mini-vacation. And, in a short while you will need to go shopping for new tops! The old tops will be too big – don't you just hate when that happens!

Oh! I almost forgot, you will be able to go bra-less anytime you want, because you now have perky and firm breasts! You're going to feel so much better, no more back, neck or shoulder pain, and you're going to love the new you!