Breast Reduction Before And After

Breast reduction is capable of helping to eliminate many of the uncomfortable side effects that accompany excessively large breasts. Usually women will choose to have their reduction mammoplasty surgery to rid themselves of the painful and annoying medical conditions that can come along with their big breasts, instead of for cosmetic reasons. Skin irritation, breathing problems, and back and neck aches are just some of the problems that come along with big breasts.

The goal of a cosmetic surgeon for breast reduction surgery is to decrease the size of a woman's breasts and create a more aesthetically pleasing and healthier size of breasts. They will also create the most natural looking results that they can. The plastic surgeon will remove excess skin, breast tissue, and fat while repositioning the nipple during the two to four hour surgery.

Cosmetic surgeons typically recommend waiting until after breast development has ceased, even though breast reduction procedures can be performed at any age. Breast feeding and childbirth can have unpredictable and significant effects on the shape and size of a woman's breasts. Regardless, many women choose to undergo breast reduction surgery before they have children. These women often feel that they can address any future changes later. You must make sure to inform your cosmetic surgeon if you plan on breast feeding in the future.

During the consultation with your cosmetic surgeon, you will likely be asked about the breast shape that you desire as well as anything else that you would like to see improved about your breasts. This will help your plastic surgeon to fully understand your expectations. He will then be able to determine whether these expectations can be realistically achieved.

Three incisions are involved in the most common method of breast reduction. One incision will be made around the areola, another will run vertically from the bottom of the areola to the crease underneath the woman's breast, and the last incision will follow the natural curve of the woman's breast crease. Once the plastic surgeon has removed the extra breast tissue, fat, and skin, he or she will shift the areola and nipple to a higher position. In large breasts, the areola has usually been stretched, so it will also be reduced in size. Skin that was previously located above the nipple will be brought together and down to reshape the woman's breast. Under the arm, the contour may be improved through the use of lipoplasty.

Proper aftercare is a must for the best results and proper healing. Your cosmetic surgeon will provide you with guidelines for you to follow after your surgery. These will include both specific and basic things. By following them you will achieve optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Breast reduction before or after having a baby?
I have had very large breasts since i was 14 I am currently a 34D and I have always had bad back pain from it , I think from hunching over so they dont look so big. . So I have been thinking of getting a reduction But should I do this before or after i have kids? Will it effect breast feeding? I know they will get bigger when Im pregnant and im dreading it.
Im 5'3 and weigh 140lbs but I swear each breast weighs 10 lbs
- ANSWER:
  I would wait until after you have kids. It is very likely that you can't bf after the surgery. I have a friend who had a reduction in high school and it kinda "re-routed" her milk ducts to where the milk never made it to the openings of the nipple. Also, you might as well wait until after you have kids because pregnancy will make your breasts bigger no matter what, even if you never decide to breastfeed. It could potentially cause you to need/want the surgery again. The good thing is, big breasts don't tend to grow as much as small breasts do during pregnancy. It is very common for a woman to go from an A to a big C, but sometimes women with D cups only have to get a wider band. Not always, but sometimes.
  
  Also, I'm 5' tall and a 34D before pregnancy. They are big, but don't give me many problems. I wear them with pride and keep them modest. Maybe if you found some shirts that made you less self consious about your breasts you could learn to love them rather than want to change them. If the back problems are only due to slouching it would save you quite a bit of long hours in pain if. I only say this because breast reductions are expensive and very painful. 34D isn't that big, and I believe it is equivalent to a 36-38C, just slightly different fitting.
QUESTION:
How long would someone be out of commission for after a breast reduction surgery?
Wondering if any of you know from experience - how long does someone spend at home and/or healing after a breast reduction operation before they can safely return to work?
- ANSWER:
  I got a breast reduction on november 27th, 2008. I took 5 days off and by the 6th I was at school. I got tired super easy and felt a little light headed and nauseous though. I think it was because of the meds. I wasn't in any pain at all though.
  
  I'd say take at least 10 days off where you do nothing. a full week and 2 weekends. You can totally enjoy those 10 days. Starting the second day I was totally fine with eating, watching movies and chatting with the people I was staying with.
  
  I still can't believe how well I recovered after this procedure. I don't remember anything after walking into the operating room including most of the day afterwards.
  
  After a week I was sleeping on my side comfortably and about 3 weeks later all the incisions were completely closed and I was wearing a regular bra and had minimal scars and it was like I always had the small, perky boobs!
  I may have healed better because of my young age and good recovery system in general.
  
  But if you have a good surgeon and follow the precautions and take at least one week off, I am confident that you will have a similar positive experience.
  
  When you do go to work or whatever, avoid walking long distances because that's what made me feel sick when I tried to push myself too early.
  
  Also, make sure you don't carry anything heavy and don't feel like a burden or whatever by asking people to do everything for you! You would do the same for them. Within a month I felt completely okay picking up heavy things and had no restraints.
  
  So I guess my advice is to take it easy and don't do anything you don't feel 100% comfortable with because then you'll be paying for it and be mad at yourself for not waiting those couple of days.
  
  Enjoy the experience and awesome outcome!
QUESTION:
How long before "complete" recovery after a breast reduction?
I had a breast reduction almost 5 weeks ago and I consider myself to be a healthy person. I still have some minamal swelling (especially when walking). Also, lots of discomfort around the aerola. Still not able to sleep on my side either. And I'm still somewhat huntched over because of the discomfort. Not able to drive without some discomfort in that.
My healing seems to be a much slower in comparison to many. What was your experience like?
- ANSWER:
  it usually takes up to 8/9 weeks for it to heal completely...sounds like u need to see your doc...it is very slow
QUESTION:
Anyone have a breast reduction before kids and didn't breastfeed?
This may be a personal question, but I'm wondering if anyone out there got a breast reduction before kids and now has children. Did you choose not to or were unable to breast feed? Did your breasts sag more after having children and because of that did you wish you got the surgery done post-children?
- ANSWER:
  There are many women who have had reductions and can or cannot breastfeed.
  
  Check out http://www.bfar.org and http://www.breasthealthonline.org for people who have had reductions.
  
  It all depends on the quality of the PS and if they have done a Free Nipple Graft or not. With an FNG, you have a 50/50 chance, without a FNG, you have an excellent chance of breastfeeding.
  
  I do not have kids yet, but I also did not get an FNG, so I should still be able to breastfeed. We shall see!
QUESTION:
What to expect before and after a breast reduction?
Hi, I'm 14 years old, and I'm getting a breast reduction. Don't say I'm too young or anything. Because i have a rare disease known as virginal breast hypertrophy which makes them grow extremely fast in a matter of 6 months. 6 months ago I was wearing a 34a and now I'm a 36d. We already have the surgeon and it is going to be done we are just waiting from thhe insurance company.

These last 6 months have been complete hell for me. I have cried every single night. I don't fit into any bathing suits. I have to wear a women size large when I'm 102 pounds and 5'3 . And it's hard being 14 years old and seeing all of your friends and girls your age wearing bathing suits when you have to wear rash guards because nothing fits you. I just want to enjoy my teenage years and my confidence has gone down so much and all i want to do is just crawl in a hole. That's why I'm having the surgery.

So what should i expect? A lot of pain after? Or will I heal quicker since im 14? What should i expect bed ore? Thank you all so much and I'm very happy the surgery is being done.
What should I expect before*
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Lactation after breast reduction?
I had a breast reduction 4 yrs ago. I am 24 weeks now. My breast have gotton much bigger and they are always sensitive, but i was wondering if i am going to start leaking milk or not. Also, if i do, @ how many weeks would that happen. Has anyone else out there had a breast reduction before getting pregnant?
- ANSWER:
  I'll be honest-- I'm cutting & pasting this answer from another asker's thread a few days ago. But, she did give me a Best Answer for it, so I hope it can help you, too.
  
  Many women start to notice colostrum leaking in small amounts (a few, in large amounts!) sometime in the late 2nd/early 3rd trimester. Some women show no signs of it, but somewhere within, the changes *are* taking place that lead to full lactation after the baby's birth.
  
  Once the baby is born, the body sends out a new combination of hormones to jump-start milk production. Colostrum continues to be produced even as the milk begins to "come in". Usually, milk production is in full swing by about the 3rd to 5th day, earlier in subsequent pregnancies, and later in some cases (including previous breast reduction or surgery, preeclampsia, medicated labors, and many other reasons).
  
  Since you have had a breast reduction, you may naturally have a harder time putting faith in your body's ability to produce milk and fully nourish your baby. And you would be prudent to be watchful; I'm sure you already know that your chances of having a full milk supply may be compromised somewhat. But please try not to let your watchfulness become distrust. The body is capable of doing amazing things.
  
  It may sound corny, but I suggest you do some affirmation exercises. Look in a mirror at your breasts, and tell yourself every day that they are full of milk, so full and ready to feed your baby when s/he arrives. A positive attitude can do amazing things too!
  
  I applaud you for your decision to breastfeed. Getting as much information and education ahead of time is the best thing you can do to ensure a good start to your breastfeeding relationship when your baby arrives. Congratulations on your pregnancy, and best of luck!
QUESTION:
Has anyone lost their nipple(s) after breast reduction?
I had a breast reduction at the end of April. My right nipple has completely fallen off and my left nipple is just a tiny sliver of nipple now! I had two procedures done on my breasts before the reduction. The first being a bilateral biopsy with a right nipple exploration and the second being a bilateral nipple exploration. the second surgery was performed approx. 5 weeks before the reduction. the first two surgeries were done by the same doctor. the reduction was done by a different doctor. The plastic surgeon knew I had the nipple exploration pending and said there had to be a minimum of three weeks between the surgeries.
The last time I had a check up with him which was about a week and a half ago he said that my right nipple was completely gone and it would have to be something I would have to sacrifice due to the incisions and scarring from the other surgeries. I played it cool then although that comment was extremely uncalled for I believe.I am going to ask him at this appt. on
Thursday how much time needs to pass to give me adequate time to heal from the reduction before the nipple correction surgery can be performed and see what he says. I battled the insurance company for 7 months to get the reduction approved so if he thinks I will not fight him now he is crazy. I am also kind of concerned of letting him fix my nipples, what if he views me as a troublemaker or something and decides to take it out on me in the OR? But what if my insurance says no he has to do it or we won't pay for it.His consent form says "loss of nipple tissue might occur" it does not say total and complete loss of nipple(s) will occur. It also says that additional surgeries might be required to obtain opitmal results. But with the way he got all paranoid when I said will it come back at all, is just making me worried. Any comments/suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much!
- ANSWER:
  Check out http://www.breasthealthonline.org
  
  I didn't lose mine after my surgery, but you will find a support board there with some women who have.
QUESTION:
Is it okay to go back to school about 11-16 days after getting breast reduction surgery?
After camp (Im a counselor) I have about more then two weeks until I go back to school. In that time I was thinking about getting breast reduction surgery (instead of getting it before camp).
I mean, I of course I wont be doing Gym or anything and maybe I can get somebody to help me hold my books. This is very important and I need to know if anyone has any recommendations?
- ANSWER:
  Two weeks is usually what doctors recommend after a breast reduction. I just had mine done about three weeks ago and i can almost everything other than run, go to the gym, reach up high, lift objects over 15 lbs etc. Just take it slow. if you think you'll need more time then wait. You definitely don't want to jeopardize your results.
QUESTION:
Have you had breast reduction? What size were they before the reduction and what size were they after?
- ANSWER:
  38J to 38C Feb 2006
  
  I don't regret it one bit, and it was all covered by insurance.
QUESTION:
Weight Loss After Breast Reduction?
I'm currently scheduled for a breast reduction and I was wondering if anyone who has had this surgery lost weight from it (from the actual removal of tissue combined with the bed rest/inactivity/sleeping). If so, how much did you lose? What size was your chest before and after the proceedure? What did you weigh before/after the proceedure? Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  Breast reduction has nothing to do with weight loss.The only thing that this procedure helps is that after the surgery you feel lighter because part of weight on your chest ( that may cause back pains)goes away.You also may seem thiner because less amount of breast means that your upper body is more thin.All the posibilities to loose any weight in breast redugtion is the same as in any other surgery
QUESTION:
how long must I wait before I can go back to school after breast reduction surgery?
I'm 5'4 and weight in 125, I wear a 42DD bra and having breast reduction surgery. I currently still in and should be having surgery in May. In my school i can have more that 9 absences or I'll have to appeal for the credit that I'm getting this year. PLEASE HELP!
The reason for my surgery is that i have CONSTANT back and neck pains and my doctor see there is a problem. So he sent me to a plastic surgery saying I need breast reduction surgery. I'm 18 years old and I wear the same bra size as my 34 year old sister. I can't so any sport because of my chest size. It hurt when I run. I'm planning to do sports during college.
- ANSWER:
  I'm really sorry if I offended you... but yeah, I'd say like 3-5 weeks at least. And please post pictures next time! lol just kidding... but it wouldn't be a terrible idea lmao
QUESTION:
How long does numbness last after breast reduction surgery?
I had a breast reduction a little over 2 months ago. I have feeling in my nipples and upper breast, however, the lower and sides of my breasts are still numb or have little sensation. My doctor says this is normal and that my breasts will continue to go through changes over the next 10 months or so, and feeling should return. About how long will it take for feeling to return to these parts of my breasts? Any input from doctors or anyone that has had this surgery before is appreciated! Thank you!
- ANSWER:
  about 6 months.
QUESTION:
breast reduction after surgery. can you help me ?
i had my breast reduction surgery one week ago, i went from size h to d in 5 hours operation, the 1st 3 days i was in severe pain, even the pain killers wouldnt help a lot, it only put me a sleep but after the doctor removed my bandage and the blood draining tubes i can live with the pain now. my doctor is a very expencive qualifaid doctor and he did do a good job when i saw my boobs for the 1st time it was much better than what i expected and much better than all the before and after photos that i saw on the internet, its only been one week now! i can sleep but only on my back witch s not comfortble since am used to sleep on my sides or my stomach, any way i would like to know how long does the pain last, i dont care about the scares, only the pain, when can i move freely and easier! when can i have sex, my boyfriend doesnt mind waiting but we do have rough sex ! so when im able to go back to my normal sexual life, when can i go out clubbin or when can i drink again,, i cant brush my hair now !! i cant lift my arm and i really hate feeling this way, my boyfriend have to do every thing for me now.. bless him. im 22 years old i only had the surgery because i had bad back pain not because i looked bad or anything.. im still happier with my boobs tho they look way much better.. if u have been thro this operation would you tell me what to expect since i didnt find anything useful so far on the web, thanks
- ANSWER:
  ask your doctor
QUESTION:
How to best support a friend after breast reduction surgery?
My best friend will be going through breast reduction surgery in a few days. I want to support her as much as can during the recovery, but unsure of the best way to go about it as it's not a situation I've ever been in before. If you've gone through this type of surgery, how did your friends and family support you? Or how could they have helped you better? I am male, and I'm afraid that also may lead to at least some degree of awkwardness with my friend as well.

Thanks for any advice
- ANSWER:
  Flowers are nice, and I imagine she would enjoy them.
  
  Is there a special food your friend likes? If so, bring her some as soon as the doctor lifts any dietary restrictions there might be.
  
  Massage her hands and feet: That will help her to relax, and some studies have suggested that just plain touching seems to help the healing process.
  
  Bring her funny movies to watch, and watch them with her.
  
  Above all, if she wants to talk, Listen.
  
  Good luck, and bless you.
QUESTION:
Anyone have breast reduction surgery before having kids?
I am looking for someone who has had breast reduction surgery and then had children. Did your breast grow during the pregnancy and remain that size after? Has anyone had to have breast reduction surgery twice due to your breasts growning again after one surgery? I have been informed about the possibilities of not being able to breast feed after the surgery.
- ANSWER:
  Breast Reduction surgery has become very common now. My cousin got her breast reduction, tummy tuck and facelift surgery in India by the company called Forerunners Healthcare .The Price for the surgery she paid in India was very less. She paid 30% of the cost she was quoted in America.
  
  Forerunners Healthcare is very famous in India. They arrange cosmetic and plastic surgery for foreigners in India. I read a lot about them in the Newspapers and about their patient stories. They arrange financing for USA, Canadian, UK and other international patients who plan to have surgery abroad for low price, as the breast reduction, tummy tuck, facelift and other cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. They also have photos pasted of their International patients. You can checkout their website. There are huge cost savings. As a doctor I personally believe that surgery can be easily handled in India, as the quality of healthcare available In India is simply best in the world. The surgeons are USA/UK trained and facilities are 5 star.
  
  Many patients travel from United States of America and UK to get low cost surgery in India. Indian corporate hospitals are comparable to hospitals anywhere in the world. In fact, India has medical facilities that are comparable with the USA, UK and Canada. India offers World Class Medical Facilities, comparable with any of the western countries. India has state of the art Hospitals and the best medical experts. With the best infrastructure, the best possible Medical facilities, accompanied with the most competitive prices, you can get the treatment done in India at the lowest prices.
  
  http://www.forerunnershealthcare.com
  Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
Why is my nipple inverted after breast reduction surgery?
I had a breast reduction on one breast (due to asymmetry) 3 weeks ago. Now my nipple is inverted and won't come out. I've never had inverted nipples before. Is this typical? When will it go back to normal?
- ANSWER:
  I don't know. But if they don't, I will ask the doctor to either fix this problem or you going to sue for "not doing job they promised" and "pain and suffering".
QUESTION:
What size should I be after my breast reduction?
I'm currently a DD36/D36 (depends what store is measuring me). I plan to have a breast reduction next week. My husband and I thought I'd go down to a B36. This way if my breasts grow while pregnant (in the future) I'd go up to a C. We thought I'd regret being a C36 and then going right back up to D later in life (because breasts normally get bigger with time more than they get smaller).

Does anyone know a good site for photos of people who were D cups who went down to a B? I'm having a hard time finding a site that says the before and after breast size.

What are your thoughts? B or C? Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  http://www.breasthealthonline.org has a photo section you have to sign up for to see, that is TOTALLY worth it. You can see the good, the bad, the ugly, the LARGE, the nice and perky, etc. I highly recommend getting photo access.
  
  If you and your husband agree on a B, then go for it! A large B would be great.
  
  What does your PS suggest for a size? HE would be the best one to ask.
  
  I went from a 38J to a 38C back in Feb 2006
QUESTION:
Anyone have a breast reduction and then have children?
I just had a breast reduction done (at 24) and don't plan on having children for another 4 years. I don't plan on breast feeding. I was wondering if anyone out there had a breast reduction done BEFORE children and how there boobs held up after the changes of children? I'm wondering how long the results of a breast reduction last - especially after having children! Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  http://www.bfar.org
  http://www.breasthealthonline.org
  
  Some women's breasts get bigger, some go back to pre baby and post op size, and some deflate. It really depends on the quality of work your PS has done.
QUESTION:
Should I get a breast reduction now or after I have children?
I have wanted to get a breast reduction since I was 16 or so. I just now feel stable and ready enough to, but, now I am 23 and intend on having children before I am 30. Should I TRY to suck it up and wait until after I've gone through my pregnancies? I want it so badly but feel it would be a waste if going through pregnancy will just adverse any progress the surgery makes, what do I do?
- ANSWER:
  Well, the probability that you’ll have to do it again after you are having kids is pretty high. So financially it doesn’t make a lot of sense. And I am not talking about all things associated with a surgery. Every surgery is not a piece of cake. But again if psychologically in your mind you are having a different image of yourself and you want it so badly…, just weight all pros and contras
QUESTION:
Should I have breast reduction now or after I have children?
I have wanted to get a breast reduction since I was 16 or so. I just now feel stable and ready enough to, but, now I am 23 and intend on having children before I am 30. Should I TRY to suck it up and wait until after I've gone through my pregnancies? I want it so badly but feel it would be a waste if going through pregnancy will just adverse any progress the surgery makes, what do I do?
- ANSWER:
  I have been wanting to have a reduction as well since I was younger also. But I would wait due to all the reasons everyone else is telling you (your boob are going to get BIGGER in your pregnancy anyways). It is a concern of mine now that I am pregnant due to the fact that I was a 36F before pregnancy and had back problems to where now (3 months later) I'm scared to even go get fitted because I know I'm at least one cup size bigger... And telling you if you have back problems cause of your boobs you will have more back problems while you are pregnant. But I would still wait.
QUESTION:
Is there a way to still breast feed after having breast reduction?
I have breast fed my first child who is one years old and can already read small words. I want to have more children an nurse them as well. But I am afraid of my breast getting larger. I was a 36DD before my first pregnancy and now I am 36FF and can't bare to get any bigger. My body frame is medium build adn my breast are the first thing you see. I have back pain and hate to run because my breast get in the way. I just want to nurse my next few kids. What other alternatived are there for me?
- ANSWER:
  Actually, you should check with a plastic surgeon.
  
  I have no experience with this, but I believe that having breast reduction surgery (and at your size, that's something you'll want to do sooner, rather than later, when carrying that weight has done more permanent damage) may seriously affect your ability to breastfeed. (They move the nipple quite often, so obviously, some "pipes" will be damaged and severed.)
  
  Still, ask the surgeon who would do the work, or call and ask almost any breast surgeon. Perhaps there are ways to do the reductions that impact breastfeeding less than others. But I guarantee you that no doc will guarantee that it won't screw up nursing. Find out the odds and go from there.
  .
QUESTION:
Any way to reduce scarring after breast surgery?
Im 18 and 38FF cup and i really despise my chest [medical reasons, bad back at 18, clothes don't fit, unwanted attention, lost alot of weight so they don't look good etc] when im older and have more money i want to get a breast reduction/uplift.
I have seen before and after photos of this surgery and the scarring is pretty bad looking, is there a way to correct it after the surgery or have any treatment to reduce scarring or would i just have to wait a couple of years for it to fade?

[I am aware of the risks, i have talked to parents, bf, doctors etc about the decision to have the surgery in the first place and im not asking about that and not looking for the 'be happy with your body' comments, anyone who has any helpful info i would really really appreciate it, thanks =) ]
I live in northern Ireland and i don't have any insurance to cover it due to the free health care on the NHS i know i can get it there if i meet certain requirements but i think i have to be over a certain age which i'm not at the minute.
- ANSWER:
  Hi there!!
  I had a breast reduction surgery 3 years ago and went from a 40G to a 36C. It's the best thing I've ever done for myself! The change in activity level and self confidence is amazing. I'm a totally different person.
  
  Your insurance may pay for it if you're having back problems...I had BCBS and they did.
  
  Most of the before and after pics you see are taken pretty soon after the surgery before the scars have healed all the way which can take a year or more. I have a tendency to scar easily but my breast scars now are barely noticable. Vitamin E rub will help only if you're very consistant in applying it over the course of several months or longer. (I never had the discipline to apply it every day)
  
  Very good luck to you.
  swestbrook77@juno.com
  Contact me if you want my before and after photos.
QUESTION:
Can you still breast feed after breast reduction surgery?
I was a C cup before our three children.
Now I am a DD and I hate it.
It is impossible to find anything nice to wear. This summer trying to find a biniki that did not look pronographic was impossible.
They hurt my back. It is not comfortable at all.
My husband loves them, but I don't.
The problem is we want more kids. He wants at least one more; I want two.
If I get them reduced now will they just re-grow with the other kids?
If I don't get them done will I keep getting bigger?
What should I do?
- ANSWER:
  If you have back pain a reduction would greatly benefit you.
  
  You can also breastfeed after a reduction.
  
  http://www.breasthealthonline.org
  http://www.bfar.org
QUESTION:
How long after a breast reduction must I wear a bra day and night?
I am trying to do research into whether or not, I want to have this surgery done and before I waste my time and money to see a surgeon, I wanted to find out more info. Some people have said you have to wear a bra day and night after this surgery permanently. Some have said only for a few weeks and some have never heard of this. Please, answer only if you have heard this from a doctor or patient. Don't just guess....I really want to know.
--OH AND I AM NOT SEEING A DOCTOR YET< SO PLEASE DON"T TELL ME TO ASK MY DOCTOR.-- I need a real answer.
- ANSWER:
  I had a breast reduction in April of 2007. Went from a 36DDD to a 36D, it has been one of the best decisions I have made. I am not telling you to ask a doctor, but I think the time you have to wear a bra is up to your doctor. I had to wear a sports bra (with no underwire) for about 3 weeks day and night. The kind I had, opened in the front because in the beginning I couldn't put on a bra that opens in the back. I felt more comfortable wearing the bra at night because it gave me support. The thing that bothered me the most was it was a full month before I could sleep on my stomach. You have to sleep on your back for the first month.
  
  I would suggest going to the website below for future questions, I know it helped me. Also, call a doctors office that does breast reductions and ask if you can talk to any of their previous patients that have had the surgery. I called my doctor and they couldn't give me the patient's name or number, but they called the patient and then in return the patient called me and answered all my questions.
QUESTION:
What type of exercises and routines are allowed after having undergone a tummy tuck and male breast reduction?
What type of exercises and routines are allowed after having undergone a tummy tuck and male breast reduction?
I want to know what type of exercises and exercise routine should one adopt after undergoing a tummy tuck and male breast reduction? HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD ONE GIVE BEFORE RETURNING TO THE GYM? What type fitness routine is most advised following surgery?
- ANSWER:
  You should be asking your PS this, they are getting paid to take care of you.
QUESTION:
Breast Reduction?
How many of you did this surgery..

What was your breast size before and after ?
- ANSWER:
  Breast Reduction surgery has become very common now. My cousin got her breast reduction, tummy tuck and facelift surgery in India by the company called Forerunners Healthcare .The Price for the surgery she paid in India was very less. She paid 30% of the cost she was quoted in America.
  
  Forerunners Healthcare is very famous in India. They arrange cosmetic and plastic surgery for foreigners in India. I read a lot about them in the Newspapers and about their patient stories. They arrange financing for USA, Canadian, UK and other international patients who plan to have surgery abroad for low price, as the breast reduction, tummy tuck, facelift and other cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. They also have photos pasted of their International patients. You can checkout their website. There are huge cost savings. As a doctor I personally believe that surgery can be easily handled in India, as the quality of healthcare available In India is simply best in the world. The surgeons are USA/UK trained and facilities are 5 star.
  
  Many patients travel from United States of America and UK to get low cost surgery in India. Indian corporate hospitals are comparable to hospitals anywhere in the world. In fact, India has medical facilities that are comparable with the USA, UK and Canada. India offers World Class Medical Facilities, comparable with any of the western countries. India has state of the art Hospitals and the best medical experts. With the best infrastructure, the best possible Medical facilities, accompanied with the most competitive prices, you can get the treatment done in India at the lowest prices.
  
  http://www.forerunnershealthcare.com
  Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
How long will I need help at home after Breast Reduction Surgery?
I'm finally getting a breast reduction, yay! I've been waiting for this for years, I am a 32 HH. I'm going to hopefully go down to a C/D. So, I have a toddler and I am wondering how long will I need help from my husband and mother before I can do things on my own? I'm asking on here, because my dr told me I should be ok after one week before I should be able to do stuff on my own. I wasn't sure if that could be true. So I wanted to hear from people who went through it. Thanks so much!
- ANSWER:
  i just had breast aug. on april 17th, a friday, and i was expecting to be laid up in bed for at least 2 days but to my surprise i felt fine. dont get me wrong, you are pretty sore, but for me it wasnt to the point where i didnt want to do anything. i had it done out of town and had to stay in a hotel room over night so i could go back the next day for a checkup and i still went to the stores and went walking around and out to dinner and such. i was kinda surprised that it really wasn't that big of a deal. i was off work for 4 day, returning on wednesday and i didnt have any problems. as i said, you are very sore, picking up your toddler will be hard but i dont think you should need help for more than a few days to a week for regular stuff.
QUESTION:
How long should I wait to go to the tanning bed after a breast reduction?
I had my sugery on May 9 ( a little over 3 weeks ago) and am healing nicely. I am so glad I had the surgery done!

Before the surgery, I went to the tanning bed frequently. How long should I wait to go or can I go now? Also, will a bra and a towel be enough safe coverage of my incisions?
- ANSWER:
  You need to give it at least a YEAR!
  
  You need to wait until your scars are white before getting in there or they WILL turn permanently RED!
  
  Do not plan on putting the scars into the sun for some time. NO tanning bed this year, and even through your swimsuit the scars can be affected by the sun rays.
QUESTION:
pain after breast reduction surgery?
I'm considering breast reduction surgery but I'm a pansy when it comes to pain. Will doctors tell me to take advil or something? What kind of pain medication is usually prescribed and how long will it be before I won't have serious pain?
- ANSWER:
  I was prescribed vicodin, but I did not need it. I was in no pain after the surgery.
QUESTION:
questions about breast reduction?
1. Will losing weight after surgery cause your boobs to get smaller?
2. if your trying to gain muscle will it make the boobs bigger again?
3. Will it be easier to lose weight without large breasts?
4. Will you automatically lose weight after your surgery?
5. Will the boobs naturally grow anymore after the surgery?
6. (weird question) After you've had the surgery, can you go out and buy new bras and bikini's like, straight away, or do you have to wait a little while?
7. Is there any website where i can all information needed on breast reduction, the before procedure, after, during etc.
8. Is there any website that have success stories on their breast reduction?
9. What should the surgeon be doing to make sure it's a safe procedure?

Any other information, personal experience or success stories would be greatly appreciated.
Best answer will be given. thank you. x
- ANSWER:
  If you are considering breast reduction surgery....go make an appointment to consult with a plastic surgeon. He/She will be able to address all your questions.
  
  If you meet certain criteria, many health insurance plans will pay for breast reduction surgery. However, the health plan will require a certain amount of material be removed. The plastic surgeon will know about this as well.
QUESTION:
Breast Reduction Surgery before vacation?
I'm going to have B.R. Surgery but am wondering if I should sneak away for a week or so during the summer (without my boys 8 &10) and hope that I'm okay for the rest of the summer. It probably would only be 2-3 weeks post surgery before seeing my husband again (who's deployed). Or should I wait until after summer, have my boys there during the recovery period and have my husband not see until next year. On one hand, it may interfere with the rest of our summer plans. On the other hand, my boys would have to witness my recovery. What does everyone think?
- ANSWER:
  You should have surgery when you are not expecting to travel for at least two months. More if there are complications.
  
  So have the vacation before you get surgery.
  
  There is a link right below that will help you figure out your plans:
  
  http://www.breasthealthonline.org/cgi-bin/mwf/topic_show.pl?tid=30368
  
  Great advice in that post... and lots of information and support at that forum.
QUESTION:
Is 15 too young for breast reduction surgery?
I'm 15 years old, almost 5' 5'' tall, weigh 130 pounds and have 32FF size breasts. At age 13 I was a 32DD, but they have stopped growing, I think, by now.

Here are reasons I want the surgery:

With a small band size and a huge cup size, finding bras can be incredibly difficult and extremely expensive (0 for a bra that fits, I get fitted at Nordstrom).

I have light to terrible back pain, it varies on the activities I'm doing.

It is affecting my quality of life, as although I have a supportive sports bra, exercise is uncomfortable.

I am so self conscious about them that I am depressed at times. I won't wear a swim suit or shirt without a jacket (unless it's a loose t-shirt work out shirt) in front of anyone because I'm so embarrassed. Please don't tell me to "embrace what I've got, tons of women would kill for bigger boobs". I would give anything to be smaller.

Also, would weight loss help? If so, how much should I lose?

Does anyone know the average size of before and after breasts for reduction?

Sorry for all the questions! I have no one I can really talk to about this as my friends and family don't understand the extent of my unhappiness. Any advice would be extremely appreciated, especially if you have had the surgery or know someone who has.

Thank you so much!
- ANSWER:
  I know it seems stupid but no doctor will really want to operate on you at your age even though you have back pain for the simple factor of your body is still developing and filling out so they could grow a bit more yet.
  I would talk to your doctor and ask what they would recommend, its a jumping off spot.
QUESTION:
Post breast-reduction surgery, how will pregnancy affect breasts?
I am trying to conceive after having had a breast reduction including a FNG (Free Nipple Graft) two years ago. I am curious as to what effect pregnancy will have on my breasts since the milk will have nowhere to go. Will the milk produced just be naturally absorbed, or will I need to take medicine to dry it up internally? And will it hurt more than normal pregnancy and post-pregnancy breasts? I have already had one child and breastfed, but that was before the reduction.
- ANSWER:
  working for plastic surgeons for the past 13 years i was always informed by the doctor it may or may not affect the milkducts. You will have some enlargemnt due to pregnancy and may get milk which may alter the shape of the breasts again.It is hard to tell what the breasts will do until you are in your latter stages of pregnancy so you can only wait and see, also i was told they do not give drugs to dry up the milk any longer and if you choose not to nurse you should bind your self with an acewrap until it dries up on its own
QUESTION:
After you had a breast reduction...?
After you a breast reduction how do you feel! And did you have before you were pregnant or after?
- ANSWER:
  I had one before I had my kids. The recovery was fine, I felt great emotionally and physically. The procedure has changed a lot in the last 10 years, so it's entirely possible to preserve the tissue for breastfeeding later in life, however, since your breasts grow during pregnancy, they could come back.
QUESTION:
Growth after breast reduction?
In July of this year my friend had a breast reduction surgery. Went from 34DDD to a 34 C. Now the breast has regrown to a full 34DDD. She has lost more weight since her surgery instead of putting weight on. She is a size 6 so there is no weight issue causing her breast to regrow. She is also 46 years old so the breast would have been fully grown as well as a hysterectomy so there is no chance of pregnancy. Has any one heard of this happening before and what caused it and how was it corrected? She is going back to the Dr. tomorrow to be rechecked but curiosity has me here on answers tonight. Any info would be help full.
Dr. said that it was the scare tissue and the density of her tissue along with swelling causing the growth in size that will go away and shrink down to a smaller size. In her case aprox. a large C or D cup. Has nothing to do with weight gain. Especially since she has lost more weight than what she weighed at the time of her surgery. Her Dr. says this happens in about 2% of the women that gets this surgery and she happenes to be in that 2% Dr. also said that it could take 9-12 months for a complete healing and by then should be a smaller size like she was hoping for.
- ANSWER:
  if shes 46 years old, i hate to break it to you but her breast stopped growin in her mid 20's. so theres no way her breast grew this past year after her surgery. the only possible solution is weight gain. breast are the first place women gain it.
QUESTION:
Breast reduction? How long before I can conduct my regular actrvities?
Tell me about your experience with yours. Mine was 6 days ago and I've been doing everything since 3 days after. I'm limiting lifting. When will the soreness go away? I was a 40-DD.....now I'm a 38-C. I get my stitches taken out tomorrow.
- ANSWER:
  IT TOOK ME ABOUT 8 DAYS! THE PAIN WHEN YOU MOVE LEFT TO RIGHT KILLED ME!
QUESTION:
What would be better, a breast reduction or breast lift?
Happy new year everyone.

I am definitely making big changes this year, one of the biggest being my decision to have something done with my breasts. I am done with these big boobies. Done. Done. Done. I've been wanting a breast reduction for the longest time now, but I'm still in the early process. I go back for another appointment on Tuesday, to look over my spine x-rays and take the next step. My doctor agreed to refer me to a plastic surgeon, but she wanted me to get x-rays, so we could rule out any other issues that could be causing my back pain. (Which is obviously due to the heaviness of my breasts).

But, my sister's best friend recently put another thought into my mind- a breast lift. I'm 18 years old, and my friend doesn't think I should get a reduction, but a breast lift instead. She thinks that I am too young for a breast reduction, and fears for me that I won't be able to breast feed when I have children someday...(because I do want children, and I do want to breastfeed... even though I wouldn't mind if I end up not ever breastfeeding) She says that with a lift, I could get the perkiness that I want without having to cut away at my boobs too much, I guess. I really don't know. I've seen tons of photos of breast reduction and lifts before and after- and I honestly couldn't tell the difference with half of them.

Which would you recommend? Right now I am a 40 DD according to when I got measured a few months ago. My weight also flucuates and I am sure that I'll lose more weight soon. Maybe too much that I won't even qualify for a breast reduction? I'm currently 175 lbs.

As I said before, my appointment is Tuesday, so any advice would be great.

Thank you!
@Jets- Right, but even if I do get a lift, won't they sag if I end up breast feeding? That would just defeat the whole purpose.
- ANSWER:
  A reduction. You can actually get a lift done at the same time. You can ask your surgeon if you think you need one. Definitely lose the weight you want to before the surgery. Boobs can get smaller with weight loss. Also, you dont want to get a reduction, then lose the weight and have them get too small or saggy! You may not be able to breastfeed after the surgery. However, girls with big boobs usually can't breast feed anyway because the baby suffocates in all that extra boob. I had a reduction from a 28G to a D. I feel much much better, especially my back, but even my shoulders and neck because my posture has improved.
QUESTION:
Is it bad to get a breast reduction/ lift now if I want to have children in a few years?
I'm only in college but I have suffered from back pain for many years already. But would it be pointless to have the surgury before kids? I mean your breasts get bigger and then can sag after breast feeding so, wouldn't it just make the surgury pointless?
- ANSWER:
  It definitely won't be pointless, especially considering your back pain issues.
  
  I had a reduction done last year and am still planning on having kids. I have no more back pain due to my breasts so it is definitely not pointless.
  
  Here are a few sites to check out:
  
  http://www.breasthealthonline.com (this site helped me out so much, I don't know what I'd do if I didn't have that one before and after my surgery).
  
  http://www.bfar.org (this site talks about breastfeeding after reduction).
QUESTION:
should I do breast reduction surgery?
I am 5'8'' and weigh 140 pounds, so I am not overweight or skinny, just healthy looking. I am happy with the way I look, except that I am very self conscious of the double D cups I wear... It feels like my chest is always in my way, it's harder to do sports because they bounce everywhere... and the clothes that are made for my size just can not fit my breasts in them. especially swimwear! I'm so jealous of all the girls who can wear these cute bikinis that are held together with these flirty strings and I have to wear extra supportive bra-like swimsuit with thick straps that make dents in my shoulders. and forget about ever wearing anything that is supposed to be worn with no bra...
I know that other girls would like to have the size that I am wearing, plus I suppose my breasts still look healthy and nature makes everyone beautiful in their own way and everything...but sometimes I really feel like reducing the size to a C would make me so much less self conscious and so much more happy. I am considering a breast reduction surgery after I have kids (because I wouldn't want to risk the ability to breastfeed), but the before and after pictures on internet don't look good at all.. is it because those are more severe cases or is that how they generally look after reduction?
do any of you have the same feelings and maybe some have any advice on how to pick well fitting bras for all occasions (strapless dress, everyday wear, sporting needs).
thanks for reading the whole thing!
- ANSWER:
  I suggest that you consider whether this is a health related issue or if you are considering to alter your body simply to follow some fashion trend.
QUESTION:
I just got a breast reduction and I was wondering if or when I get pregnant my nipple size will change?
I know that I have a great chance of breast feeding... I just know that sometimes womens areolas tend to get darker and grow. I was just wondering if after a reduction your areola reacts the same it did before the surgery.
- ANSWER:
  it will. I dont have them but my pals told me
QUESTION:
breast reduction?
not sure how much it costs but wondering if any woman has had it before? i'm talking about a major reduction. i want to go from a C to an A. i don't care about being flat chested. just wanted to know if any woman has gotten breast reduction and how are you doing after?
- ANSWER:
  why do you need to have smaller breasts? bigger breasts are better my gf has B breasts and they are massive so i believe bigger the better
QUESTION:
I'm moving forward with getting a breast reduction. Can anyone tell me what to expect?
After years of back and neck pain I am finally moving forward with getting a breast reduction. I am (hopefully) going to go from a G cup to a C cup.

Can anyone give me an idea of what to expect before, during, and after the surgery? How much it hurts? Costs? Satisfaction with life after the surgery?
- ANSWER:
  I went from a J cup to a C cup and my only regret is not getting it done sooner.
  
  You should see at least three PS's before choosing the one you want to go with. Make sure they are covered under your insurance plan or you will pay more out of pocket.
  
  You will be off two weeks for recovery and on light duty for about a month before you can resume normal activities.
  
  I personally did not have any pain, and my back pain was gone the minute I opened my eyes in the recovery room. Other women have had pain though so use painkillers if you are one of those types.
  
  This site helped me out SO MUCH so please browse the breast reduction FAQ's and forums:
  
  http://www.breasthealthonline.com
  
  Mine was ,000 and covered by insurance 100% (they can cover between 50-100% of the total cost). I now have perky happy newbies and when I look back at my pre op pictures I get nauseated with how they look.
  
  OH, take before your surgery pictures so you have them to compare for after surgery. You may think "man, I'm still big" but in reality you are not. I took weekly pictures of my breasts after surgery and you can definitely tell they are not the same size as they used to be.
  
  You will not regret this surgery, it will ease your back pain so much! Give me a shout if you need to.
QUESTION:
How long will I need help after a breast reduction surgery?
I'm finally getting a breast reduction, yay! I've been waiting for this for years, I am a 32 HH. I'm going to hopefully go down to a C/D. So, I have a toddler and I am wondering how long will I need help from my husband and mother before I can do things on my own? Thanks!
That's why i'm asking on here, because my dr told me I should be ok after one week. I wasn't sure if that could be true. So I wanted to hear from people who went through it.
- ANSWER:
  my mom hand it done, it will deffinitly be hard to take care of a todler for a while. i would say about 3 weeks before you can start walking normally, but it is deffinitly worth it, my mom loves her boobs now. when you go to the surgent he / she will give you all the details.
  -good luck, and congrats!
QUESTION:
why is a patient told to use 0.9% saline solution after a breast reduction?
My mom had a breast reduction on 10-18.
She had a spot under one that didn't look right so she went to see her surgeon. The doc says it is healing but from inside out. She wrote a prescription for a saline wash to be applied and left on the wound.Mom is to change this 3 or4 times a day but leave it on there? How is this helping? Now it just looks red and raw where as before it had a whitish color. We just dont get how keeping it wet even with saline is helping it heal but the doc put like 5 refills on a liter bottle of this saline wash. Just doesn't make since. Can anyone explain?
- ANSWER:
  It helps the spot to heal.
  
  Trust me it works, I had an open spot on my right breast, and I used a solution and it helped heal it.
  
  Give it time, it'll heal.
  
  If you have ANY concerns or questions, like how a saline solution helps it, please talk to the PS, they are there to help you (her).
QUESTION:
Second Time Pregnancy and Post Breast Reduction?
Hi,
Yesterday my husband and I had a discussion about expanding our family. He feel that we should start trying for another baby (our little one will be three next month). I love the idea, but I am nervous. I know this may seem selfish but, I am scared about weight gain. With my first son, i breastfed for 11 months so I know that had a lot to do with weight loss. I just had a breast reduction about 8 months ago, and I do not know if i will be able to nurse or not. If anyone had a breast reduction before a pregnancy how did your breast react. Another thing is, I do not want my breast to get bigger again, I really dont. I was a 32DD pre reduction. Now I am a 32 large B small C...Does the pregnancy cause the breast to get larger? I am a pretty petite person. I am 5'0 and weigh 110 lbs. I am very active. Run daily, but maybe my family is just talking mess, but the women on my mom side will say things like, after your second baby, it is going to be hard to lose your weight again. I dont know what that is about, but it scares me. I am 23...i dont know, just worried...thanks
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Breast Reduction question?
After having my daughter and being a perfect size C before pregnancy. I am now barely feeting into a DD. I know for 100% that i want and i will get a breast reduction. i have been to several consults with a plastic surgeon. i have about 40 pounds i really wanted to lose and get back to my pre baby weight before i get a breast reduction. i have tried so hard to lose the weight. it is impossible though because i keep losing and gaining back the same weight. my back hurts on a daily basis because of my heavy boobs. and i have to stop excercising when my back acts up. so it is like an on going losing, gaining back, losing weight for the last 2 years. Should i go ahead and get the surgery done and i will lose the weight after it. or do i need to lose the weight before. will my breast change after having the surgery done if i try to lose weight after it?
My husband is all for it. thank you! just because they r big it doesnt mean they are beautiful. it is really a health issue at this point. i have been doing weight watchers. and i exercise regulary as long as my back lets me. anyone with any experience in this?
- ANSWER:
  lots of luck
QUESTION:
I'm wanting to call to set up a consultation to get breast reduction, but have a few questions before I do...?
I'm not wanting to have the consultation until I get back home from school in December...should I go ahead and call right now, even though its November (tomorrow...)? Is that too early? And how soon after the consultation do they usually set up the surgery?
- ANSWER:
  you may want to call sooner so you can get an appointment that fits in your schedule. some doctors might have a 3 month wait period before the next available apppointment. at that appointment i scheduled my surgery date. my insurance had approved me right on the spot, but even if you have to wait for a letter, you would still schedule it. but if you are denied, they just cancel the surgery date. when i scheduled my surgery, i picked the date that worked best with my schedule. i was approved over the summer but i didn't want the surgery in the summer so i schedule when it was good for me. a girl i know had her consultation appointment, was approved and since there was an opening, had the surgery the next week. so it all depends when YOU want it.
  
  good luck!
QUESTION:
Breast Reduction? Should I lose weight first?
I am in the process of losing weight. I plan to lose a lot of weight and I really want a breast reduction because i am a 42 DDD and would like to be somewhere around a C or B. and they are giving me major back problems. But I don't know if I get the reduction before i reach my weight loss goal if it will look weird. Or I should just lose the weight then get the reduction so it can look natural or something. Has anyone had experience with this. Also how long does it take for you to heal after a reduction? Or atleast how long until you can do regular activity without having to worry about messing everything up? Because i do not hav very much time because I am a college student and have summer internships to do.
Thanks
- ANSWER:
  and 42 band usually means you are above average weight. SO lose the weight first. Your weight is probably more of an issue on your back than your breasts, because breasts rarely cause back problems directly. Lack of exercise, the wrong bra size, and bad posture could be causing the back problems.
  
  avoid surgery at all costs. lose the weight first, and work out your back muscles, and then see what happens. if your back is still hurting, then you can check your options.
  
  Also, who knows, you might lose the weight after getting a reduction, and lose more breast than you would prefer.
QUESTION:
Answer if you have gotten breast reduction?
I am getting my 32E's reduced to 32B's and I am nervous. If you have can you tell me how it was your before and after sizes.
- ANSWER:
  i had a breast reduction in oct 08. 32DDD/E to 32C. best experience. contact me if you have specific questions, i'd be happy to share.
QUESTION:
I'm going to be getting a breast reduction soon can someone tell me about the surgery, and pain afterwards?
I am a 38F and my back and shoulders are really giving me trouble so I am going to have to come out of pocket and pay for my breast reduction. I just want to know how is the surgery before, and after. Also i have dark marks from my bra because I'm african american. Is there a cream that will help me get rid of those? Thanks
- ANSWER:
  the pain was a little tough but with pain killers it was manageable. the worst part was the drive home from the hospital. i was picked up in a minivan and reclined in the middle row so i wouldn't have to wear a seat belt. every bump and turn hurt. once i was home, it was ok, but as i said pain killers helped a lot. after a week, when my bandage came off, everything was good. i couldn't lay on my stomach for a long time, maybe 8 months.
  but i was able to resume normal activities at the gym after 3 months, though it took some time to build back up to where i was. so the recovery was quick.
  i suggest putting paper tape over the scar lines, if your doctor doesn't. i did this and it kept my scar lines flat and thin. now you can't even tell i had the surgery.
  
  good luck!