If you find that you are experiencing shoulder, back and even lower back pain from the extra pounds you are carrying in your bra, it might be time to consider breast reduction surgery. This pain-relieving surgery can often be done on an outpatient basis at a surgery center or local hospital. The first step to deciding on a breast reduction surgery is taking a look at the source of your pain and the options available for resolving it.
Identify the Source of the Pain
Breast reductions usually are performed if six or more pounds will be removed. You can determine the weight of your breasts by the cup size. If you are DD cup or higher, you qualify. Your shoulders are usually the first signs of the extra pounds being carried. Sway back shoulders with dips in them are signs your back is carrying too much of a load. Tension in your shoulders, back and lower back can also be a sign of the extra weight you are carrying.
Is Surgery for Me?
If you are frequently taking pain relieving medications for your back and shoulder pain, you should consider breast reduction surgery. The removal of the weight will not only relieve the pain, but it will also improve your posture. Taking pain relievers is not a solution but a temporary tactic that can potentially bring more harm to your body, as certain medications can damage your organs if large quantities are consumed. Even over-the-counter medicines are designed for occasional pain relief.
When looking for a surgeon, go to your yellow pages or online and look for board-certified doctors in your area. This surgery will require you to be unconscious for up to six hours and requires plenty of rest and care after the surgery. Interview a couple of doctors before you decide. Ask how many surgeries they have performed before, what size cup they would recommend for you, how long the surgery and healing process and what the costs are.
Breast reduction surgery can be a medical necessity with a diagnosis of back pain. Your insurance will cover this surgery but check with them before choosing a doctor.
What Can I Expect After the Surgery?
Expect a six-week healing process. Your doctor may recommend going down to a C cup, which will seem awfully small but will provide amazing relief for you in the future.
Make sure you get all prescriptions filled before the surgery so they are there by the bedside when you need them.
Get help at home with the basics like dressing, eating and bathing.
Make sure you have the necessary wound-cleaning supplies and gauze to help your incisions heal quickly.
Buy sports bras to sleep in; this will help your breasts from moving around and tearing stitches.
And just because you feel good does not mean you should move around. If you are on medication for pain, be very careful not to reach or stretch and tear stitches.
Don't plan on driving for the first two weeks.
Relearning Stand and Walk
Your lighter body will take some getting used to--in a good way. Avoid wearing high heel shoes until you are comfortable with the small adjustments you will make. Take the time to incorporate a walking regime that will tone up your overall body without undue strain.
And then you get to go shopping for clothes designed for the rest of your body. Enjoy!
What Will They Look Like?
Your breasts will be smaller and perky. It will take several weeks before the puffiness from surgery is gone and your breasts settle into their natural shape. Your nipples may or may not be as sensitive as they were before surgery, but wait until they are fully healed before determining your sensitivity.
Will There Be Scars?
This depends on your skin type. If you are prone to keloids, then expect scars. However, you can reduce them quickly with scar-removing gel and adhesives that are now available over the counter. Vitamin E can also help reduce scars, but use after the wound has healed.
Tags: reduction surgery, will take, back pain, before surgery, breast reduction, breast reduction surgery, consider breast