Flourish Health Real Life:
Looking at different health and medical topics relevant to women using readers’ own experiences and stories. 

Breast Reduction Surgery

The size of a woman’s breasts is determined partly by genetics, her weight and hormonal factors.  For some women with large breasts, they can be a source of physical and psychological discomfort. An option is to have a breast reduction operation where excess fat and skin are removed from the breasts which are then reshaped into smaller breasts and the nipples repositioned.

Jody* had always had large breasts (DD - E cup) ever since her teenage years and in 2004, at the age of 38, decided to undergo breast reduction surgery.

Here is her story…

Why did you want to change your breast size?

Whilst I became clever at disguising the size of my breasts, they caused me a lot of discomfort.  I developed chronic pain in my mid-back that became worse as I grew older.  I had grooves in my shoulders from carrying the extra weight and had frequent tension headaches, as it was difficult to maintain a healthy posture.  Regular visits to physiotherapists and masseurs provided only temporary relief.

Exercising and even sleeping were uncomfortable.

What made you decide to have the operation?  Was it a fairly quick decision or did it take a long time, and if so, how long?

I saw a plastic surgeon when I was about 20 years old to discuss a breast reduction but it was not until 18 years later that I finally went through with the operation!  I think part of me wanted to wait until I had children and I also figured that the quality of the surgery could only improve over the years.  The other advantage of waiting was that I had established support networksaround me and also the confidence that only comes with maturity to carry it off.

A girlfriend was a theatre nurse and she recommended a plastic surgeon that she described as being conservative and having meticulous attention to detail. Her firsthand insight gave me the confidence I needed.  I made an appointment to meet him and a couple of weeks later booked a date for the operation.

What were your thoughts and feelings in the lead up to the operation?

Relief that I had finally made the decision and empowered that I was doing something so incredibly pro-active about my wellbeing!

Naturally a bit of apprehension about the operation that would involve major surgery (approximately three to four hours then four to five days recovery in hospital)

Excitement/anticipation – A few days before my operation, I spoke to a friend of a friend who had had a breast reduction.  She was extremely positive and after that I actually felt excited about what I was about to do.  We only spoke over the phone but she could really empathise with my situation and this was very reassuring.

I also enjoyed support and encouragement from my husband, friends and family.

What are your thoughts and feelings now that you have had the operation?

I am thrilled with the results and have become a keen advocate for the operation as it has certainly changed my life.  When I see women with large uncomfortable looking breasts I feel like pulling them aside and sharing my very positive experience with them!

Four years since the operation the chronic back pain has gone, any scarring is barely noticeable and my breasts are firm and lifted!  I’m enjoying being able to experiment with all sorts of clothes and buying bathers and bras off the rack!

What is your advice or message to Flourishing women about breast surgery?

If you have large breasts that are giving you discomfort then consider talking to your GP about it and see where the conversation takes you.

* Name has been changed.

Flourishnote: Have you had a breast reduction operation, or thinking about it?  We'd love to hear your thoughts. 

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