breast reduction

[Boz]

Hi everyone,

I've just got back after being referred to a surgeon regarding getting a bilateral breast reduction on the NHS. I was expecting to really have to plead my case, but after going through some of the side effects, a little measuring and physical examination etc, they got me to sign a consent form and sent me off to a medical photographer to have pictures of my breasts taken. I was told I would be contacted about an appointment. My reason for getting them done was mainly on medical grounds (I have constant, hellish backpain which I see a chiropractor for, which helps, but doesn't fix). But there were also other factors (staring, comments, getting clothing, and the fact it makes me look like a big heffalump). I'm a bit confused now. Aren't I supposed to have to talk to a pschiatrist, or doesn't that always happen? Seeing as I've signed the consent form I presumed they were saying yes, but now I've been reading up more on the selection proceedure I'm worried I'm going to get knocked back at a later point, and I was so made up about finally having it done.
What is your experience of this, is there always a psychological assesment? Or is it just in some cases? I'm a 32H, just about 5 ft, if that helps at all...
Feeling a bit worried now - I really don't want to be told I can't have it.

[vicks7005]

Hi I didnt have a phyc evaluation so dont worry too much, i think its just to make sure 100% you know what you are doing. good luck with the op mines next month

[withey66]

Hi just found this sight, lots of good info.
I am 41 yrs old 5ft 2" and a size 16/18 top and size 12 bottom and a size 36G, my doctor referred me back last year and the PCT have agreed funding. I have an appointment with the consultant on 17th April.
Can the consultant still turn me down? or does this mean that I will get my breast reduction?

I haven't yet told my husband that this is happening, as he won't like it. We have been married for 23 years, but won't be for too much longer. He will think that i'm doing it for other reasons, it is purely that I have constant neck and back ache.

I will wait until I have had my consultation and know more before I break the news to him.

[withey66]

Hi just found this sight, lots of good info.
I am 41 yrs old 5ft 2" and a size 16/18 top and size 12 bottom and a size 36G, my doctor referred me back last year and the PCT have agreed funding. I have an appointment with the consultant on 17th April.
Can the consultant still turn me down? or does this mean that I will get my breast reduction?

I haven't yet told my husband that this is happening, as he won't like it. We have been married for 23 years, but won't be for too much longer. He will think that i'm doing it for other reasons, it is purely that I have constant neck and back ache.

I will wait until I have had my consultation and know more before I break the news to him.

[claire g]

[quote="Doctor Louis Hurst"]Girls,
i am a registered NHS doctor who specialises in this. Email me from this website.

Louis[/quote]

Hi,

After much thought, and bad back ache to say the least, I have talked with my Mum and have decided to make an appointement with my Doctor to discuss a breast reduction. I have recently lost around 15lbs however the weight has not come off my chest. I am at the moment a 38 E/F and suffer from sharp pains and aches in by back and below the shoulder blade. I work in an office too so I am at a desk all day which means the pains are constant. I also suffer from the pains whilst driving. The shape of my breasts is also another thing that upsets me as I am only 26 nearly 26 and they look like a mush older womans who has had children, by this I mean shapeless and sagging. Would it be in my interests to contact my GP to see if I can be helped?

Many Thanks for any reply.

[sarahdrums]

Hi, just wondering if anyone has had a breast reduction at a young age. I'm 18 and have size 34 H boobs, what size and age do you think the NHS would accept me for a breast reduction. Cheers. will be great to hear from you all. x

[Alybaly]

Hey there,
Its been exactly 8 days since I had my BR surgery and its been a total emotional rollercoaster. I'm 27 and 5ft and the majority of me was small apart from my breasts. Being a 32F was a constant burden and brought the wrong kind of attention. It didnt help that when I took off my bra my boobs hit my knees!!! He He.
Anyway I found this forum and have been encouraged by the amount of you going through the same experiences.

My surgery went well and I was out of hospital 2 days later, excited and down to a 32C. My doc dresses my breasts before I left and I wasnt allowed to remove the dressings until my next appointment with him. That was last night.

I got a shock seeing all the scars and bruising for the first time. Also he pocked about a bit and said I had some kind of blister and prescribed me antibiotics. Now Im really worried as I keep reading horror stories about blisters and infections.

Please could anyone with a similiar experience give me any advice.
thanks tons :lol:

[emma1]

hi everyone just found out about this site. i'm 20 and my breast size is 34f , i hate the attention i get from guys they always talk to my chest instead of my face. most girls say they wish they had my boobs. i want them gone its not only the attention that's the problem its the back ache,the sweating, not being able to find bras in the high street stores and not forgetting that when i take my bra off my boobs touch my stomach. i am on the waiting list for a reduction i would like to be a c cup,im not bothered about the scaring anything's better than these things.

[Alybaly]

Hey Emma,
I felt exactly the same as you and considered it for years before I decided it was for me. As I said above I only had it 8 days ago and even though Im sore, I still cant stop looking at my smaller boobs

It has already shown a difference with my back ache and neck pain. Also, I was so amazed when my bra straps slipped off my shoulders he he!!
Thats never happened before coz they were usually pulled down by the weight of my boobs. Oh the simple things that are making such a big difference.

Anyway my advice would be to collect as much info as possible then if your still sure then go for it. I just wish I had done it years ago

Good Luck

[emma1]

hey alybaly

I will find out as much info as i can but I've decided to definitely have them done. Some people think i should wait a couple more years but why should i when they are causing me so many problems. when they are done i am going to buy as many bras as i can because at the moment i can't.

[kit kat]

hi all.
I have been reading all the posts on this thread and Im so amazed at the stories that people have to tell about breast reduction. I am so pleased for the women who have been able to achieve the reduction they want. I am also shocked and appalled at how some women have been treated when visiting GPs, nurses etc. I am also someone who is very unhappy with their breasts. I have always had large breasts, although I do realise that they could be bigger and I could be suffering even more so than I am now. I constantly suffer form back pain and find sport such a hassle. Sports bras seem to have little effect on keeping my breasts under control which leads to me feeling a) very embarassed as men seem to think its ok to stare whilst Im trying to exercise and b) in such a lot of pain due to the "bounce". I hate bra shopping as it is such a struggle to find bras that fit and "do their job" so to speak. I usually fit a 34 E but bras this size are usually on the snug side. I think I would fit into a 34 F better but I am already so depressed that I have to buy an E cup that I can't face buying anything bigger. Clothes shopping is also a nightmare as tops never fit my waist if they are big enough to fit my bust. I am 18 years old and want to have breasts that don't control my life. I know this might seem a reasonably young age but I want to go ahead with breast reduction surgery. I weigh roughly 10st and measure 5ft 4". I wear size 8 bottoms and usually 14 to 16 top. I havent visitied my doc yet, and after readnig these bulletins I have mixed feelings about making an appoitment now. I know nothin will happen without me doing so but I am wondering if anyone can help me. Does anyone know roughly the guidelines that the NHS follows for judging who is suitable for surgery? I understand also mental status of patients is also a factor in whether you are accepted for the operation.
Thank you for taking time to read this. Any information would be a great help
Kat

[Jessicat]

Hey everyone,

I'm 19, and a 36 F, however i'm "popping out" of my current bra, and I would be devastated at having to get the next size! I'm very unhappy with my breasts as they seem to take over my life. People are always staring and on first meeting me they usually say "OMG how big are your boobs!" As a result I always wear hoodies so they aren't noticeable. I don't like going out with my friends on a night out because I look so out of proportion to everyone else. My friends get to talk to nice guys whilst I get the sleezy men trying to grope me, but whenever I say anything to my friends they just say "I would love to have your boobs stop complaining" and I feel like I ruin their nights because i'm so down. My parents told me to lose weight and my chest size would decrease, but i'm only a 10/12 now and so i would still be out of proportion. If I try to exercise my breasts pull and hurt, and people stare at me so I become really self concious and hate going to the gym! I fidget all the time because my back hurts and its awkward to walk in heels. Clothes are such a problem and I often cry in changing rooms because I hate looking at myself! I once got stuck in a top and they had to rip it off me. Needless to say I paid for the top, left the shop and never went shopping for a few months after that. I really want a breast reduction as they severely affect my self esteem, however I don't know where to start in concern to consultations etc. I can't afford to pay for it, but I read that the NHS often refuse treatment. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Jess

[Loot]

Jessicat, go and see your GP. Maybe take a printout of exactly what you've said above if you feel you may be too embarrassed or shy to get your point across.

[dancer_zk]

What do you think my chances are of getting a breast reduction on the NHS?

I'm currently 17, nearly 18 but prepared to wait however long it takes. I'm a 32E/F which although doesn't sound TOO horrendous is really quite out of proportion- I'm a size 8 waist but have to buy size 12 to fit over my boobs.

I don't get back ache currently, more general boob-ache.. if that makes sense. My main problems come because I'm a dancer. 90% of dancers are completely flat-chested and very few are anywhere near my kinda size. Most go braless under leotards whereas I have to wear both a bra and a sports bra, and still get embarassing breast bounce. It also puts a lot of strain on my shoulders and perhaps has had some input into the back injuries I've had; although these may just be from dancing. Finding clothes is bad enough, but being told to wear skimpy costumes is an absolute nightmare. I have a show in a month or so that involves a very energetic dance (lots of jumps etc) whilst wearing a halterneck top; I'm not allowed to show straps. Currently panicking, not quite sure how I'm gonna manage it! I'm going to dance college next year, and I'm really worried that my breast size is going to be a barrier to getting jobs. Nobody has mentioned it specifically (teachers I mean) but when applying for dance jobs equality doesn't really come into it.

I also hate the comments I get off people, I feel self-conscious most of the time. I end up hating all the clothes I own cos I think my boobs look massive- people don't see ME or the rest of my body when my boobs are so obvious.

Sorry for the excessive length! I was just wondering if any of those factors might be taken into account...

[Gemini81]

Hi all,

I cant believe i just found this site randomly ....and ive finally found people the same as me. It is so reassuring and i am so happy.
Im 26 and 36FF ( not that i tell everyone that haha) and ive been pretty big since my teenage years ..i think i was a 32 d at about 16 and have just kept growing and growing. In all honesty im probably bigger than a ff but i just cant put myself through the whole going up a cup size or more officially. I just dont think i could handle it.
My weight has yo-yo'd over the years but my boobs never seem to reduce and it kills me. I can never find clothes that fit and its rare that ,if i do see something i like , im ever really comfortable with the outfit and how i look it it because of my chest.
My boobs sag and hang down like an older ladies might and i dont think my nipples have pointed directly out as opposed to down since i was 16
My back has really started to ache over the past few years which is really starting to bother me....and my sex life is non existant........mainly because i am so self concious over revealling my body...due to my boobs and the way i look that its getting me down. Im always suspicious of guys because the first thought is 'are they just talking to me because of my boobs......that is if they are talking to me and not my boobs
Ive always though about getting a reduction but never investgated it party through fear partly through hope that they would shrink over night
Finding this site has really spurred me on to investigate the reduction option further...starting with checking my bmi and getting it within the peramiters if i need to.!!!!!!
Good luck to everybody going through the application and ops etc and im always here for a chat if anyone is feeling down......i wish id had someone out there who understood over the years...it would have really helped being able to laugh or cry about it....anyways im off to investigate

Hopefully speak to some of you soon
x

[juliepie22]

Hello,

I went to the GP this morning after alot of thinking and researching about having a breast reduction. I am a 40HH.

I have bad back ache and find walking great distances a struggle. But stupid things like standing and doing the ironing is a painful thought (and thats not just the ironing!!).

When I arrived at the GP I had to wait over an hour (despite my appointment was the 2nd of the day!!!) and I hate the doctors as it is so the wait only made me feel worse.

I was then told off by my GP for having more than one thing to talk to her about (i.e. needed repeat perscription for contraception). Was told I should make an appointment for each thing I need to talk about!!!!!!!!!

So I was nearly put off telling her about wanting a breast reduction, but I thought I would never come back if I didnt say it now.

When I said I wanted to find out about the possibility of having a breast reduction she laughed and her response - "you haven't a cats in hell chance of getting one!!!!". I was a little shocked by her response but imediately questioned why. Thinking it might be due to the fact I am over weight - which I knew would be a factor.

Her reply was "the NHS wont give you one unless you are suffering from a mental breakdown or have been complaining and are recieving treatment for any major injuries or illnesses due to having large breasts!".

She said I would need to complain and recieve treatment at my expense for the bad back, difficulty breathing on a night etc etc for 3 or 4 years before they might consider. And if they do then another long wait before surgery. But only a 10% chance of being considered, even if I were to suffer a mental breakdown!!!

I am now appaled and may look to go private. Has anyone else recieved this response about getting a breast reduction?

[happy]

Your doctor sounds dreadful!
I approached my GP about a breast reduction about 8 weeks ago and she has been very supportive. I am a 34JJ - size 20 top and 14 bottom and have suffered from back and neck pain for many years. I also have the other issues connected with large breasts such as heat/fungal rashes under them, unable to exercise properly and generally hate them!
The doctor referred me to the local hospital and the surgeon agreed that I was a good candidate for the op but explained this has to be agreed by the PCT.
My doctor wrote to the PCT requesting funding and sent the surgeons letter along with reports from a physio and my chiropractor. We have had a reply this week and they have said I meet most of the criteria and the doctor just needs to confirm my BMI and how long I have maintained my weight loss - fingers crossed I will get it done this summer?!

In the letter from the PCT to my doctor they said they are following the guidelines from the Modernisation Agency's Action on Plastic Surgery:

The patient is suffering from neck/back ache and or intertrigo (the fungal rash)
The patient is already wearing a proffesionnally fitted bra
The patient has a BM1 of less than 30
Stable weight loss for 2 years

I would urge you to go back to your doctor (or see another one) before you go down the private route.

[chris6111]

[b][size=18][color=darkred]Hi. i have just been approved for this op on the NHS.
Was quite shocked how easy this was actually. Mention this to do middle of 07 but my BMI was too high.Long story short had a few tests and was told i had gallstones. I then lost ova 2 stone waiting for my galbladder to be removed. On waiting list until April this year. About 3 weeks ago i had to visit GP to be signed off sick after op. I then mentioned my breast reduction again and said my BMI was now within the acceptable range. He referred me no problem. Got an appointment to PS 2 weesk later.
Went for my appointment last thursday. Doc came in asked how i was. I said fine. He looked at my breasts then started to take measurements. Then said straight away " yes i'll do it for you as you really deserve it" !!!!! I was greatlly shocked . I then got dressed and he then told me i had 2 choices, i could go away and have a think about it then let him know or he could put me on the waiting list now. Knowing how long these things take i said i would like my name on list straight away and i asked how long would it take before i could have it done.. " oh 6 to 8 weeks time or sooner if theres a cancellation !!. I nearly fell off the chair.

So now here i am panicing as to whether i can cope with the pain i may have and not really having as much time as i thought id have to get my head round it all.
I really want this done but it doesnt stop me being scared to death..
Any words of wisdom will help please and any experiances welcome ??
Im 5'5 10st 8 ..size10/12 at bottom and 36 H
I [/b][/color][/size]

[mousegirl]

Chris. I found this forum today as I was looking for info on how scars heal.....I am 5 and a half weeks post surgery and I have to say it was the BEST thing I have ever done!!!!! I was a 32G and I am only 5ft 2. I went to my gp 12 years ago who said to go away and have children first...which was sensible as i went up to an H cup! Last September I decided I had had enough of the constant back, neck, shoulder pain....not to mention sore arms from rubbing t-shirts and lack of ability to do any sport properly......even with a very good fitting bra! In Sept 2007I went to my gp (a man) who was very sympathetic and said he would refer me....he said If I didn't hear or got rejected to go back to him as he would fight my case! Luckily for me I had an appointment in oct and they put me straight on the waitng list. I had my op on 23rd April 2008 ( it got cancelled the first time) I have to say I had lots of fears desite having had two general anasthetics before...also my NHS hospital had a norovirus oputbreak the day before I went in!!!! I just tried to focus on the end result.....My stay in hospital was two days and yes it was painful...but they give you great pain relief!!!!! It has taken me 5 weeks to get anywhere near back to normal and I feel quite exhausted if I do too much...I am normally quite active with 2 young children to look after and it was 4 weeks of not being able to do much at all. I sleep on my front usually....and so I am not sleepng to well...I still can only sleep on my back. I had some complications BUT I would still do it again in a heartbeat knowing what could occur...I had a haematoma behind my nipple and three places which have still not healed due to fat necrosis (I looked that up on the internet in week 2 and was horrified.....but 3 weeks on and it is nearly healed...I just have slightly wider scars under that nipple) I am just beginning to see what shape I am going to be,,,as a little 32C and I finally look like me...in proportion!!! I can buy a size 12 top and bottom and it fits... I am a 9st 5....having gone from 10st8 to 9st 10 in the run up to the op...without any loss of boob.....They took 400g from my right boob and 500g from my left and I came out of hospital 9st 8 and have lost a few pounds since...it took me a bit of time to get eating properly again....but I repeat I feel fabulous now!!! I can't thank my surgeon enough. I wish you luck and hope you feel as fabulous as I do

Jo x

[chris6111]

Thanks for the speedy reply. Where in you get your op done? im in Durham