RA and breast reduction

[balbert]

I am looking into a breast reduction and have rheumatoid arthritis and was wondering if anyone has had the surgery before with RA? Or would you suggest it or not.

[angelsong]

I had a reduction 15 years ago. About 11 years before my diagnosis of any of illnesses.

I will say this. It was THE BEST DECISION I have made in regards to my health. It took me almost 10 years to go through with the surgery, but once I found the right doc, I wasn't nervous or scared!! It was my first time having surgery too!

I will say this: Do your research on doc's and hospital/clinic's. The doc closest to me that took my insurance was a quack!! I asked to see before/after pics. She questioned me. I told her I wanted to see what her work looks like. I didn't feel feminine to begin with and I wanted to make sure that I was going to get the look I wanted. Now.... I'm not joking when I say that in every photo, each woman's breasts looked like a piece of bread with the nipple in the center. I asked how long it would take for the procedure, 3 to SEVEN hours!! Why the difference?? Because she may be the only person working on you!! Meaning that she's the nurse, doctor and anesthesiologist!!!! Why does this happen?? Cuz people don't show up for work!! These were all red flags and I immediately called the insurance company and asked for every plastic surgeon in the state. I didn't care where I had to go. I interviewed over the phone first, then did an in person interview. I was up front with the person I was speaking with regarding my process. I ended up about 2 1/2 hours south of me. I stayed overnight at a hotel that had suites. I tested out the beds before I had surgery. It's not uncommon for you to do that. I had to stay 3 nights at the suite. I will say this... Get a recliner to sleep in for the first week. It was so helpful. I had a sleeper sofa in my living room that I set up prior to the big day. It was nice because it had the head of the bed raised. You have to sleep on your back for MANY weeks. It was difficult as I'm a side sleeper.

I was only off work for 2 weeks, I would recommend 3-4 minimum, depending on your profession. I'm in retail, and I don't have to lift anything heavy, but it was exhausting and pain filled. My boss didn't care.

Good luck!!

[balbert in reply to angelsong]

Thank you for the info! I have research the doctor and have heard great news!!! She evens gives her patients her cell number after surgery.

My worry is RA.

I am still going to go with it!

Thanks