80 Comments

  1. I have no experience in either, sweet friend, but I just wanted you to know that I will be thinking of you and praying for you and if there’s ANYTHING that I can do – you let me know, ok?! You know where to find me! I think it’s wonderful that you are putting this out there so that you can help others AND get some great advice from those who have already been through it. Sending you BIG hugs and lots of love!! It sounds like the right thing to do for sure! XO!

  2. Praying your surgeries go well! I’m a 34H, and so I know a little about the back and shoulder pain associated with large breasts! It’s frustrating that simple activities (like standing!) can cause such severe pain. I have thought about having a reduction as well, so I’ll be so interested to hear about your experience! Thank you so much for sharing!

    1. Everyone I know say that the pain of the surgery was worth it. I’m excited to have less daily pain, and to buy shirts with buttons down the front! 🙂

      1. I have had a double mastectomy for breast cancer, and now going through reconstructive process. Having everything removed is not too bad, comparing to skin stretching with expandera. Your process will be the opposite, so I am hopeful that it will not be too bad for you. And I know all about the post baby lose skin. Mine is not going anywhere… I am happy for you. It’s an exciting new chapter!

  3. I just had a major unexpected surgery due to a broken bone. I would HIGHLY recommend making some freezer meals that you can have hubby put into the crock pot or Instant Pot after surgery. Make sure you stock up on basics (cereal, toilet paper, etc) so there is less shopping to be done after the surgery.

    1. Yes, great suggestion on the meals! And thanks to Amazon Prime and Grove Collaborative, we generally don’t run out of the basics. 🙂

  4. As someone who has had the breast reduction surgery myself, I’ve always seen your beautiful pictures and thought you would love the surgery. It will change your life in so many good ways.

    I was 30, single, childless, and a 36J when I had my surgeries. My doctor didn’t even suggest that I wait until I had children to get it- he said there was no guarantee that I would be able to breast feed, and at already a J, getting pregnant might grow them further. I’m so glad I didn’t wait, as I’m 39 and still single and childless.

    As a big-chested girl from middle school on, the physical aspects were the norm for me. I didn’t think it would make much of a difference- so.wrong.

    I dont’ know about the tummy tuck, but the reduction recovery wasn’t too bad. It was my first surgery ever, and I had family to take care of me. I had it as outpatient, and went home and slept a few days away. I thought by the end of the week I could ride along with Mom to the Hobby Lobby, but I was exhausted and stayed in the car when we got there. I’m bad about overdoing it.

    This is the best decision to make, in my opinion, because the day after surgery someone noticed “you’re already standing up straighter than you used to.”

    It’s a great decision, and though it will be a smidge painful in the beginning… it will be TOTALLY worth it….

    1. I’ve always been very self-conscious of them and am grateful to finally be moving forward with the surgery. Good for you for not waiting!

      And yes, I have heard the reduction surgery isn’t too bad — its the abdominal surgery that is awful in terms of pain and recovery time.

      I’m glad it was a positive experience for you.

  5. Good luck!
    I had a major reduction in 2005 and it was one of the best decisions ever. I immediately felt back and neck relief (even with the pain of healing – and there’s a lot of pain in healing!). Lifting my arms above my head was difficult for a few weeks so I needed help washing my hair longer than I imagined I would.

    Just like any surgery the sooner you’re able to get up and move – even a little bit – the better you start to feel. Get some comfy cotton front closure bras (Walmart has a better selection than target) as that’s what you’re in for a few months.

      1. When I had shoulder surgery I bought cotton snap-front bras for less than 10.00 from Walmart and they made a world of difference in comfort. Wishing you all the best Jessica and will be praying for everything to go perfectly. While I haven’t had your particular surgeries, I have had several surgeries and the most important thing is to rest and allow your body to heel. When you start feeling better you’re going to have to force yourself to just take it slow! (((Hugs)))

  6. I had a reduction as well…so worth it! My Dr put me in a bra the day after surgery and that’s what I was to wear for recovery…you might check and see if yours does the same…

  7. Good luck to you and your surgeries. Thanks for sharing this with your readers. I have diastasis recti also. I had physical therapy soon after my son was born in 2011, but my tummy muscles haven’t come back together. I have struggled with back pain and ribs easily being misaligned and needing chiropractic adjustments. I will be praying for your recovery and following along for your tips and advice. This may be the push I need to get the surgery too.

    1. I think I might have a misaligned rib right now. It’s not fun! And I go to the chiro regularly too. I truly think this is the best solution, though I know it is going to be hard.

  8. I just had the reduction surgery 9/22. I can breathe & stand up straight. My neck & back don’t hurt! Amazing. It’s quite painful to move or walk in the couple of days after surgery. I was told no showers while the drains are in. & no deodorant until the scars are healed. I wanted the tummy tuck too but my surgeon said the surgery would be too long. Insurance covered my reduction. It was about 4.5 hours long. I bought some button up pajam tops from Wal-Mart. I’m heading to my hair salon today to have them wash my hair. Good Luck!

    1. Yes, I was told the same thing about showers. They said I will have the drains for 10-14 days. I can’t quite get my mind around how I get clean? Those big body wipe things? Clearly this is new territory for me.

      My total surgery will be 4-5 hours. Sorry you couldn’t do both at the same time. Thanks for sharing your story! Good luck with your continued healing.

      1. I had drains from mastectomy and was able to shower with them after a day or two. Just wear something around your neck that is waterproof (we had an old laynard we didn’t care about) and safety pin them to it.

  9. Good for you! My mom decided to have a breadt reduction in 2005, she was +50. Recovery was hard. The immediate results look scary, right after the operation. She has been so glad that she had it done. Her only regret is that she waited so long. With time the incision lines have healed up so nicely and her scaring has been very minimal. She is so glad to be able to fit into clothes easier. Best wishes for a speedy recovery to you. *My note as a RD, prep yourself with good nutrition for both pre and post op. The week of start supplementing with a fortified protein shake. Have these available for post opp to help your body heal and fight infection. Consider adding a fiber product to help keep you regular, especially when you need extra pain meds. Drink fluids :). If you have no appetite, small frequent ‘liquid meals’ can meet your needs. There are so many shake products available on the shelf, many taste pretty good, take advantage of these types of products.

  10. Hi there. I’ve had 5 kids and 4 cssctions. Right before I got pregnant with my 5th, I found a large hernia above my belly button. I knew I had abdominal issues from multiple pregnancies and then found the hernia. I planned on waiting to repair it bc I had just had twins and wanted more time to recover. Then surprise! Baby #5. 48 hours after my 5th was born I had major abdominal surgery. I had my hernia repaired but then they also found torn tendons, torn fascia, and torn muscles. My tissue was thinner than paper. They cut out all the thin tissue, reattached tendons + muscles, and repaired my hernia.

    I’m going to pray for you! I want to tell you more but it’s weird through public forum. Please reach out to me via email if you want more info/tips/encouragement 🙂

    1. Thank you so much for your prayers. I can’t imagine experiencing all of that with a new baby on top of it. You are a superhero.

  11. Brest reduction surgery was the best thing I ever did for me! Recovery was much tougher than I anticipated, I’ve had many other surgeries and this by far was one of the toughest but oh so worth it. You are definitely going to need help with everything from the kids to self-care. I was 44H prior to surgery and now I am a 38C. It’s been six years since my reduction and I absolutely love being able to buy blouses that button, bras that are cute and bathing suits that actually fit.

    Definitely make ahead some freezer meals or allow a friend to start a meal train for your family. Send the kids to school and daycare so you can rest while they are busy. At the time, I had a 3 year old who was about to transition from daycare to preschool, he and I stayed home alone on day 5 or 6, we did just fine. He was able to get in and out of his bed for naps and crawl into my lap for snuggles. One of the things I remember about recovery is how tired I was, even the smallest task would wear me out so take it east and don’t rush your recovery.

    I promise you won’t regret it! Best of luck to you.

    1. Thank you so much for your kind words. A few work friends are going to do a meal train and we will also do freezer meals. Since it will be Christmas month, I am going to make cut out cookies in November (and freeze them) so we can simply decorate in December. 🙂 And yes, all three kids will be in school- whew! The big kids know about the surgery, but I know it is going to be hard for Ezra to understand. He’s my cuddliest baby.

      1. We got creative! I put a pillow over my chest and he would crawl into my lap but I didn’t have the abdominal surgery at the same time.

        My husband had to wash my hair for me the first few times! Once I felt well enough, he drove me to my hair stylist for a nice wash and blow out.

        It’s all so worth it! I can do things now that I couldn’t before like running, you know if I wanted to . I did try couch to 5k, just because I could finally run without pain. I didn’t take to running but I do many other physical things that were impossible before. I’ve also lost a great deal of weight since my breast reduction but my cup size remains the exact same, only my band size changed. Funny thing, I still wear a bra from the moment I wake up until just before I go to sleep. I highly recommend that so your results remain consistent. You will still have weight in your breast even at a smaller cup size and you will want them to remain high.

  12. Have not personally had either, but want you to know that I will be praying for you and your sweet family during this time. super proud of you for opening up about it and sharing! I know God will bless your vulnerability by providing others who can give you tips and wisdom!

  13. Hi jessica! I’ve had abdominal surgery, though not to the same degree (I had an emergency trauma abdominal surgery for an internal bleed…yikes), but one thing that really helped was a heating pad and extra pillows for sleeping! Tucking extra soft pillows around the incisions and me as I healed was really nice. I also asked friends who offered to help to do things like return redbox or library books, and that was very helpful in terms of practical things people can do! It’s very hard recovering with little ones, but fresh books and movies helped a lot!
    Good for you for being honest and open, it’s something I always appreciate about your blog 🙂

    1. Thank you for your kind words! I’m planning on binging on a Netflix show or two during my time at home and yes to lots of reading. Several friends have advised getting a lift chair/la-z-boy to sleep in, so I have been watching Craigslist for a reasonable one.

  14. Congrats to you!!! I had a breast reduction at the age of 22, I am now 47 and have since had 3 children. My breasts have also grown a bit since then, I joke I need another one! It was a huge confidence builder for me, as I was very self conscious of my size. Since then, I have been a huge advocate and have encouraged many friends or even strangers to take the step….. And no regrets!!! Best of luck to you!!!!

  15. I have had a different kind of breast surgery (mastectomy), and I will just share that being put “under” is the best, it gets better every day, do the PT exercises faithfully, and teach your husband how to blow dry your hair now while you can. LOL. Best wishes to you!

  16. I had a breast reduction several years ago. I have also had other procedures as well. I agree with prepping food for the family. I was lucky most of my procedures were pre kid, and my mommy took care of me

    I will tell you I am always nauseous after anesthesia, so I ask to ensure I have either anti nausea mess in my IV or the patch. I am a total baby when it comes to puking!! Having the reduction was the best decision I ever made, however, I wish I was a bit wiser and more mature when I had it done. There was one spot that has never looked right and I let the doctor tell me it would heal fine and years later it is still not right. Stand P for yourself as you’re healing if there is ANYTHING you’re unhappy with. I’m not trying to freak you out, sometimes you and the doc may not know that your body will heal a certain way. So if anything is not to your liking (and hubby should pay close attention and speak up too since he probably knows your girls as well as you!) let the doctor know immediately.
    I know you’re a writer at heart too, I always take time to write a letter to my kids whenever I’m having a procedure or going on a plane. Morbid, I know, but I want them to always know where my heart is about them. I keep them in one personalized notebook that can be given to them later. It might help ease your mind to put your love for them on paper!
    Good luck with everything (I need to think about the tummy tuck someday too!!).

  17. I had a breast lift and a tummy tuck last November. I lost 125 lbs and had a lot of excess skin to remove. Before my weight loss I was wore a size F bra so I understand what it’s like to big up top. I have never regretted doing the surgery. Since you are going to be on pain medicine, something to know is that it causes constipation. My suggestion is the next day after surgery, start with 1 dose a day of Miralax. You just put it in water and drink it. Also, you want to make sure that you do not have a lapse in pain meds the first 3-4 days (or longer, depending on your pain tolerance.) If the bottle says that you can take the pain meds every 4 hours, do it. Set the alarm on your phone to wake you up in the middle of the night to take it. Once your pain level isn’t as high, you can decrease how often you take it. Go to the drug store before your surgery and buy a bottle of Tylenol, extra gauze pads (3×3 size), paper tape, steri-strips, miralax. Once you decide you no longer want to take the pain meds, you can take Tylenol for pain but not Advil. The gauze pads and paper tape is for your drains. They do sometimes leak so have the gauze taped on the drain site to soak up the fluid, if any. I had my drains for a week and I found it useful to wear a runner’s belt. I run and I already had it on hand but it’s like a fanny pack. I stuck my drains in the zipper pouch so they didn’t just hang. My suggestion is make sure that you do not remove any steri-strip bandages that are put on your incisions. This will help with minimizing the width of your final scars. If one comes off, put another on. The doctor will say to remove them but I found that my scar was thinner in places where I had the steri-strips on. Once the incision is fully closed up, you don’t have to use them anymore. The first week is a bit rough but you will get through it. You will definitely need help in and out of bed or a chair for the first few days. Have extra pillows on hand to prop your self up. This will elevate any pressure off of your tummy tuck incision. When I was sleeping, I put 2 behind my head, 1 under my lower back and 1 or 2 under my knees to sleep. You will not be able to sleep on your side for awhile so I found that tons of pillows helped a lot! I also found that having an ice pack on my stomach made me feel better and it helped with the swelling too. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have. The results are awesome! You have had 3 kids, you’ve got this!

  18. I too had reduction surgery and it was the best decision I ever made. I may be the minority but my recovery was amazing with little to no pain. My doctor put a pain pump in that I had removed on day 4 (itty putty catheter lines ran under each breast), and I had no pain at all. Once the catheters were pulled on day 4…I had very little to no pain from then on. It is totally worth it if your dr will do the pain pump. I didn’t know mine did until I woke up, but that made recovery so easy. I had surgery on a Wednesday and line pulled on Sat, and left for Christmas vac on Monday with no issues/pain. I used panty liners laid against my incision when I wore a bra at first so they didn’t rub. Best of luck…you definitely won’t regret it. My scars are barely visible at this point.

  19. I have several friends who have had breast reduction surgery and not a one regret it. I had a mastectomy and reconstruction last year and can say that it was not that bad. I took muscle relaxers to keep my chest muscles from tightening up, which made me very sleepy for several days. The drains I had were annoying (one each side). I was able to shower by wearing something around my neck to safety pin them to. They were mildly sore, mostly aggravating when they tugged. I also pinned them to my clothes to keep them from dragging. Wishing you a speedy recovery! Would a local friend organize a Meal Train perhaps?

    1. Yes, a work friend is going to organize some meals. I’m so grateful.

      And I won’t have drains for my breasts, but will for my stomach. 🙂

  20. Hi Jessica,
    I’ve not had either surgery but wanted to suggest Walmart grocery pickup which is a free service offered by lots of Walmart stores where you can pre-order your groceries online even weeks ahead and they bring them to your car and load them for you. It’s a great service that I’ve used many times and will be a great help to your husband while you recover and you in January. Many prayers for a successful surgery and swift recovery!

  21. What a wonderful thing! I’m so excited for you! I,too, am very self conscience about my breast size (44H–though the doctor I spoke with about reduction didn’t think they were that big, but that’s the only bra that fits!). My insurance won’t pay unless they take out a certain amount of tissue and the doctors usually want to be paid up front. I’m willing to have the surgery and pay whatever necessary, but I am holding back on one thing–that doctor told me that since my nipples were facing downward and out, that I would need my nipples removed and then reattached–and they could fall off. That scared me. I want to go for a second opinion, but it unnerved me so that I have just put it off. I’m tired of neck and shoulder pain. And low back pain. And mid back pain.

    I’ll be checking in on your progress and praying for you!!

    1. I had to have that done…as long as you keep your dressings clean and use the whatever they give to keep the area moist (like A&D) it worked fine. The only warning my doc gave me relating to that was in the shower while you are healing, don’t have water stream directly on them. Basically, keep your back to the water. It really was so worth it. Maybe the doc you met with wasn’t the right one for you. Sometimes you kind of feel in your gut that something is off. Try talking to someone else and see if they can help ease your mind.

    2. Yes, I think the tissue volume thing is standard. Thankfully, I have so much that I will be getting way more removed than the minimum required. (I know it is different for everyone based on body weight.) And yes, the nipple removal and reattachment is standard. The surgeons I spoke with both said that the falling off happens very rarely (about 1 in 1,000), so I am not too concerned about it. Best of luck, whatever you decide! You have to do what is right for you.

      1. I didn’t realize the rarity of them falling off. That makes me feel MUCH better! I’m going to seek a second opinion and then move forward with the surgery. I’m so tired of my pain issues. My chiropractor couldn’t even work my neck like normal the last time because it was so tight.

        Thanks so much for sharing this. It’s brave and completely transparent. You posting your story gives me hope and encouragement for mine. Thanks, friend. 🙂

  22. Hey Jessica, not sure you remember me but we did AH Inspired together when it was in Nashville and we’re friends on FB which is how I found your post. I recently had surgery that, by comparison to what you’re about to do, was minor but I did go under. The best advice I have for you is to take it easy. The first two to three days is going to be rough, and I believe your shoulders might hurt (if they pump any air into your abdomen to do anything. Depending on what sort of procedure they put you through the day before surgery (no solid foods etc) the anesthesia will most likely make you nauseated when you come to especially if you went into the surgery with zero solid foods in you like I did. Ginger ale helps, so do crackers but your mouth will be crazy dry so take it really really easy. But seriously do not feel compelled to do anything physical. You might get stir crazy after day three but against all instinct just sit and let people wait on you. Good luck with everything!

    1. Of course I remember you! And yes, I don’t think I will have any trouble staying quiet for those first few days.

  23. I had a breast reduction about 5 years ago and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. My horrible neck pain and headaches are gone! My advice is be patient. After surgery and my bandages were removed I thought what on earth have I done! It takes many months for things to get to their new normal and the initial results can be scary looking.

  24. I am so happy for you! I haven’t had the surgery, but I’ve considered it (breast reduction). I’m not as severe as you are but I’ve started having neck and shoulder pain. So annoying. I am eager to see how it goes for you, and I wish I lived closer so I could lend a hand. I’m sure you’ll be well taken care of. It sounds like your hubby is 1 in a million. 🙂

  25. Wow! I’ll definitely be praying for you as you go through this, Jess. I haven’t had either of these surgeries, but I have had 25 surgeries on various things and the best thing I can tell you is to listen to your body. I can imagine that with 3 young kids, you’ll feel pressure to get back to routine ASAP for them, but don’t force it. I have pushed myself too far after surgery and ended up setting myself back in recovery, sometimes by weeks. It’s not worth it. No one is superhuman! Best of luck 🙂

    1. Thank you for that encouragement. I keep reminding myself of that, especially since Christmas is my favorite time of year.

  26. Good for you!!!! I have had two major surgeries–not either of these–but here are things I learned. If it involves stomach or leg muscles, you might consider one of those raised toilet seats. I laughed my head off at it but got one and never regretted it. Wished I had one for my first surgery! Get a lap desk. I can give you the link to the one I have on Amazon. You can literally lie down and have it turned towards you to read at an angle when you don’t have the strength to hold it yourself. And it is awesome to use with drinks or eating on the couch or even a recliner. Twisting and reaching are not easy or impossible. A lap tray is a must. Freezer meals ahead of time with a list of ideas will help. But up the snacks and breakfast and light lunch ideas that you want BEFORE surgery. Don’t trust that even a meal that someone brings you or your own freezer meals sound good. I only wanted crackers and ham/cheese, yogurt, hard boiled eggs, salty tortilla chips, nuts, jello, etc. you will have had major surgery so think protein and fiber. Get LaCroix or other flavored water. You will drink so much and sometimes bubbly and flavored settle things or make you happier than you can imagine. Get a NECK PILLOW. Oh my word, there were times I could not get comfortable as sleeping on the couch was the only way I could do my leg surgery. The neck pillow on top of my regular pillow helped. And while watching TV on your side or however you can get comfortable. Perfect.

    Let people serve you. I learned the hard way to get off email and stay off. You never know how those meds will affect you and while you think you make sense, others know better!!! If you overdo it, you might regret it.

    Lots of things!! But they help!!! Love ya!

  27. I had breast reduction a year ago. I was a size H as well, and at only five feet tall it was so necessary. I was self-conscious and my back pain was terrible. I found a doctor that didn’t use drains (everything I read said that was the most painful part) and did everything they told me to do–which included rest and pain meds. Recovery went fantastic and I was back to work in about three weeks. (I am a photographer that has to lift a lot of heavy gear.) I am so, so happy I did it and I would recommend it to anyone that has a larger chest. It is life changing. But someone above that mentioned how scary it is the day after is right. I looked the day after and then tried not to look directly in the mirror for a few weeks as I had a serious panic attack as to what I may have done to myself! But now? They look fabulous. You will be SO glad you did it.

  28. I am SO interested to hear how this goes for you! And excited for you! I have wanted/needed one for several years. Please post about how it goes. Good luck! Hope you’re able to get good rest!

  29. I haven’t had your specific kind of surgery, but for the surgery I did have, being put under was a breeeeeze. Don’t even worry about that part of it. They will give you some awesome meds to relax you and the next thing you know, you’ll be waking up. It was the easiest part of the whole experience. The post-op nausea and recovery process was awful though – I won’t sugar coat that! Good luck!

  30. Best thing I EVER did for myself was a reduction. It will literally change you life for the better. I sleep better and my activity rate is so much higher since I can move better and do more! My advice is to rest and not push it. Give your body a lot of time to heal and don’t over extended yourself or you can tear a stitch and re-open the wound and healing will take longer (I know first hand! Ha!). Praying for you as you go through it! It will take a long time for your brain to catch up to your new body but over time it will be your own ( for the first year I felt like I had someone else’s body and didn’t register my own reflection!). Praying for fast healing and pain managment! You’ll rock it!

  31. A friend of mine had an abdominoplasty earlier this year and did some vlogs about it. She did have some complications–but I guess it’s better to be prepared for that possibility although hopefully that won’t happen for you! https://www.youtube.com/user/mommywonderland She’s on FB & IG as mommywonderland too

    Sounds like you are making a good decision! Good nutrition and supplements to promote healing are important too! This is a great post on wound healing and if it were me I would start taking them now to be ready to heal!

    May God’s hand be on you and help you!

  32. I have no experience of my own to share. But I have heard many women say that they are so happy to have had a breast reduction surgery.

    It sounds like it’s the right thing for you to do.

    Praying that you recover quickly.

  33. I have not had either of these surgeries but have had many. I am a breast cancer survivor. Yes to buying soft comfortable bras. I even went braless for a while cause it hurt too bad to wear anything. Follow the doctors directions closely when they send you home. As far as how often to ice or heat and anything else he tells you. It is all time consuming and hard to keep up with so ask for help keeping track of it or buy a good timer or something. It helped me tremendously. I pray for easy and quick recovery for you. Only thing I had to watch is I did not want to wake up out of the anesthesia. So they learned to not give me so much. Give it to a mom to wanna lay in bed sleeping longer. LOL!!!

  34. I had BR surgery at age 19. I went from an H cup to now a C cup. I am now 28 years old and after the initial recovery, have had zero issues. I am very fair skinned so my scars are visible, but not too bad. I did have drains, where they were attached made the reddest scar. Stock up on A&D ointment, it feels the most soothing on the incisions.
    I am so glad that I had it done. Buying bras at a regular store, in cute colors is probably the best part. I do remember the car ride home being the worst part. I had brought by pillow to hospital, so I just hugged pillow the whole ride to keep from “bouncing”. I then kept a small pillow in the car for the next few weeks to hug during car rides, because you can feel the smallest bump.
    Good luck!

  35. I had a major abdominal surgery which left me with the same incision you would have with a tummy tuck (basically hip to hip). When I got home from The hospital I tried to sleep in my bed but the pain and inability to get up or even turn over was too much. I found the best solution was to sleep in a recliner. It allowed me to lay in a position that wasn’t completely flat which helped alleviate some pain. It was also crucial in bringing me to a sitting position, which was much easier to then stand up. We didn’t own a recliner so my husband went out and bought me one and it was the best thing for my recovery. The pain was much more intense and longer lasting than I was prepared for but after you get through that and they take the drains out you’ll be so happy. Also if they won’t let you use deodorant you may want to check and see if there’s something from a natural deo line that they would allow. Native (online) deodorant is all natural and may be an option. Good Luck!!

  36. Jess, I know this was a BIG decision, but I think you will be so glad when you can put it behind you. It’s not an easy road ahead, but you’ll have a different life post recovery! I will definitely be praying for you and Matthew.

    Give yourself LOTS of grace and time for recovery. There’s a lot of one step ahead two steps back. Walk as much as possible, even right away because it helps with posture and mobility. Get a seat for the shower – it’s exhausting to take one but sooooo great at the same time. Digestion and pain meds are not friends, so do whatever you need to do to stay on top of that because constipation + major abdominal surgery are horrible. Fiber, Colace, EOs, Etc.

    Let people who offer to help do specific tasks, instead of just a general offer. That way they are able to help you as they want to with how they are most comfortable/gifted. For instance if someone says “let me know if you need anything” let them know specific needs your family has and ask what they’d prefer – a meal, house cleaning, errands, laundry, etc

    I’m sure I will think of more to pass along. Text me with questions anytime!

  37. I had shoulder surgery in 2013 to repair a 4th degree separation of my AC joint. It was a 2 hour surgery, and I was in a HUGE metal brace that surrounded my waist and kept my shoulder immobilized with my arm at a 90 degree angle – for 6 weeks. At the time I had a 2 and 4 year old. I slept in a recliner for 6 weeks, and then sleeping was so painful even with it off, I stayed in the recliner for a few more. (Sept 23-early Dec). I didn’t have use of my dominant arm at all during those weeks, and my husband was a great help to me when he came home. But I didn’t even drive for that time frame. I started PT in late Nov and regained full ROM after about a year.

    I say all of that to say that while it was extremely hard to have the surgery (the pain after the nerve block wore off was excruciating for 24 hours), I realized how strong I could be and how important it is to ask for help. I cried the first time I realized I couldn’t eat a default sandwich because I couldn’t lift it with one hand. At lot of my meals had to be cut up. But I learned humility and patience. I learned that God can use surgery as a way to relate to others and comfort them in they own trials. And that the end of those weeks of recovery, plan something for just YOU and enjoy as a reward to yourself for being strong!

    Oh, and I also listened to a lot of calming music on iHeart radio as I had to wake up every 4 hours to take pain meds. It was difficult to fall back asleep with a dark and quiet house, but the songs fed my mind and soul!

    Praying for you!

  38. As a home health nurse, I would tell you to follow the guidelines on your activity level…you can hurt yourself if you do too much too quickly. And don’t be afraid of the pain meds….”keep on top of your pain”. Speedy recovery to you!
    (As a friendly aside…you mentioned “hiring a nurse”. If you are actually hiring an aide, please remember nurses are licensed, aides are valuable to recovering patients, but they are not actually nurses). 🙂

  39. I have not had either surgery but dos have a friend who had a tummy tuck! Four weeks seems like a very short recovery time. She had normal ups and downs with no crazy complications and was not able to return to work until about 9-10 weeks out after surgery. I helped her with her kids and they were unable to even touch her for a week due to pain and her being afraid of popping stitched and staples! Just be prepared for needing extra help with your kiddos!! I’ll be praying for your recovery!!

  40. Sending good thoughts and prayers for your preparation, surgery & recovery. I had BR & hysterectomy many years ago (both in Nov/Dec timeframe, different years, off work 4-8 weeks with each), so have some understanding of what you’ll go through. The psychological “lift” from the BR was most unexpected, but very welcome along with the physical relief. Instead of matronly, I felt & still feel younger and perkier. There’s a seamless surgical bra that’s great to wear after the BR, just left it on all the time. (Even now mine have seamless cups as they’re much more comfortable.) With both surgeries, you will have lifting restrictions, weight restrictions as well as not reaching up with your arms over your head for a while. So if there’s anything on a high shelf that you regularly use, you should consider relocating it to a lower, more reachable shelf. Or plan for someone else to get it for you. Hope you have all of your Christmas shopping & wrapping done prior to surgery too. You’ll tire more quickly than you’re used to and that means you need to rest more. Great idea to fix Christmas cookies ahead of time. You could also check with your family to prioritize favorite things to eat, do, etc. for the holidays. We picked one cookie, chocolate fudge and pumpkin pie as our favorites and skipped the rest. We picked just a few activities to do, including our normal holiday family photo, and skipped some of the other things we’d done in previous years. We did have company come for the holidays and I “let” my mom, sisters & husband handle the meal prep and any major lifting. We managed and still had a wonderful holiday season and I know you will as well. Another tip for kids and pets: since you can’t pick them up for a while, when you’re comfortable with it, sit on the couch (or recliner) and have them get up next to you for snuggles. They do pick up on your weaknesses and that way they can help you & learn to be gentle and neither of you has to miss as many of the snuggles & cuddles. Hope everyone else in the family stays healthy during your recovery! For one of my surgeries, my husband had unexpected back surgery & for a couple of days neither of us could drive! Also that year we had to have my dad stop by to bring the Christmas tree & ornaments down from the attic since neither of us could do it. Plan ahead as best you can!

  41. Jessica, I am so very happy for you to have these surgeries. I had abdominoplasty about 21 years ago when my twins were 12. Your description sounds just like mine was. I had a hysterectomy at the same time with insurance paying for that but of course not the “tummy tuck.” I have never regretted it. I don’t remember any unbearable pain but had a lot of nausea while in the hospital from the morphine. When that came off I felt so much better. You will get stronger and fell better every single day. And you will look back on it with such thankfulness like I did! You need both of these surgeries, and Jessica, you deserve them! I will be praying you through it!

  42. Jessica,
    I had a breast reduction when I was 17 years old- yep, 17. I am now 46- so to say that the surgery has come a long way is an understatement. Yet even then, the recovery was not that bad. Now I know when we were young(er), especially 17, our bodies healed faster than they do now. And since you are having the two procedures done at once, you will have more going on- but I think you will find that the breast reduction recovery will be a much easier recovery that you expect. 🙂 I used Jack Fisher and could not be happier- the surgery was one of the best things I ever did. You will look back on it and be so thankful:) I know we’ve never met in person, but we are in the Nashville Influencers together. I live in Lebanon but am in Nashville several times a week for work. Will be more than happy to help you with anything you need- errands, grocery, whatever. Just let me know. 🙂 Will keep you in prayer as the time approaches. Blessings, Elizabeth

  43. Not the same – but similar. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 46, and the doctors recommended a mastectomy. I had reconstruction at the same time, in which my breast tissue was replaced by my belly fat (they tunneled it under the skin). I think I had three drains, and my husband, bless his heart, helped with emptying them. It also required moving my belly button up (weird, I know). I’ve never regretted the reconstruction. I love a flat belly, which I never had before. Recovery was slow; it was 10 years ago, so I’ve forgotten a lot. I remember sleeping on my side with a microbead pillow against my belly. I didn’t think I’d recover my core strength (I’d have to roll over on my side, and push myself to sitting), but eventually I did. I’ve had two other major surgeries, all cancer-related, so I’ve gotten used to anesthesia, needles and such. Wishing you peace through the process, and good healing. God bless.

  44. I had two C-sections and then an unexpected third (basically) for a hysterecomy, so I certainly know about stomach surgeries. Having meals lined up, books, a Netflix queue, etc. are all important. I’d also throw in to be sure to eat a lot of fibre, drink room-temp water, etc. to make sure everything runs as it should! When you’re sitting/lying down a lot after stomach surgery and taking painkillers, it can be very constipating. Good luck with the surgery — it sounds like it’s going to be great!

  45. I’ve never had either of these surgeries, but I had abdominal surgery to remove a cyst on my ovary over 10 years ago. I remember being afraid to go under, but on the morning of, I had great peace. Recovery was tough as I think we don’t realize just how often we’re moving our abdominals for just about every action we do. Even typing on a computer right now, I feel movement in my abdominals! I made it though with lots of rest, good movies and great books. Actually it was a great time of healing, both physically and emotionally. I’ll pray that it’s the same for you!

    The recovery will be long and while it may be tough, you just need to give yourself real time to rest and recover. I know that’s easier said than done when you have kids! I would say take any help that you can get. One thing I would suggest is maybe having your husband or a friend start a sign-up for meal provision. Our church does that for people that are battling illnesses or going through surgeries. I know that’s a big help as it’s something you don’t have to worry about preparing for your family. If that’s not possible, maybe prepare some freezer meals in advance of your surgery for easy cooking later.

    Get some great books and movies, feed your soul. That really helped me when I was laid up for a few weeks. It’s really easy to become depressed in that sort of situation when you can’t really do anything or help anyone. Try to stay focused on the outcome; your recovery is temporary and your quality of life will be so much better when you’re through it! Praying for a good outcome for you and that your recovery is quick!

  46. I’m just now taking the time to see what type of surgery you had. Wish I would have checked sooner! After my third child when we thought we were finished having children (oops) I had a lift and tummy tuck. In my case the Dr felt the lift would be enough of a reduction. The pain of the tummy tuck recovery made me forget I had any sort of breast surgery! If you are still not vertical never fear! I could not stand up straight until the sixth week. My best friend was our rental medical recliner chair that pushed me all the way up to a standing position. Probably a little late for that advice. I also had a toddler I couldn’t lift at the time. Heart breaking. As most cases more for you than them. I had my fourth child a year after surgery and everything went back into place nicely when I lost all that baby weight. Now that I’ve gained most of that back years later I feel I have zero core strength so I’ll be taking a look at that video. Prayers for you. Be patient with yourself. Take it easy. You’ll have many more Christmases.

  47. I somehow missed this until just now…I’m so so so so so jealous. I’m only 4’9″ so 38DD’s {up to 42DDD’s when nursing} have looked ridiculous on me for years. My work is fairly demanding and I don’t have near the vacation time you seem to have so I’m not sure I will ever be able to swing it, but I can honestly say I have dreamed about reduction every day for years. The clothes options, not needing a $70 sportsbra every time I want to do something more active than walk across the room, not ever being able to buy a normal swimsuit {again that isn’t $150}, formal wear, anything that doesn’t look like a tent basically. I wish I were in your shoes!!

    1. I’m so sorry. Like you, a reduction is something I wanted to do for decades. I took short-term disability for much of my recovery period (not vacation time). I will say that if you are considering just a breast reduction (not the abdominal repair at the same time), the recovery is fairly easy and substantially shorter.

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