So, this blog is for my lovely friends. Something to keep you updated on this process - probably one of THE most important decisions I have made so far. I can't believe I am finally really going through the process of a breast reduction. It's been on my mind for so long. It's always sort of been at the back of my mind - but this year I found out that OHIP covers it and I couldn't think of a reason to not seriously consider it.
So here I am hours of research and 2 consultations later. It's been an interesting process so far.
It began about a month ago I think. I woke up one Tuesday morning and something came over me. I called the walk-in clinic, made and appointment and went to the doctor in the next 3o minutes. I told him what I was thinking and he gave me a referral. I came home and did hours of research on the process, the advantages, the risks, everything I could possibly find on this. Then i found some more plastic surgeons around and made appointments. Two on Nov 5th and one on Nov 26th. I continued my research after making those appointments.
It's crazy how common this surgery is. Every single person I talked to about this knew one or more person in their friends circle or family that's done it. I was able to talk to these women and get a lot of my questions answered. The consensus from all these women was that this was one of the best decisions they have ever made.That was comforting. Since I am a Christian getting this sort of information from Christian women I respect also meant a lot. It would have been difficult if it was an issue of right or wrong. But it's not. My intentions are not rooted in vanity but primarily physical issues and concerns, things that are real to me and have been for a very long time (constant back, neck and shoulder pains) and self-consciousness (sexual harassment). I feel like my shoulders are permanently hunched over from all that weight. It's frustrating. The idea of not having to deal with stuff like that is so tempting. I know that there is a deeper level of healing that needs to take place from the self-consciousness all these years but this will be a good start. I am extremely excited for it.
There are a few risks though. The ones that are most commonly mentioned are negative effects on breastfeeding and temporary or permanent loss of feeling in nipples. The breastfeeding one was the biggest concern - But not very much of a big deal. Does that make sense? It was what I looked into most because it is serious but I don't feel strongly about it. It is an important thing and I'm very much for breastfeeding but my research also shows that women are definitely able to breastfeed after, perhaps not 100% capacity but they are and there are ways to increase the milk supply. Also, there are tons of women out there who are unable to breastfeed for various other reasons. This issue is not something I feel strongly about. I'm not sure if I am being selfish but I don't find myself caring SO much about it. As for the nipple-feeling loss in all my research I haven't found anyone with that problem so I am pretty confident that it's not a big deal. But if it does happen I am willing to just deal with it.
I have had consultations so far. Jenna came to both of them with me. I couldn't have done it alone. It was an awkward process but it wasn't as bad I thought it would be. The first doctor was a big jerk, with the bedside manners of a jerk. I had a TON of questions and it seemed like he was taken aback, offended almost, that I would be so concerned as to bring a list of question. How could he expect anything different??? Definitely not doing my surgery with him. The second one was extremely nice and helpful and totally willing to answer my questions. He seemed to really care. He is the top choice so far. I want to go to a couple more before I make a decision.
I am really hoping to get this surgery done during the reading week in Feb. Take that week off and really rest it up. I want to get it done before I start working. I just don't want to deal with this stuff then. I want to be taken seriously when I get to that stage and just keep this part separate from that stage of life. I really hope the timing works out.
More to come in the upcoming months. It's going to be quite the journey.
3 comments:
i love you!!
Priyanka, I emailed you but I think this is a wonderful decision. I cant imagine (of course i cant..geez look at me!) what you go through on a daily basis. I remember speaking with you over the summer about it when you were staying with me (or was it before that? i cant remember) anyways and i think it's a great idea. I'm so happy OHIP covers it for you too! thats great!!
Keep us all updated Pri, I love you!! <3
ladies - thank you!! I LOVE YOU!!
jodi: yeah it was this summer. i remember bringing it up with you and mandy too i think. i'm so glad that i am finally going through with this. i'm nervous but so happy about this decision!
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