I can only respond to the breast reduction. I had a reduction in 1991. I only thought I could get one if I lost weight (I am only about 50 lbs over). My dr told me that even if I lost over 100 lbs I would not lose in the chest area because it was all me. They took off 5 lbs total and I actually had to go through therapy on my shoulder because I had to relearn how to stand and hold myself. Its one of the best things I ever did. I no longer have the indents from my bra strap, my outlook on life improved, and it did help with some of the back pain (although 5 years later I would have back surgery). I also had a fantastic doctor who told me everything that would happen before it did. Please be aware that if you have the reduction, you may go through a sense of mourning after the procedure (akin to losing a breast). I actually laughed at my doctor when he told me this as I wanted the procedure too much. However, 2 days after the surgery, I was in a contant depression and asking my mom why she let me mutilate myself until I realized my doctor told me this would happen. Once I realized that, I was fine. Getting new bras was like going through a candy store. Good luck if you decide to do it and good luck on your weight reduction. You are the only one that can decide because if you aren't doing it for yourself you won't be happy with it. I think though you will be happy and will find alot of relief from it.

Charla