I want to get a reduction to correct assymetry as well as to make me a lttle smaller, my size is too big for my frame although it causes me no medical physical problems, I am just uncomfortable with this and have been for years. I will be paying for it myself, which sucks. Has anyone here had a reduction that could give me any advice when looking for a surgeon? I am in the Northern VA area.

I don't know if you have your surgery yet but I would say do lots of research and if you don't feel right about the surgeon then run fast! I had a reduction 2 years ago and I did my research first hand, make sure the surgeon is board certified by either of the boards of plastic surgery, you can find all of that information online I also think you can check with your state to verify as well. I am also in VA and I used a wonderful surgeon name Dr Carney at the Carney Center in Newport News. I selected him because he and his staff made me feel comfortable when I went in for my inital consultation and he took time to sit and answer all my questions, I had seen numerous other doctors and they didnt even give me much as 15 minutes which irritated me because I was investing $5000 in this procedure. One even told me he would have to cut off my areola which scared the hell outta me because I would like to breast feed in the future but Dr carney assured me he wouldn't take it off so I went with my instincts and selected him. THe experience was great and two of my sisters also had the same procedure done by him.

I paid for the surgery out of pocket as well and do not regret doing it althought the scars are truly still visible.

I wish I could help you as far as knowing who in VA in a good plastic surgeon, but I live in PA so wouldn't be much help to you as far as recommending a specific doctor for you. I agree with everything that Avony said and make she he's board certified. My decision was made easy for me, as my family physician referred me to the plastic surgeon, and I trust my doctor implicitly. I also heard several people say how good the plastic surgeon was, which also helped reassure me that he is good. I had my initial consultation in April and my surgery in July. From the very first visit, I felt at ease with the surgeon and knew that I'd be safe in his hands (literally!). He took his time and let me ask all the questions I wanted, not rushing me out of there at all. Before surgery, I was a DDD cup and am now a small C cup. I don't regret having the surgery and feel soooooo much better!
My advice is to ask around about a plastic surgeon...ask your doctor, get opinions from others. Search the net. Lots of info out there. Good luck!

I had it done and have no regrets - but I knew in advance that I was keloid scar former. The scarring is raised and visible - and yes, it does bother me. But in terms of a relationship, I know that anybody who is put off by that isn't worth worrying about. Just the ability to look decent in clothes again was completely worth it

sensibleshoes & yomamab,
Would you please tell me the recover time you both had after the sugery.
and are the scars very visible. Not that it will stop me from undgoing the op