Panniculectomy and Breast Reduction - Anyone?? - Cosmetic / Plastic Surgery Message Board

jbean2 · 04-05-2004, 10:30 PM

Hi - My doctor is recommending I have a panniculectomy (removal of the fatty tissue hanging down from the belly - similar to a tummy tuck but way more extensive) as well as a breast reduction. I had always thought that whenever I finished losing weight I'd probably have to have these procedures anyway, but the problem is that I have been fighting constant rashes and infection under my belly - especially triggered whenever I start an exercise program! I have tried all kinds of creams and powders but nothing is working any more. I now have an ulcer (open sore) the size of a quarter that won't heal - it's been 6 weeks now. This is why my doctor thinks I may need to go ahead and have the removal done now. I wondered if anyone else has had this done that is very large (I'm around 300 lbs.) and if it helped with the back pain, ulcers/rashes, etc., and what it was like? Also, he is saying I should go ahead with a breast reduction to help with the constant headaches I get (VERY severe ones) due to the weight on my neck/shoulders. Has anyone had both these procedures done at the same time?!! It seems extreme - but then if I'm going to be in pain, may as well get it over with...??!!

Thanks for any input... BTW, I have lost 45 lbs. so far but just have come to a standstill due to not being able to exercise...

charla657 · 04-06-2004, 12:02 AM

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

PeggyHarmon · 04-21-2004, 01:34 PM

I had a bust reduction in 95...It too was one of the best things I did. My neck strain--my shoulder, and bra indentions, as mentioned have all since disappeared in a timely manner. I would do it all at once. If the doc is recommending now--do it. I see no use in waiting. As you will and do loose some weight during the process of it. Since you are limited and restricted, I'd watch what you eat to keep from gaining anything back. I will tell you---2 surgeries at once will be rough. I did the tummy tuck in Dec. this year...it too has been a blessing, considering its taken me 4 mos. for the incision to close!!! But am I ever motivated to stick on a good eating routine, exercise and mentally it was a GREAT boost. Good luck and best wishes.

pixiepoodle · 04-22-2004, 11:17 AM

I just had a breast reduction 3 weeks ago and suffered with the rashes under them. I had always used power, which really didn't work. One day I read in a magazine about using deordant so when I tried it, it worked great and I never had a rash again. I used a semi-solid which was a bit sticky, but the solid was too difficult to rub on and with a spray, it would be going everywhere. If you can get your sore to heal, maybe you could try the deordant trick. Good luck.