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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To think I *do* need a breast reduction for medical reasons?

105 replies

Questionablmouse · 27/10/2025 12:28

I have absolutely enormous, heavy boobs. Last time I was measured (which is a couple of years ago now) I was a 36M. I'm five foot tall and while I'm overweight I used to be very active.

Now I have constant back, neck and shoulder pain so bad I was prescribed strong codiene, have stopped wearing underwired bras because even the properly fitted ones from Bravissimo were leaving my ribs in agony, and have to be extremely careful to keep underneath perfectly dry or I get sores. I can't sleep on my front without pillows under my chest and I feel like I'm suffocating on my back.

I had an appointment this morning with my GP and she was pretty dismissive, told me to exercise more to lose weight (I'm trying, but it genuinely feels impossible because I'm in so much pain even in a sports bra). I bought a bathing suit and tried swimming- my boobs escaped by the end of one lap on front of a packed pool which was incredibly embarrassing. I've lost almost two stone recently and my boobs haven't changed size at all.

I just want them gone and feel like they're smothering me! I wish private was an option but it's out of my reach unfortunately.

OP posts:
DiscoBob · 27/10/2025 12:33

It certainly sounds very uncomfortable for you. If you lose a certain amount of weight then they might be able to refer you for surgery? Don't give up on swimming. You can get full coverage swimwear and looser fabrics I think.

If you are very overweight would you consider WLI? Though obviously it's great if you can try and stick to a lower calorie diet with willpower alone. That can be difficult though as we all know.

TreeDudette · 27/10/2025 12:33

Try for a second opinion...

Questionablmouse · 27/10/2025 12:33

I am looking into both but unfortunately I was made redundant last year and due to a combination of caring responsibilities, my own ill health and a couple of other things I'm still out of work.

OP posts:
HedwigEliza · 27/10/2025 12:31

You’ll have to find a way to go private.

ldnmusic87 · 27/10/2025 12:31

That seems very unfair OP, I would look into a loan if you can.

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