My Sister is Having Unnecessary Breast Reduction Surgery

Nov. 9, 2015

Dear Cathy:

We are an African American family.  All 5 of my sisters are well-endowed but my youngest sister wants to have breast reduction surgery.  I have tried to talk her out of it but her mind seems to be made up.  She is overweight for her height so if she lost some of the weight, she might be fine with her breast.  Breast Reduction, California

Dear Breast Reduction:

California is actually one of the healthiest states out there.  In that state, many women are obsessed with what they eat.  Many women have body image issues, which can lower their self-esteem.  However, I agree with you that your sister should rethink and avoid any type of unnecessary surgery.

Anytime you have any type of surgery, there can be complications.  This is a surgery where she will be put to sleep and there is a reason why Anesthesiologists have to take out a lot of insurance in their jobs. 

It’s because many times when people are put to sleep because of surgeries, they don’t wake up.  And instruments such as sponges and scissors are left in over 50 people every week in the U.S., which can cause serious issues such as infections or even death. 

Everyone need to rethink having any unnecessary surgery.  The goal is to avoid ending up in any type of hospital, because once you are committed, anything can happen to you.

After breast reduction surgery, many times women will lose weight, then many will regret having had the breast reduction surgery in the first place.

Instead of surgery, tell your sister to investigate these ideas first.  Get fitted for a bra and engage in a regular exercise program while choosing to eat a good diet, especially foods for her blood type.

Instead of the surgery I would suggest that your sister get fitted for a bra.  Many African American women are still trying to wear $10.00 bras from Wal-mart and they will not cut it.  You can’t buy a cheap bra, especially if you are already overweight.  

Many department stores, such as Macy's, will measure women for bras and even have a selection of bras, including sports bras.  You need to pay at least $70 to $100 or $150 for a good fitting bra.  Not only will a good fitting bra make you look better in your clothes and boost your self-esteem, but it will make you look like you have lost weight.  

Even engaging in a good workout program, where she can strengthen the muscles around her breast, would probably make her happier than she is now.  So again, I would not engage in any unnecessary dangerous surgery, which she might regret later on. 

If she decides to go ahead with the surgery, it's important to eat right and be in good shape so she will recover sooner.