Patient testimonial: Piper’s Story

The physical strain of having large breasts often leads people to seek breast reduction surgery, not just for aesthetic reasons, but as a way to alleviate persistent pain and improve overall quality of life.

For Piper Carscadden, 32, the extra weight on her chest caused constant neck, back and shoulder pain, as well as nightly headaches.

“My posture was bad from being hunched over,” she adds. “And I had divots in my shoulders from my bra straps.”

She could only find one style of bra in her size, which is a hardship in itself, she says.

Carscadden was referred to Timothy Browne, MD, with MultiCare Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

“People often have the misconception that plastic surgery is the same as cosmetic surgery,” Dr. Browne says. “But breast reduction can provide symptom relief and can be a very gratifying surgery for that reason.”

In addition to Dr. Browne, Carscadden met with physician assistant Dan Brocksmith, who took measurements and discussed the process.

Carscadden says she knew what to expect because she has many family members who had reductions. But when she did have questions, both providers put her at ease and answered every one.

“Dr. Browne and Dan are top-notch awesome,” she says. “I’m not one who gets uncomfortable easily, but they both have a great sense of humor, which cuts any tension you might feel.”

Carscadden’s body healed quickly from surgery, and she says she only had minimal bleeding and bruising.

“My surgery went a lot better than my family members’ surgeries,” she says. “My sister who is closest in age to me had her reduction a few years ago and told me after my surgery I was going to have T. rex arms and wouldn’t be able to move. But the day after my surgery, I could move my arms in circles.”

Carscadden went down eight cup sizes — from J to C.

She no longer suffers from daily headaches, and her shoulder, neck and back pain is all gone.

“It’s lovely being free of all that pain,” Carscadden explains. “I would go to bed every night with a headache. I have only had two headaches in six months since surgery, and both were related to my sinuses.”

Although she says she still needs to work on her posture, it has improved a great deal since surgery.

“With all that weight on my chest, the natural response was for my shoulders to curve forward and slouch,” Carscadden says. “I no longer feel the automatic need to sit like that.”

And another benefit?

“I’m finally able to shop for a bra that’s pretty,” she adds.