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When Less Is More: The Complete Guide for Women Considering Breast Reduction Surgery
If you have ever thought that your breasts are too big, this book is for you. Do you suffer from chronic back and neck pain? Do you struggle to sit up straight? What about frequent headaches or hand numbness? Disabling muscle and joint pain, discolored shoulder grooves from your bra straps, and rashes under your breasts are just some of the symptoms caused by heavy breasts. Many large-breasted women also suffer psychologically from poor body image and unwanted sexual attention. Sound familiar? If so, When Less Is More will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about a procedure that can transform your life. Breast reduction is among the top ten most commonly performed major plastic surgical procedures, as common as facelift surgery. Most women experience dramatic symptom relief and emotional benefits after the procedure. In fact, the vast majority of women who have breast reduction surgery would have it again or recommend it to a friend. Even celebrities are speaking out about their breast reductions and the life-changing benefits they have experienced as a result. However, making the decision to have surgery can be difficult, and most women consider it for years before taking action. Unfortunately, despite the media attention and increasing frequency of the procedure, there is an alarming lack of accurate information regarding the surgery and its indications. Many doctors still recommend weight loss as an effective way to reduce breast size without scientific evidence to support this approach. Insurance companies often further confuse and complicate matters by using strict, one-size-fits-all guidelines to determine coverage eligibility. When Less Is More offers much-needed help for women suffering with large breasts by providing reliable information to help them answer critical Will the surgery help me?
Are there alternatives to surgery?
How do I find a good doctor?
Will my insurance pay for the surgery? It also includes immediate steps you can take to help relieve pain, such as finding a well-fitting bra, and features a fully illustrated physical therapy program. To help you face surgery with confidence, Dr. Snodgrass also discusses many details that doctors don’t have time to tell you. You may be a teenager trying to hide your breast size, a corporate executive, a stay-at-home mom, or a grandmother with deep grooves in your shoulders from your bra straps. Whoever you are or whatever your circumstances, the bottom line is you want to look and feel better. Breast reduction is one of the most effective surgeries available to help you do that, and When Less Is More gives you the essential information you need.
Are there alternatives to surgery?
How do I find a good doctor?
Will my insurance pay for the surgery? It also includes immediate steps you can take to help relieve pain, such as finding a well-fitting bra, and features a fully illustrated physical therapy program. To help you face surgery with confidence, Dr. Snodgrass also discusses many details that doctors don’t have time to tell you. You may be a teenager trying to hide your breast size, a corporate executive, a stay-at-home mom, or a grandmother with deep grooves in your shoulders from your bra straps. Whoever you are or whatever your circumstances, the bottom line is you want to look and feel better. Breast reduction is one of the most effective surgeries available to help you do that, and When Less Is More gives you the essential information you need.
- GenresNonfictionHealth
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
7 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 25, 2019
There isn’t much material out there especially in a printed book format for anyone contemplating this elective yet often medically necessary surgery. Sure, there are many websites that may give you the answers you seek, but often times it can be hard to remember that you may just be viewing a slick marketing campaign rather than objective and sound medical information. Although published in 2005, this book still has plenty of relevant information to guide you in the decision making process.
The contents are complete and cover everything you need and want to know about the procedure itself. There will be a few things that can’t be adequately covered in generalized text, but those questions can and should be answered at an individual consultation with your potential surgeon. The one negative I found was the lack of before and after pictures. I understand each case is unique and pictures can only say so much, but pictures can help provide a frame of reference and lead to clearer expectations. Of course, your own results will be dependent on your goals and expectations, your communication with your surgeon, and your precise medical state but pictures can help one visualize the possible outcome and prepare for a drastically different appearance.
I strongly recommend this book as a companion to any websites you may be exploring as it’s nicely laid out in a chronological format and covers everything from before the choice to have the surgery to recovery after the fact. Many websites have some of the information but not all and not always as well laid out. It’s easy to get distracted by a website’s visually appealing presentation and key information is often missed in the eagerness to click on the next tab. The book seems drab compared to flashy websites but that’s exactly what you need when contemplating health and wellness decisions. Use this resource to gather the facts, formulate your questions, and make an informed choice about both the surgery and the surgeon.
The contents are complete and cover everything you need and want to know about the procedure itself. There will be a few things that can’t be adequately covered in generalized text, but those questions can and should be answered at an individual consultation with your potential surgeon. The one negative I found was the lack of before and after pictures. I understand each case is unique and pictures can only say so much, but pictures can help provide a frame of reference and lead to clearer expectations. Of course, your own results will be dependent on your goals and expectations, your communication with your surgeon, and your precise medical state but pictures can help one visualize the possible outcome and prepare for a drastically different appearance.
I strongly recommend this book as a companion to any websites you may be exploring as it’s nicely laid out in a chronological format and covers everything from before the choice to have the surgery to recovery after the fact. Many websites have some of the information but not all and not always as well laid out. It’s easy to get distracted by a website’s visually appealing presentation and key information is often missed in the eagerness to click on the next tab. The book seems drab compared to flashy websites but that’s exactly what you need when contemplating health and wellness decisions. Use this resource to gather the facts, formulate your questions, and make an informed choice about both the surgery and the surgeon.
May 10, 2017
A very good book for those who are considering breast reduction surgery. It goes over a lot of information, but is very friendly to those who don't have a medical degree (i.e. you can read this without going "what does that mean?" every five minutes with medical terminology). My only wish is that it went over more about the risk for scars. I know it's a very common concern for breast reduction surgery. I got this book about a month before I got my own reduction (my reduction was on May 8th 2017) and I found it to be a very good summary of what all happened.
February 12, 2008
This book I pick up and read again every time I get tension headaches, neck pain, or just social anxiety about the size and weight of my breasts. I wear a size 32G now (that's DDDD) and have had emotional problems with my large breasts since they came in around 6th grade. The physiological side effects didn't really start manifesting until college, when I got awful migrane headaches. Whenever I feel trapped by these balls on a chain around my neck, I pick up this book. It taught me I'm not alone, there might be a way out for me someday, if I can just go about it right. It's so complicated with the psychological, the physiological, the financial problems. This book is a wonderful guide. Plus it even offers non-surgical routes to feeling better in case you're still a little squeamish.
December 22, 2022
When Less Is More: The Complete Guide for Women Considering Breast Reduction Surgery
by Bethanne Snodgrass
<3 This was so well done. It covered everything from the consultation to after care. I only wish the NYPL had an audiobook edition.
If you have ever thought that your breasts are too big, this book is for you. Do you suffer from chronic back and neck pain? Do you struggle to sit up straight? What about frequent headaches or hand numbness? Disabling muscle and joint pain, discolored shoulder grooves from your bra straps, and rashes under your breasts are just some of the symptoms caused by heavy breasts. Many large-breasted women also suffer psychologically from poor body image and unwanted sexual attention. Sound familiar? If so, When Less Is More will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about a procedure that can transform your life.
Breast reduction is among the top ten most commonly performed major plastic surgical procedures, as common as facelift surgery. Most women experience dramatic symptom relief and emotional benefits after the procedure. In fact, the vast majority of women who have breast reduction surgery would have it again or recommend it to a friend. Even celebrities are speaking out about their breast reductions and the life-changing benefits they have experienced as a result. However, making the decision to have surgery can be difficult, and most women consider it for years before taking action.
Unfortunately, despite the media attention and increasing frequency of the procedure, there is an alarming lack of accurate information regarding the surgery and its indications. Many doctors still recommend weight loss as an effective way to reduce breast size without scientific evidence to support this approach. Insurance companies often further confuse and complicate matters by using strict, one-size-fits-all guidelines to determine coverage eligibility.
When Less Is More offers much-needed help for women suffering with large breasts by providing reliable information to help them answer critical questions:Will the surgery help me?
Are there alternatives to surgery?
How do I find a good doctor?
Will my insurance pay for the surgery?
It also includes immediate steps you can take to help relieve pain, such as finding a well-fitting bra, and features a fully illustrated physical therapy program. To help you face surgery with confidence, Dr. Snodgrass also discusses many details that doctors don't have time to tell you.
You may be a teenager trying to hide your breast size, a corporate executive, a stay-at-home mom, or a grandmother with deep grooves in your shoulders from your bra straps. Whoever you are or whatever your circumstances, the bottom line is you want to look and feel better. Breast reduction is one of the most effective surgeries available to help you do that, and When Less Is More gives you the essential information you need.
by Bethanne Snodgrass
<3 This was so well done. It covered everything from the consultation to after care. I only wish the NYPL had an audiobook edition.
If you have ever thought that your breasts are too big, this book is for you. Do you suffer from chronic back and neck pain? Do you struggle to sit up straight? What about frequent headaches or hand numbness? Disabling muscle and joint pain, discolored shoulder grooves from your bra straps, and rashes under your breasts are just some of the symptoms caused by heavy breasts. Many large-breasted women also suffer psychologically from poor body image and unwanted sexual attention. Sound familiar? If so, When Less Is More will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about a procedure that can transform your life.
Breast reduction is among the top ten most commonly performed major plastic surgical procedures, as common as facelift surgery. Most women experience dramatic symptom relief and emotional benefits after the procedure. In fact, the vast majority of women who have breast reduction surgery would have it again or recommend it to a friend. Even celebrities are speaking out about their breast reductions and the life-changing benefits they have experienced as a result. However, making the decision to have surgery can be difficult, and most women consider it for years before taking action.
Unfortunately, despite the media attention and increasing frequency of the procedure, there is an alarming lack of accurate information regarding the surgery and its indications. Many doctors still recommend weight loss as an effective way to reduce breast size without scientific evidence to support this approach. Insurance companies often further confuse and complicate matters by using strict, one-size-fits-all guidelines to determine coverage eligibility.
When Less Is More offers much-needed help for women suffering with large breasts by providing reliable information to help them answer critical questions:Will the surgery help me?
Are there alternatives to surgery?
How do I find a good doctor?
Will my insurance pay for the surgery?
It also includes immediate steps you can take to help relieve pain, such as finding a well-fitting bra, and features a fully illustrated physical therapy program. To help you face surgery with confidence, Dr. Snodgrass also discusses many details that doctors don't have time to tell you.
You may be a teenager trying to hide your breast size, a corporate executive, a stay-at-home mom, or a grandmother with deep grooves in your shoulders from your bra straps. Whoever you are or whatever your circumstances, the bottom line is you want to look and feel better. Breast reduction is one of the most effective surgeries available to help you do that, and When Less Is More gives you the essential information you need.
January 23, 2024
I picked up this book before I had my reduction surgery back in 2021.
Although it covers the American healthcare system and walks you through a step by step process about reductions and although the "insurance" portion is different for us here in Canada, the rest is pretty routine with how my reduction went at least.
I still did find it useful in information before my own reduction surgery and it did help give me a better picture as to what to expect throughout the covery. I do wish it went over a bit more about scar tissue and how to fade them but learned that information through nursing school.
over all if you are planning on getting a reduction and looking for some printed material (as they are few and far between) this is a pretty decent and informational read.
Although it covers the American healthcare system and walks you through a step by step process about reductions and although the "insurance" portion is different for us here in Canada, the rest is pretty routine with how my reduction went at least.
I still did find it useful in information before my own reduction surgery and it did help give me a better picture as to what to expect throughout the covery. I do wish it went over a bit more about scar tissue and how to fade them but learned that information through nursing school.
over all if you are planning on getting a reduction and looking for some printed material (as they are few and far between) this is a pretty decent and informational read.
April 17, 2019
really helpful - breaks everything down into really simple terms.
July 28, 2015
I am scheduled for a breast reduction next month. Even though I’ve already had a couple of appointments with my plastic surgeon and I had pestered him with a battery of questions I thought that I could do some extra research about BR surgery at home. I consider that it is primordial to be an informed patient and to have realistic expectations about the surgery you are getting done. Please note that I am not saying that this book can replace your surgeon’s advice. My suggestion is: read it but AFTER visiting your surgeon.
I am really grateful for Dr. Snodgrass writing this book, in which all the process –pre-op preparations, surgery and post-op recovery are described in detail and in layman’s terms. Besides, this is the only book that I have been able to find that only deals with BR as both a medical and aesthetic issue. The majority of books I've come across concentrate on either implants, mastopexy and surgery related to breast cancer or plastic surgery in general terms, and there are a few pages devoted to the BR procedure. This handbook is divided into clear-cut chapters, which makes it really easy to read, re-read a particular point or fragment.
However, I would have liked and appreciated an extended explanation on general anaesthesia, both on the positive and the negative side. In such a detailed book only half page is devoted to the anaesthesia given during the procedure, which is the main concern of most patients -including me.
To be honest, I must admit that I flickered through chapters 4 and 5 because they focus on insurance covering and how to get a good surgeon (in the US). Since I am going to undergo my surgery in Spain this held no interest for me.
It's a pity that this book has not been translated into Spanish yet, because I’d like my future caretakers to read it and their command of English will not be enough to follow the book from beginning to end. Maybe I’ll do that myself, who knows.
I am really grateful for Dr. Snodgrass writing this book, in which all the process –pre-op preparations, surgery and post-op recovery are described in detail and in layman’s terms. Besides, this is the only book that I have been able to find that only deals with BR as both a medical and aesthetic issue. The majority of books I've come across concentrate on either implants, mastopexy and surgery related to breast cancer or plastic surgery in general terms, and there are a few pages devoted to the BR procedure. This handbook is divided into clear-cut chapters, which makes it really easy to read, re-read a particular point or fragment.
However, I would have liked and appreciated an extended explanation on general anaesthesia, both on the positive and the negative side. In such a detailed book only half page is devoted to the anaesthesia given during the procedure, which is the main concern of most patients -including me.
To be honest, I must admit that I flickered through chapters 4 and 5 because they focus on insurance covering and how to get a good surgeon (in the US). Since I am going to undergo my surgery in Spain this held no interest for me.
It's a pity that this book has not been translated into Spanish yet, because I’d like my future caretakers to read it and their command of English will not be enough to follow the book from beginning to end. Maybe I’ll do that myself, who knows.
February 15, 2013
This is an excellent book. I am so very glad that Dr. Snodgrass decided to write it. She is thorough in approaching almost everything having to do with breast reduction, and she brings up things that only a surgeon could anticipate and wish that every patient or potential patient knew. If you are contemplating this type of surgery, I definitely recommend this book to you.
So, why not five stars? Because there is one missing chapter. The chapter on when breast reduction is done as the method to remove disease from the breast. She talks briefly about cancer and breast reduction, but she doesn't say much about it. Since I am in the position that I will be having growths removed and receiving some reduction as part of the technique, etc., I wanted her to give me a whole chapter about this. I wanted someone to really go in and explain it to me and tell me how it often went or what the considerations were. But for whatever reason, this wasn't part of the scope of the book.
I am grateful for the book (and for the beautiful cover). It has been a big part of preparing me for surgery.
So, why not five stars? Because there is one missing chapter. The chapter on when breast reduction is done as the method to remove disease from the breast. She talks briefly about cancer and breast reduction, but she doesn't say much about it. Since I am in the position that I will be having growths removed and receiving some reduction as part of the technique, etc., I wanted her to give me a whole chapter about this. I wanted someone to really go in and explain it to me and tell me how it often went or what the considerations were. But for whatever reason, this wasn't part of the scope of the book.
I am grateful for the book (and for the beautiful cover). It has been a big part of preparing me for surgery.
March 17, 2014
Pretty pro-reduction, overall. I was looking for a more balanced approach/treatment of the topic. I wonder how true the statistics are that the vast majority of women who have this surgery are happy with it and wish they'd done it long ago. How much is self-confirmation bias, versus actual improved life quality? That said, very good info on the insurance aspects of getting the surgery covered. Pretty good primer on the topic, but I still have a lot of questions.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews