Breast Reduction (New Zealand)

January 27, 2015 9:58 AM

I have been contemplating a breast reduction for some time and have now reached the point where I am certain I want to take actual steps toward doing so.

I was wondering if anyone has recently had this done in New Zealand and can provide some information about the process leading up to the actual procedure, aftercare and whether it is covered by government healthcare.

My reasons for wanting to have the reduction done is both physical and psychological, the former relating to shoulder and back problems, the latter related to how my current breast size impacts on how I see myself as a gay girl. If it matters, I am 39.

Anecdotes and personal experience welcome.

posted by anonymous to Health & Fitness (2 answers total)

The very very best thing I can tell you is: join the forum here. There is a wealth of accumulated knowledge there, and likely some NZ-specific information as well. It's also very helpful to see images (available only when you join and are verified, for obvs reasons), to think about how big or small you want to be, and what it might look like for you (bodies are so different!).
posted by Dashy at 10:59 AM on January 27, 2015 [2 favorites]

Have you been in touch with your doctor about the back and shoulder issues? A friend did this in NZ but she was able to produce documentation of a long history of medical/health/pain issues which helped with the healthcare coverage. I'd start with your doctor and go from there. Ask around to friends and family, if possible, as they might have recommendations for good doctors who are willing to work with you on this issue. Even if you haven't been in touch with a doctor about it, start now, and start creating the paper trail that will help you down the road.

If you want something closer to top surgery it might be a bit harder to get standard healthcare coverage, though I'm not entirely sure of the situation in NZ. If that is the case, maybe try googling trans guys in NZ to see if they have any specific suggestions - lots of young trans guys have vlogs, youtube channels, and Tumblrs and many make themselves available for questions about top surgery.
posted by barnone at 2:03 PM on January 27, 2015