For women that are well-endowed up top, it sometimes seems ludicrous to think of reducing what is perceived as a gift from God: a full bosom. However, I was genetically handpicked to be part of the big titty committee while in puberty, getting fit for my first big girl bra at a C-cup, and reaching an H-cup in adulthood.
Yes, you read that right, and that cup size is beyond a DDD and GG! So I can attest that it didn't make it less heavy just because I carried the load well. After many attempts to naturally reduce my breast size by exercising, eating healthy, and spending a lot of money on high-quality bras that lifted my breasts and minimized their massive appearance, I felt tired.
I was tired of wearing the same shirt as a person with a moderate breast size but being perceived as “sexually suggestive” because of my unintentional overflowing cleavage. I was tired of wearing two bras to enjoy a workout without bouncing all over the place while straining my shoulders. I was exhausted from putting in much work to lose weight and still appeared heavier than I was because of my breast size.
I can go on and on, but I am not a breast preacher, just merely a woman who understood that the growth and appearance of my breasts naturally was not something I could control. However, the appearance, size, and shape of my breasts were something that I could take steps to change with assistance.
My Breast Reduction Journey
Google was my worst enemy at first, with the image search giving my skeptical brain too many images of before and after results without much context and respect for the fact that the world of surgery is constantly moving forward. Someone's results and experiences from 2010 aren’t necessarily reflective of surgeons' access to the techniques and technology of today. After a recommendation from my mom, I made an account on RealSelf, an excellent resource for people interested in getting unbiased information on cosmetic procedures.
This tool was most helpful because I could see unpaid and honest reviews and experiences from real people in real-time who shared the good, the bad, and the ugly of their breast reduction journey. Most importantly, the site gave me the contact information of doctors in my area with great reviews allowing me to book a real-life consultation and have the whole process explained to me by a medical professional.
This step was crucial because, as they say, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” So I printed out a "wish pic" of perky boobies and headed to the surgeon's office. The consultation was free and my surgeon was fantastic and informative.
What To Know About Getting a Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery can be a medically necessary surgery. Whether it is or not depends on factors like the pain experienced, the length of the breast tissue, and the height of the person interested. In my case, I was diagnosed with breast hypertrophy, which is just the overgrowth of breast tissue caused by many factors like hormones and genetics.
When measuring for a breast reduction, it's hard for a doctor to reduce you to a specific cup size. This is because they are more concerned about the weight and length of your breasts than a clothing measurement. It is essential to advocate for how you want your breasts to look in proportion to the rest of your body. “Wish pictures” help further illustrate your desired aesthetic. In my case, I loved having full breasts but did not like how they kept growing vertically. I desired for them to naturally look the way they would in a bra without me having to wear one.
Telling them this resulted in the surgeon removing around 2-3 pounds of breast tissue, decreasing the weight and volume of my breasts while keeping the roundness and fullness. Before the procedure, when I measured my breasts from my collarbone to my nipple, it was 14 inches. After surgery, there were 10 inches. That was a vast improvement aesthetically and also felt terrific physically.
A breast reduction automatically includes a breast lift. The lifting portion was fun for me because the surgeon and I collaborated on determining factors such as the size of my areolas and the placement of my nipples. My nipples naturally being toward the very bottom of my breasts made it so that they weren't pleasurably sensitive and did not present well without my bra on. It turns out that lifting the nipple more towards the center of my breasts drastically improved their appearance and reinforced my overall satisfaction over the years with my decision to pursue surgery regardless of real-life factors like weight fluctuation.
Because of the lift, when I look in the mirror, my nipples sit high and say 'hello' back, giving them a perky appearance that I didn't have otherwise. My bras fit way better because now my breasts are more centered, and the straps do not have to lift up a lot of weight. Though cosmetic surgery is not a fairytale, there is something about a surgeon being able to mark up your breasts the day before surgery as if they are drawing breasts on you that you only dreamed about and then waking up from anesthesia to see those measurements are a reality. Yes, my boobies and I screamed, "I woke up like this?!"
If deemed medically necessary, the surgery can be covered by your insurance. This part is a money saver. In this rare case, you’ll see the intersection between a cosmetic and medically necessary procedure. Some insurance plans require you to see your primary care physician or OBGYN for a referral to approve the surgery. Others allow the surgeon to examine your breast, diagnose the issue, and send in the information needed to support the procedure.
It’s best that you call your insurance company and ask about breast reduction coverage so that they can inform you of their requirements for approval, along with how much you will have to pay out of pocket if anything
My Breast Reduction Recovery & Final Thoughts
My only regret about this procedure is that I didn't do it sooner. After surgery, real life hit me. I had to make sure I was prepared for permanent (but minimal) scarring, and post-surgery healing complications, and most of all, I had to keep realistic expectations. I quickly grew accustomed to my breasts' perky silicone implant-like appearance in the first months after surgery. Still, the breast tissues settle and position themselves more naturally after months and years.
My breasts naturally and subtly grow when I gain weight; they naturally decrease in size when I lose weight. The benefit is that they are smaller and in a better position than they would have been without surgery. In many ways, this decision allowed me to live my teenaged-dream by enjoying T-shirts without bras and without looking "disheveled" when lounging. I get to appreciate how my ta-tas look in pajamas, lingerie, and other clothes without feeling overly exposed, self-conscious, and having to adjust my shirt a dozen times.
My decision was one of self-love and self-care. If you are considering this life-changing operation, book your consultation to see how the surgery could positively impact your life too!
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- Ayesha Curry Regrets Getting Implants In The Past: “They Weren’t Good For Me” ›
- Kandi Burruss Opens Up About Plastic Surgery And Recent Breast Reduction ›
- I've Lost 100 Pounds & Still Have Issues With Body Image ›
New Jersey native creating a life that she loves while living in gratitude. She loves using beauty, and fashion to create a balanced lifestyle while prioritizing wellness. A devoted fur mom, and a full-time lover of laughter. She is out for revenge against the darkness by being light, taking her own advice, traveling the world, and letting you know that you are so lit! Connect with her via IG @iamzaniah and please visit Zaniahsworld.com
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Ananda Lewis Clarifies Why She Didn't Get A Mastectomy & Says She's Doing 'Better' After Stage IV Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis received a lot of backlash from online critics after sharing she decided to forgo a double mastectomy. But there's more to the story.
Ananda was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in 2019, and during a recent round table discussion with CNN's Stephanie Elam and Sara Sidner, she revealed that she decided not to get a double mastectomy and, now, she has stage IV cancer.
Following that interview, she clarified why she did not get the surgery. “The circumstances were not conducive to surgery because my tumor wasn’t aggressively growing at the time, and then COVID hit,” Ananda told The Epoch Times.
She opted for a cryoablation treatment instead, which uses extreme cold to destroy the cancer cells.
Another thing the 51-year-old wanted to clarify was whether she was dying. She said she is not. “Nothing happened. Today, I am fantastic. I may have felt like I was dying in February, but I’m not dying, and I’m definitely doing better than I was last October,” she said.
She is focused on taking care of herself and getting a "good 20 more years out of this body." She follows a keto diet and avoids alcohol, white flour and white sugar.
During the CNN roundtable discussion, the mother of one shared that she had an integrative approach to her treatment, which included traditional medicine and homeopathy methods such as red light therapy.
“My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body. I felt like my body is intelligent, I know that to be true. Our bodies are brilliantly made,” she said.
“I decided to keep my tumor and try to work it out of my body a different way,” she continued. “Looking back on that, I go, ‘You know what? Maybe I should have.’
Ananda also admitted that she wasn't prioritizing early detection, such as getting mammograms. The former talk show host's mom also had breast cancer and chose to go the conventional route, which influenced her to go a non-traditional route.
As a content creator, Ananda uses her social media to inform others on the things she's learned about obtaining good health such as toxic items to through out of your pantry and the many benefits of water.
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