Bike fit is so important, I've heard that tall women can have just as much trouble getting a bike to fit as small women if they need a shorter tt.

It is good your asking questions, the more you know about your needs the better you can communicate your concerns in the LBS.

A one inch drop is a lot. I think the rule of thumb, ( I could be wrong about this) is 1 cm at a time. I made a 4 cm change in the rise of my handlebars and my body complained for about a month afterwards.

I know it sounds like a lot of money but paying a qualified fitter for a refit will save money in the long run.