In 2002, like many 20-somethings with tiny breasts I got breast implants. Since then, minor health occurrences occurred but I never connected the dots until I found a FB page called, "Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation and Education With Christina". There are many FB support groups out there but not all are safe (feel free to message me if you are going down this road, some pages are sponsored). Anyhow, I consulted with 5 surgeons, 3 in Portland and 2 nationally that were "the best of the best". After all of my research, Dr. Lee was still at the top of the list and local, so I went with him. He was SO PATIENT with me. At my second consult (yes, I made him consult with me twice b/c I had so many questions), he even suggested that maybe he couldn't meet my expectations (I'm in healthcare, so I know that sometimes patients want perfection and it's not always attainable). I proceeded to elaborate that I was only sharing my preferences and expectations "just in case" there were aesthetic options during the surgery... that I wanted him to know what I liked but that I knew he would do well no matter what (just the OCD in me). He agreed to do the surgery. This was very telling to me that he is not motivated by money, but by outcome. I was an AA 20 years ago before implants, C-D after implants, breastfed 2 boys. He recommended an explant/lift and did a full capsule removal (also he clarified what "en bloc" vs. "capsulectomy" is and basically (and I am in healthcare so I know how to discern the information) if all of the scar tissue is removed, that's paramount, and he absolutely does this!). I was sure I'd be skin and nipples and he didn't over promise anything but said he would do his very very best to give me symmetry. You can decide for yourself after seeing the pictures. Personally, regarding bedside manner and skill, he is the best in the nation. I have another friend who explanted/lifted with him as well and she has results just as beautiful. He has a gentle and engaged bedside manner, he listens and he cares. I truly couldn't say more about this surgeon.
Updated on 3 Apr 2022:
Hey all! Sharing a quick photo I just took since you all have been asking! I will add more later! All is well! I am doing myofascial release with a great local physical therapist as well to keep from any scar tissue or adhesions forming to thick etc. LOVING my itty bitties! I have a 2 month post op apt in May and will update again then!
Updated on 25 Jul 2022:
Here are my update pics. I know how scary and hard it is to decide to explant, what you might end up with, it's scary. My biggest recommendation, get a lift if it's been 20+ years and you've also breastfed babies AND find a myofacial release therapist for post surgery. My result is better than most b/c I got a lift AND one of my good friends from college is a doctor of myofacial release (Doctor of physical therapy, happy to share her info if you are in Portland) and has released fascia (adhesions, where the tissue adheres to the body and causes "indents") 2 and 5 months post surgery with her body work. It's all worth it ladies, it's a work in progress. I feel like me. Close to perfect, but I was never perfect even with implants. THESE imperfections I love, because they are me.
Updated on 26 Nov 2022:
It's been 10 months and I still have no regrets. Every time I look in the mirror I love my itty bitties. I feel more athletic and healthy and really just prefer the look of a flatter chest than big breasts. My right breast still has a small adhesion that I have been bad about massaging or seeing my myofascial therapist about. For some reason I am just not worried about it. Someone asked if muscles were under the muscle and yes, they were.