Breast Implants: Stories

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Think Twice - Madison, CT

  • Not Worth It
  • Cost: $4,700
  • Madison, CT

I had sub glandular saline breast implants put in...

I had sub glandular saline breast implants put in at age 23. I had always been small breasted (36A) and thought it would be a great boost to my figure and self esteem.

The Dr assured me that implants were safe and wonderful. I asked to be made a B cup, and during the 'try on' in the office, it seemed about 250-300cc would work, but the Dr explained that he would choose the actual implant size on surgery day.

Surgery went according to plan and was uneventful. I came to find out after surgery that the Dr implanted me with 360cc saline implants 'overfilled' to 400cc. I ended up a very full C cup. I was reassured that going bigger was for my best interests, as going too small would result in me being unhappy and having a repeat surgery to go bigger. I've now come to find out this is extremely common - and in reading women's profiles I know I am not the only one who was implanted larger than planned. Male PS opinions of what is 'proportionate' seems to differ from what actually IS proportionate.

I eventually got used to the size, but had not envisioned being a large-busted woman. I had BIG boobs. I found that instead of raising my self esteem and improving my figure, I was now top-heavy and eliciting very uncomfortable STARING from men. I started dressing in layers and slouching to hide my huge boobs.

I haven't been able to hug anyone properly with these hard balls in my body for 12 years now. I haven't been able to sleep on my stomach. It makes working out and running awkward - and as someone who is very fit with a relatively low body fat % I realize it looks FREAKISH. Breasts are mainly made up of FAT in nature, so very fit women have small breasts. I watched the Olympics and saw not 1 pair of giant bouncing titties. I'm not a porn star, and don't want to look like one. WTF have I done to myself? My fake boobs DO NOT match the rest of my physique and are NOT in proportion to nature for my level of fitness.

At age 28 I got pregnant and gave birth to my first child. During pregnancy, and then breast feeding, my breasts literally quadrupled in size. I went from a 36C to an immeasurable size (I estimate EE). They were huge, heavy, painful and hard as rocks. The hard, overfilled saline implants under the breast tissue made breastfeeding more difficult (baby couldnt get as good of suction as they can with squishy real breast tissue) and I believe more painful. As an immature 23 year old, I did not know that womens breasts keep developing through their mid-20s, and change radically during pregnancy.

After having my children, and even after losing my post-baby weight, I settled back to a 36D. So, now I have even huger boobs, and lots of nice loose floppy skin. Another great development is that I have now developed Capsular Contracture in my L boob... The implant is compressing so that the diameter of the L boob is a lot smaller than the R and it sits about 2 inches higher on my chest. I look like a freak, and I'm in pain from the contracture.

Now my only options are thus:

1. Revision implants with much larger implants to fill the loose skin (probably end up at least DD). They will also probably want to implant under the muscle this time, which will involve peeling my pectorals off my rib cage, and cutting the muscle attachments at the sternum - lovely. Of course, since I now have CC my chances of redeveloping CC are much higher. So, maybe I can spend $6k just to have deformed CC breast all over again. And have my pectoral muscles assaulted. And have even freakishly huger boobs. Sounds great. (not)

2. Some sort of lift - with all those extra nice scars and probably loss of sensation. Seeing as I did not have much breast tissue to begin with, I can basically pay $10k to have tiny titties again, but scarred up numb tiny titties. Sounds great. (not)

3. I can have a removal (explant) without replacement. Basically I can pay $4-7k to have these wretched saline water balloons removed, and just let my poor war-torn boobs settle into whatever state they are left in... Which is certainly a worse state than had I left them alone.

I am going to do #3 - explant. I wish I had just left them alone. There was nothing WRONG with my Pre-implant natural boobs. They were just 'small' which was to be totally expected since I'm an athlete and am not fat. They were cute. After kids, if my breasts continued to develop and went up a cup (as they did) I would have ended with a moderate B cup. I certainly wouldn't have ended up with Capsular Contracture, and the impossible-to-avoid surgery that I face now. And I would have saved myself $10-15k, scars, pain, anguish, shame, unwanted negative 'big boob' attention. I could have occasionally lay on my stomach. My runs ad weight lifting would have been less uncomfortable. I could have hugged people I love tightly for all these years without boulders between us.

WTF did I do to myself? Any girls on here interested in Implants, please check out explant (removal) reviews. I am not alone. SO MANY women with implants end up hating them, having problems, and repeat surgeries. If it isn't broken, consider not 'fixing' them. I wish I had just fixed my own self image instead of trying to 'fix' my boobs. There was NOTHING wrong with my boobs. They were cute. NOW, because of implants, there is a lot wrong with my boobs that ONLY surgery can fix - and cant really fix anyway. I kick myself in the ass for doing this to my body.

I've been hesitating posting pics, but I'm posting...

I've been hesitating posting pics, but I'm posting these specifically for NervousGirlie. I'm trying to find photos of my pre-op boobs, and also my post-op boobs before pregnancy. I'll update pics again when I do.

Well ladies, I had a mammogram and ultrasound...

Well ladies, I had a mammogram and ultrasound today. My Left boob, which had the mastitis during breast feeding, and which now has capsular contracture, also has a 2cm lump under the areola. Before doing any consultations for explantation, I had to determine exactly what Im dealing with.

Well, the mammogram wasn't easy, because my implants were in the way (duh). They can't flatten the breast out as much, have to take several additional X-rays, and don't end up with as clear of a view. But, after the mammogram and ultrasound, they were able to say its not a fluid cyst - it is a solid mass. However, they are about 99% sure it's not cancer, it is fibroadenoma, BUT they don't want to send me for a core needle biopsy to confirm that due to the tumor being on the implant, as they say it would be putting the implant at unnecessary risk of puncture, and they can monitor the fibroadenoma through manual breast exams and diagnostic imaging. They advised me to do the conservative 'wait and see' approach, by repeating mammograms every 6 months for 2 years to confirm it is not growing and changing (and thus is in fact a fibroadenoma). Well, I told the radiologist that Im wanting to explant, and he says if the implants are going to come out, i could do the core needle biopsy without them worrying they would pop my implant, and I wont have to get so many mammograms. But I also asked can I just get an excisional biopsy (where they remove the whole tumor under general anesthesia) at the same time as explant, and the radiologist thought it was a great idea, since I'll already be under, numbed, and in the operating room with a breast surgeon anyway. Also, with excision the whole tumor comes out. With needle biopsy whether it tests fibroadenoma or cancer the tumor is still in there, not removed. I'm cleared by the radiologist to seek a Plastic Surgeon who will remove the implants and (hopefully at the same time) remove the probably-fibroadenoma lump. So, the implant story has come full circle for me. The implants that I hate have dealt their final blow by interfering with my Breast Cancer screening, mammogram and testing of this tumor. The implants did not cause the tumor - but they are interfering with yet another extremely important aspect of my life. I'm so beyond ready to get rid of these things. I consider this the final chapter of my implant review. I'll be moving over to explantation reviews now to document that process. My love to all the ladies here whether natural, implant or explant. I wish you all happy, healthy boobies. Xoxoxo -- StillHateMyImplantsInOR

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Comments (70)

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tiny titted songbirdie 29 Apr 2013
I love what you wrote Sovran. I agree, when we were young and fit somehow we still felt inadequite. So many of us got implants for the same reasons. I am almost 3 months post and I feel better everyday. I can't even believe that I ever had implants. I feel like a hippie earth chick. haha. Big Hug. Birdie
vannatoo 27 Apr 2013
Hi. I am going to tell you my story and what I found out from other woman at the diagnostic center where I went to have my tests done for cancer. I felt a little lump in my left breast about 5 years ago. I went to the doctor, he felt it and said it was fibroadenoma and that it would grow bigger and at some point I would have to take it out. So it did grow bigger and thinking that it was nothing serious I just left it there and postpoining taking it out. The doctor felt it again next time I went to him for my pap smear exam and still said the same thing. That was maybe a year later, I do not remember exactly. The lump was moveable and its shape did not worry the doctors. It grew more in maybe 3-4 years and went to my plastic surgeon who is also an ongologist in order to take it out. He asked me to have a mamogram done and an ultra sound. I did and took the result to him to read it. He did not say anything to me except that it needed to be taken out as soon as possible and he arranged the surgery in the next 4 days. I had to pay 750euros and since I thought it was nothing serious I cancelled the surgery thinking I would find a state hospital where I wouldn't have to pay. I took my time trying to find a good doctor at a state hospital. Almost a year and a half had past and the lump had become bigger and changed in shape and also I could feel another little one next to my nipple. I was thinking about getting implants for about 10 years and since I was going under anestesia for the lump I decided to have the implants in at the same time. I would not trust any other doctor for the implants though so I went to my plastic surgeon have both things done. Well, a week after the surgery I was told I had breast cancer. Needless to say I had another mamogram before the surgery and the description of the lump did not indicate that it was malignant, just that further testing had to be done because of the density of the tissue. I had an ultra sound next day and the doctor said he could find out if it was malignant or not. He said it was fibroadenoma. I had second degree cancer and the exams were all negative for malignacy. Another woman told me she had a lump for about 10 years and they had told her that if she wanted to take it out it would be fine and if she didn't it was fine too. Hers wasn't as big as mine but when she took it out she had second degree cancer. The size does not indicate how progressed the cancer is. I have also read after researching about breast cancer that you do not have to relay on the shape of it or if it is moveable and looks innocent, it can be cancerous as well. Just take this lump out and do not relay on exams, only biopsy can show what it is. My first cousin who lived in Canada had mamograms every year and at the age of 47 she felt a lump. She had had a mamogram done 4 months prior to feeling the lump and the mamogram did not show anything. She died 1 year later because she was diagnosed with advanced cancer. So many examples say do not trust any doctor telling you whatever or any exam except the biopsy. I do not want to scare you, just to inform you. The other thing is that doctors put bigger implants than the woman's chest can take and they end up having complications later on. Don't they know that they would get very big during pregnacy? They only see this as big money, they do not care about the individual and what might happen to the woman in the future. The best time to do the implants is after you are done with breastfeeding. My breasts unfortunately did not get bigger, they dissappeared after breastfeeding 2 children and losing all the weight I had gained. I went with 175cc though which is very unlikely to give complications comparing to big ones. I am so sorry about this happening to you. I wish you the best. Today is my birthday, I am 49 years old. Yes, I know I am vain to decide to have implants at such age but I look much younger than my age and I feel so good with my implants. I thank God every day that I got to keep my breast. Good luck to you. Write me back with your view on my comment.
tiny titted songbirdie 23 Apr 2013
Sounds like you are more than ready to get the lump and the implants out. I totally agree with you that the implants are just a mask of a much deeper physcological problem. We all looked better without implants how can you improve on natural? Are you getting 2 surgen's at the same time or will the plastic surgen be able to remove the mass properly? Sending you possitive vibes for a safe and sucessful surgery. Much Love, Birdie
reed69 28 Feb 2013
Hi just read your profile quickly so may of missed the bit about explant date---do you have a date yet??? I was an a/AA before and ended up a full C and ready your story about not wanting to feel like a porn star and covering up---i was so nodding my head at my computer screen. You have a tiny bod and i am sure you will look more beautiful without them in xxx
LuvRealBoobsInOR 19 Mar 2013
I am explanted Reed! Thank you for posting your explant review, it was really helpful to me while I was deciding and then waiting to explant. I am on the other side, it is so much better now.
kac123 24 Feb 2013
I am also planning to remove my implants soon. I had two babies & breastfed both with implants. Five years ago, I got 425cc implants and soon after had my first baby (and my breasts became Huge, as you explained). Then I downsized to 325cc and had another baby. Now I have capsular contraction in my right breast. After all that, I am excited to explant! I look forward to hearing how your removal goes.
LuvRealBoobsInOR 19 Mar 2013
I am explanted! So happy, CC is no longer part of my life. It is like a weight has been lifted off my chest - literally! I will take my real, small, droopy boobs any day over implants.
reed69 19 Dec 2012
Hi just read your story--yes you have turned full circle. Do you have a date for explant yet? I will be following your story---many thanks for sharing it on this site. All the very best to you xxx
latte23 9 Dec 2012
Thanks for your review. I feel exactly like you and I've only had mine in for 6 months. I'm also looking to explant soon as I can which may not be until the summer months or possibly spring break. Good luck. Sent you a private message too!
Kooberry (RealFriend) 7 Dec 2012
Thanks for sharing your story hate. So sorry you are unhappy with the BA. I can't imagine spending thousands of dollars and despising the results. My heart goes out to you....GOD BLESS!!!
newmom87 7 Dec 2012
I'm glad you will be able to do everything at once that is a plus!
NoMoreDsplease 27 Nov 2012
Thanks for being so honest - women need to hear stories like ours in order to make wise decisions on BA's. I wish I had been able to read reviews like yours (and mine) before letting a doctor cut into my nipples. I was just too damn young and the internet wasn't around!!!
Health1st 25 Nov 2012
Hey at least you dont have to worry about ptosis ! that was funny one less thing to worry about,...
LuvRealBoobsInOR 25 Nov 2012
Thanks Health! I have not yet scheduled surgery. My timeline goal is to remove before my 36 birthday which is in April 2013. I will have consultations with 3 local PS right after the holidays, and then hope to get the first available surgery date when I have the right doctor.
babyangel 24 Nov 2012
First....I am so sorry to hear everything that you have gone thru. Thank you for posting and sharing all of this. I have been researching for a year now. I just can't seem to get off the fence. One day I am ready to sign the papers...the next day I read a story like yours. My husband is Great and always tells me, go with your heart. He loves me no matter what. Our sex is great and he does not stare at those that are blessed with nice boobs. I only want to go 300, which to me will look "normal". I am a small framed girl. I am 5'5" 112lbs. My bra size is a 36A which I do purchase from Victoria with the EXTRA padding. I truly don't even need a bra!! I have been teased by my parents and my son on being "FLAT". I hate it, it is hurtful and sometimes I think that is why I am so self concious. I know TMI, just thank you for sharing. Hugs! Angelbaby
LuvRealBoobsInOR 24 Nov 2012
Think it through. "Buying boobs" is not a one time decision, really consider the fact that they will need replacement every 10+/- years without any complications. If you are among the ~10% of women who are unlucky and get early CC, then repeat surgery may be soon to follow your initial implant. "Buying boobs" is not like being magically endowed with a bigger version of what you have with natural breasts - its more like buying a new car. You KNOW you will have many expenses, maintenance etc when you buy a car. You know that in 10 years, you will need to get a new car, as they don't last forever. Implants are exactly the same, they need maintenance and replacement no matter what. Personally, I cannot justify these long term costs and inevitable repeat surgeries. Somehow, in my mind when I got implants, I thought it would be no big deal. For some women, maybe their financial situation allows for the risks and replacement costs - mine does not. I'd rather take my family on a Hawaii vacation than buy new boobs. So, financially depending on your personal situation it may be this type of trade off. Please don't stand for teasing! Firmly tell people off if they objectify your body. How inappropriate would people consider you, if you were to ridicule your son or your father for having small penises?! It would not be tolerated, and you would be considered sick and cruel. Unfortunately our society accepts breasts to be a public topic to be commented on, and each of us women has a right and responsibility to reclaim our breasts as a personal and private topic that is NOT subject to public ridicule. Do NOT tolerate it, it is your body and breasts are such an intimate, amazing, life-giving blessing that women have. Especially your son, of all people, should not feel at liberty to tease you about the part of your body which God gave you to nourish his existence as an infant. For most of human history (before the availability of formula) only YOUR breasts as his mother would have allowed him to live during his first year of life. Have appreciation for your own precious body, and do not allow others to devalue you. All that being said, the decision is ultimately yours alone. If you truly feel like BA will improve your life, and you are realistic about the risks of complications, long term financial and surgical commitment - then go for it! I'm not one to judge what makes people happy in life. Mostly, I share my experience so that women can get a different perspective if realism - things I hadn't fully considered before BA and that I believe many women don't understand before taking this life-altering step. If someone is fully informed, and still wants BA it's wonderful that this option is available. It seems like you are doing your research and weighing all the possibilities, which is the best way to make your own decision. I wish you all the best.
Health1st 25 Nov 2012
Hi hmi, i agree breasts are SOOo overrated its not even funny! When are you scheduled for? Mine is in two weeks. Keep posting!
Health1st 25 Nov 2012
Babyangel, being 44 i seriously would not be getting implants... You are about to enter premenopause and is another whole deal in itself. If i were you i would not attemp to mess up what is not damaged. Be thankful with padding and carry on would be my advice... Dont get caught up in a midlife fantasy!!
babyangel 26 Nov 2012
Never thought about premenopause. I am actually beginning that stage now! Don't know how that would change things? Definitely not a midlife fantasy, I have wanted boobs since my teens. But, after reading all the problems that are associated with it, I am definitely thinking maybe not such a good idea. I love this site and am so happy that the girls are so willing to share.
LuvRealBoobsInOR 26 Nov 2012
I'm not sure if this is what Health meant, but if you get implants in the near future - say 45 yrs old, then you'd be due for a replacement at around age 55. Even if you push past the 'expiration date' and keep them for 15 years, then repeat surgery at age 60. If you do a replacement implant, then you are facing another replacement or explantation at 65-75 years old? Surgery & general anesthesia just gets riskier and riskier as you age, and also the body heals more slowly. Many of the explanters here who are post-menopause explant because round perky breasts no longer look age appropriate post-menopause on grandma, and they don't want to face surgery again in their 60s/70s++. But if you've dreamed of it forever, and can't live without BA, then certainly get them while you are still in your 40s so you can enjoy them for a while. Wish you all the best.
scrappy37 (RealFriend) 26 Nov 2012
Just wanted to say that I think most people dont replace their implants at 10 or even 15 years. Most people wait until there is an issue. Just didnt want you to think you HAVE to replace them all the time if there arent any issues. I know a few people who have had them longer than this timeframe and wont worry about replacement until there is an issue.
softgirl 26 Nov 2012
So life ends at 60? And 'grandmas' have no right to feel sexy and vibrant?
LuvRealBoobsInOR 27 Nov 2012
@scrappy - implants aren't lifetime devices. The older the implant, the more prone it is to rupture and CC. Sure, some women will keep them as long as possible - this still doesn't negate the fact that the implants degrade, the shells weaken, and their failure rate goes up each year. It also does not change the fact that the person with implants is aging each year as well, and being 60 or 70 years old even if you are "lucky" to still have your original 20 year old implants... That is not a good scenario, more like a ticking time bomb. And implants are just as bad (maybe worse) than natural breasts when it comes to the effects of skin stretching and gravity. 10, 15, 20, 25 year old implants continue to look worse and worse. Even if you keep them in as long as possible, you aren't keeping the nice look you had at the beginning.
LuvRealBoobsInOR 27 Nov 2012
I never said that, I was just commenting in the self-proclaimed motivations expressed by quite a few of the elder-explanters here... Women who at one time wanted and got implants when they were younger (20s, 30s, 40s - many had multiple revisions even) and they had a change of heart and explanted post-menopause NOT due to complications but simply because the implants no longer seemed age-appropriate or attractive to them at this different stage of their lives. For all I know, some women may still want to have very fecund, large, youthful breasts when they are in the nursing home. If implants help other women in their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond to feel that they are still youthful, fertile and sexy, good for them. Other women find that when they no longer are youthful and fertile, that having breasts that appear to be breastfeeding no longer fits their personal evolution. I for one am totally over it at age 35, and feel implants in no way enhance my sex appeal, fertility, or lifestyle. To each her own.
Jessica1956 27 Nov 2012
Well said! :-)))

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