Since my first child 10 yes ago I've had abdominal split and done everything to fix it. Tipper technique, MuTu, one to one reformer Pilates, Tummy Tribe - all of it works but temporarily. As soon as I return to weight training, even in a limited way, avoiding planks and sit ups, it returns. I am doing the surgery to fix this and I also have a lot of skin laxity. I have read Real Self for 5+ years and found it so helpful and so sharing here in the hope that my experience helps someone else on the fence. I've literally agonised over this! A huge decision to make. Updated on 3 Oct 2021: Posting a few pix of what I looked like the day before surgery. The skin hangs down when I am bent over and puddles when I am sitting. It’s uncomfortable in jeans in particular. But my main motivation for the op was the feeling when eating, by whole tummy would expand like a balloon. I’d look pregnant at the end of the day. I’ll post a pic with this update to try to illustrate. You can see my diastasis is worst at my belly button, just above it, where I previously had two hernia ops when I was 17 and 18. Here are some shots of the skin hang/ puddle/ and of me in a bikini aged 29, also of me pregnant with number three. Each time I had a child I was HUGE!! People asked if I was havIng twins, but my babies were just 9+ pounders! Updated on 3 Oct 2021: My day of op was Sept 28th 2021. Not going to lie I was terrified and second guessing whether I was really going to do this or not. But the actual experience was very good and I would do it again tomorrow. This was my fifth general but I was still scared. It was ok. A lot of people say that, and it didn’t stop me stressing, but if you have the op coming up, try not to worry! You will be ok. My doctor came in in the morning and drew on me, then I had a long 5 hour wait which was unlucky but I used it to stretch and also did some meditation music. Fasting wasn’t an issue as I wasn’t hungry! Updated on 3 Oct 2021: All done!! When I came around from the Anaesthetic I was asked straight away my pain level and I answered 7 out of 10, but within minutes I wasn’t in any real pain. The day the op was done I was actually euphoric and I guess it was all the drugs. I had two drains for the first day, a pain ‘drain’ delivering local anaesthetic, a catheter and a drip. So five things attached, good to be expecting this. I ate well on day one but be warned, you can’t eat as much!! Can feel the pressure build inside so take it steady! I guess I am used to filling an ever expanding bag (my stomach) with food and now it is being met with a brick wall!!!! My abs. I managed to snap a few shots of myself when they changed my binder to a slightly larger one, as I was swelling up, so good to have got a pic before major swell hell. The middle is numb and across the incision but I actually feel a lot on my sides and where the ‘new’ skin has been pulled down. I’m surprised the skin between my boobs and my belly button can be pinched/ has flex. This is actually a relief as I was worried I would be drum tight. Not having enough skin was a big concern of mine, looks like that was unwarranted. Surgeon came to visit me every day I was in hospital (I opted to stay a second night because I didn’t get out of surgery until 5pm the day it was done so just wasn’t ready in under 24 hrs to leave). He said everything went very well, he hadn’t managed to go as low as the c section scar (which is super low on me) he tried but we expected he wouldn’t be able to. Oddly he couldn’t find any mesh above my belly button from the previous hernia ops which is so weird. Maybe it’s inside me under muscle? Anyway, he fixed the diastasis there and fingers crossed I no longer have any gap of any kind! He did say that he could see my insides moving under the fascia, I had a serious gap. So glad this is fixed!! Updated on 3 Oct 2021: Honestly once you are through the first day at hospital, you know what this is and you can deal with it. Days 1-3 are definitely the hardest and then it’s easier and easier from there. I came off the narcotic drugs on day 3 (op Was 28th at 2pm ish and I took my last opiate 30th pm before the night) - so that hopefully shows you the pain is bad and then not a big deal at all, at least in my case. Now I’m not sure I even need the over the counter meds (paracetamol etc) and I’m still less than a week since the op. Posting here my first side by side comparison! I haven’t seen my belly button yet but I LOVE that the front is flat in the upper region!! I could achieve this Pre op by it being morning, stomach empty, and sucking in - but it being flat whether I’ve eaten or not and by not sucking in is a JOY. I’m still not standing straight up but it’s better each day. Sleeping on your back maintaining 45 degrees is not a big deal, you get used to it. Binder is on 24-7 and is very comfortable. I could manage the 5 flights of stairs in my house straight way, and first week then involves a lot of Netflix and resting, in and out of bed/ chair. So very happy overall. My scar is higher than I wanted it to be. You can’t have everything, right? Updated on 4 Oct 2021: Today (day 6 post op) I had my dressings changed, which actually just consisted of changing the brown micropore tape. Scar looks really good at this point, long may it stay that way! My surgeon popped in to take a look and was pleased. Surprise of the day is I now have a tinsy-tiny belly button!!! I am not sure what to feel about it at this point but I don’t hate it. I also kind of recognise the centre too, as my old belly button, which is kind of nice. I expect it will change so won’t draw conclusions at this point!! Updated on 6 Oct 2021: It’s a strange thing this op, because you don’t feel you have too many aesthetic expectations, or at least you try to control them - I have tried to control them, and to focus on fixing the diastasis - but you do, despite yourself. Nothing prepares you - not even years of scouring before and after photos - for what it feels like to look at a body that doesn’t look like ‘you’ last week. My body looks weird to me, somebody else’s, but I am starting to love it. My muscle structure hasn’t changed but my skin, my contour, my belly button - totally different. I want more definition and I hope it’s coming. I’m still very swollen but at day 8 it is definitely going down daily. I take my pix in the morning when swelling is least. I would literally be over the moon if one day I can see my abs. You could see them pre op, under all that skin. I’m going to have to be patient, let the swelling settle and get back into my exercise routine when allowed. I am grateful but also on a daily battle to convince myself its all good, and this isn’t yet the final result (having said which, even if it was I would be ok with it, the gap is fixed and that feels AMAZING). I am finally connected at the front. We have all read that it takes months for final results, but hard not to be impatient! I have 5 days left before I can go back to work and nearly standing straight today. I had some pangs in my upper abs when moving in bed last night and started to freak out about internal stitches undoing themselves. I’m a bit of a worrier and have to trust that my surgeon did them strong!! But only a week out and need to remember not to over do it. Opened a sash window yesterday and that’s lifting, was stoopid. About to attempt first shower and then out to lunch with my parents x Updated on 10 Oct 2021: Approaching 2 weeks since the op and swelling continues to go down. I am starting to see more definition. I am nearly standing upright now, not all the way, my shoulders are rounded, but much better. I’ve not got a lot of stamina but I did manage to go to a sports field and watch my kids run on day 10 - so getting there! I am a little weepy today. Feeling like I’m bored and socially isolated (my husband and kids have been amazing but I miss going out), whilst at the same time have some anxiety about going back to work in two days. I want to go shopping and do chores! This part of recovery is the most frustrating I think. I’m on no pain meds at all now but tight and can’t stand fully upright. Maybe the way I feel is a sign I need to go back to work - if for no other reason to stop googling belly buttons!! :) I would like mine to go in a bit more, ideally. Updated on 14 Oct 2021: Well I’m now back at work and drinking wine (probably shouldn’t be yet) and it’s only 16 days since the op. I am starting to have fun trying stuff on. I’m worrying less about my belly button (hello stranger) and getting excited about my new body. I’m now in a ‘stage 2’ garment which is tighter and non zippered. A struggle to get on to be sure but it’s making me smaller still, less swelling and pulling the tum in so it’s healing in a good ‘tucked in’ position. Updated on 20 Oct 2021: Something small to share today and sorry in advance for the ramble - real self and the internet in general is pretty confusing on belly buttons in an abdominoplasty. So just sharing here in case it’s helpful to anyone what I have picked up. There’s lots that tells you an innie belly button with a hood above is the ideal, not too big, not too small, though clearly it’s also very personal. I fall into that category of what most people seem to want, an innie, of normal size, central, with a hood. I’m three weeks post op and have devoted some of the recovery time worrying about my belly button. My main worry has been it looks very flat, the inside of it pretty much flush with my body, and it’s definitely on the small side. I asked my surgeon about a week ago about it and he recommended a ‘wait and see’ approach, and definitely doesn’t recommend putting anything inside it like a marble to encourage depth - the pressure of which could affect healing or worse, cause skin death. If you’re anything like me, ‘waiting to see’ is super hard as an instruction when every second you’re thinking your body could be healing into a new permanence (!) and I’ve been mulling it over, his confidence in the outcome eventually, and have also been thinking more about what I’ve been told before, that depth in the belly button tends to be harder to achieve when you are on the thinner side. That depth is skin and fat, which makes sense. So what’s my point? Well if you look at the photos you’ll see I discovered something super interesting to me (if boring to you, so sorry, and thanks for reading this far!). But stunned by how different the button looks when I am standing up vs bending over slightly. The button looks so much better and how I would like it to be when I bend over. The pix were taken seconds apart. So probably not as interesting to you all, but for those obsessing about buttons, there you have it, ladies out there who may be recovering from tummy tuck and with similar concerns! It may or may not be the case that as time goes on and I heal, the skin will become more lax, and as it does, the belly button aesthetic will improve. But I feel so much better now just feeling I understand what my surgeon was trying to achieve with my belly button I think! I’m still swollen and very tight - and that, and possibly the way the belly button looks - will likely change over time. Would love to know if this ramble resonated with anyone! Updated on 4 Jan 2022: Now at about three months post op and love how I look. Exercise is going well, still slowly slowly with weights. Not yet trying direct core work or chin ups but am doing half planks and dead lifts. Definition is coming. If I over do it, I hurt the next day or so, so it’s a slow recovery for me. But all going the right direction! Updated on 9 Dec 2022: Life is totally normal more than a year post op and I do everything - going rock climbing tomorrow, I can head stand, I can chin up, I can dead lift, I do sit ups. No pain. To issues. Feel strong. Like so many, now I wish he’d taken even more skin off, ha ha!! But I am very happy, very satisfied. Tummy above scar is still fairly numb. It doesn’t bother me, compared to the mental agony I was going through every day with the abdominal split and how I could t wear the clothes I wanted. My advice - if you’re like how I was, find the right surgeon and don’t hesitate. Particularly if you have tried everything else and want to feel your core function again properly. One thing I still have t done as I just don’t want to risk it, is a back flip.
Firstly, a huge thank you to all of you who took the time to post and discuss your experiences, I would never have done it without you! I am 44, 3 kids all breastfed (before implants) and I have had breast implants for 13yrs, 240cc under the muscle. I am small built at 164cm for 50kg so that made me a 30D/DD. I think I enjoyed them at first but recently started to hate those implants: they looked way to big and one had changed shaped due to CC. David Floyd was amazing: he took me through all my options, made suggestions but listened to my wishes and concerns. Took me through the possible complications but also gave me hope that I would look ok and patiently showed me pics of similar shape to mines. Even his first point of contact, Sheila is wonderful: quick to respond and extremely patient! Why David Floyd is the absolute best: I told me I would be happy with capsulectomy, no need for removing enbloc (being Covid time, I wanted to be in and out as fast as possible from hospital). Well he managed en bloc anyway! Another proof of professionality and that “he gets it”, the histology report is done automatically. Now almost three weeks post op: mostly I am ecstatic about the softness and warmth of my tiny, shrivelled up mini-breasts. But sometimes I panic that the concave ridge above my breast won’t fluff up, or I had to stop myself from crying hysterically the first time I tried to get dressed to go out (nothing fitted me!). Also I cannot think about my husband who is a real “bobby-guy”; he is being supportive but I have kept my bra on at all times! Also, I had this idea that I would be wearing padded bras and slowly ease into my new flatness but for the first few weeks Inhave had to wear the special post op bra, and really fiddling with padding and other bras was not an option! I will update you with more pics in a few weeks, in the meantime praying for the mystical fluffing!! Updated on 10 Dec 2020: Six weeks later and my breasts have started to fluff up, and I get now what this is about: it doesn’t mean that breasts get any bigger (you can see from the pics that size is roughly the same now as right after explant) BUT they get firmer and fuller, which might not come out from the pictures, but feels wonderful! I massage them every day, it feels amazing and I love it. Tried cupping but I find it a little painful, will give it a few more weeks before trying again. Now that I am out of the post-op bra, it helps that I can play around with different bras: with a good push-up bra, I look almost the same as with implants (clothes ecc) and I don’t have to worry about having a different look, and the huge advantage that I can remove the push-up bra (unlike implants!) before laying flat on my tummy at night- pure bliss! I didn’t think I was experiencing BII but I do have tons more energy now, needing on average a couple of hours less sleep. Also I am recovering much faster after training, I had assumed because of aging I was aching for days after a short jog or a barre class. That’s gone, I can go everyday now and no soreness! Updated on 25 Jan 2021: I think I am still improving, found the courage to buy a bikini and LOVING how it looks, not even padded! I do have a slightly padded bra to wear from time to time though! (Sloggi zero-feel is AMAZING!) I picked up my daughter from the airport, she had not seen me since the surgery and said “Wow Mom you are so easy to hug now!”. Made it all worth it! Updated on 3 Feb 2021: Disclaimer first: I have no idea if that’s how it’s done and please first get the go ahead from your surgeon, it’s so important that tissues inside the breast heal before trying anything that could cause damage or slow the healing! My PS doesn’t really believe that cupping does anything but he also said why not, go ahead of you want to (AFTER 8 weeks post-op). I bought mines in glass from Amazon, they are made for the face (I figured they would be gentler!?). I use little sucking as it bothers me if too strong Updated on 15 May 2021: Ok I don’t think they are changing that much anymore. Loving the softness and really fun fashion-wise: I can play with different bras and have whatever size I want, it is actually so much easier to wear anything like tank tops and T-shirt with small (VERY small) boobs!
I had En-Bloc total capsulectomy surgery (breast explant) with Dr.Floyd and it was the best decision of my life! I was suffering terribly from Breast Implant Symptoms and he was the only surgeon who believed me. His secretary Sheila was a superstar in helping me get an appointment during quarantine and got me a date for surgery as soon as they became available. I am extremely happy with my results and even though I have very tiny boobs now, at least I have my life back! Ps.I had one breast larger than the other naturally.
He is a world class surgeon. Had scar revision surgery with him. He listens carefully understands your concerns and does exactly what is agreed. Excellent Work and fairly priced. Would go back to him for any future treatments i consider having
Three months ago I found a site about breast implant illness after years of poor health worsening as time went on. I never knew it could have been my implants causing it. My symptoms included- Fatigue Palpitations Muscle weakness Bloating and food intolerances Depression, anxiety, mood swings (hormonal imbalance) Brain fog Blurred vision Rashes Allergies Headaches Short of breath Cystitis/thrush recurring Thank god my mum found this and told me to read it. It felt scary and overwhelming at first. I felt desperate to get them out but also terrified about what I’d look like and didn’t know where to start. I obsessively read through the posts on the forum and listened to hours of YouTube videos on breast implant illness and explant. I researched many surgeons at length and also messaged women on the forum to ask them their experience with particular surgeons. Some shared pictures which also helped me so much to make a decision. Here’s what I learned I needed personally- En bloc capsulectomy (implants removed whilst inside the capsule) and a lift (mastopexy). I was a 32a then had 300cc implants for 18 years (32D). I had my surgery 3 weeks ago and I’m absolutely delighted with how they look! I was so scared of being depressed with my body. They look so much better than they did originally and better than with my implants! David Floyd in London who did en bloc removal and a lift was fantastic. The surgeons I researched amd would have happily used were David Floyd (london), Guy Sterne (midlands) and Paul Banwell (London). David was closer to me in distance, and I loved the pics of his work and knew he would do en bloc so that’s how I decided. I’m so glad they’re out, my health is already improving after years of suffering (doctors could never find what was wrong with me)
I have to say that Mr Floyd was absolutely amazing. I had a closed rhinoplasty with him back in April and am extremely pleased with the results. He made me look very natural and I get complemented all the time. I knew from the very first consultation that he was the surgeon for me, he made me feel very welcome and listened to my concerns carefully, his secretary was also very friendly and nice to me. I would honestly recommend Mr Floyd to anyone who wishes to have a rhinoplasty, if I decided to have other procedures in the future, I wouldn't go to anyone else but him. Thank you Mr Floyd.
I'm a very tall Amazonian looking women, I never had boobs! To be honest it seemed to bother other people more than it bothered me! After I gave birth to my second child my little boobs had gone increasingly saggy! My husband offered to buy me 'new boobs' if I wanted! I booked in with a brilliant PS and went ahead with 500cc implants. The operation went well and I absolutely loved my new perfect boobs. They didn't define me nor did I feel they were mine and something I couldn't live without. (Luckily) I went on to have another baby, this pregnancy was so hard with many annoying symptoms. Huge weight gain, unable to breathe (had to stop my gym activities) the birth was almost impossible and I was very late (15 days) baby was born fit and well. The weight loss battle began and I was like shifting tarmac! I had my fourth baby and again uncontrolled weight gain, very sluggish but overall nothing that couldn't be recovered or mended. I still had terrible asthma and really painful skin conditions on my hands. Didn't relate this to anything other than over work load with four children. In 2014 I started having my periods every two weeks and my sleeping was awful, I literally couldn't sleep. I would be up for a few days at a time, I'd carry on as normal. Even night nurse couldn't knock me out. In 2015 things got so bad I'd started getting terrible fatigue and literally felt I was dying! I wouldn't be able to move! I was scared. I'd gone from being the light and sole to bed ridden. I went to see my GP and asked for a blood test, my bloods reviled I was suffering from an under active thyroid. My symptoms : Thin hair Fatigue Weight gain Really painful joints and muscles. Fungal nails (lost three nails) Breathing problems Stressed adrenals (highest reading my dr had seen) Depression Allergic reactions Hives Slow at healing (cuts,bruises etc..) I went into over drive not happy to have this awful condition for the rest of my life. I saw a nutritionist who ran many tests the main result was my thyroid, it came back that it had gone under active as a result of.....but what? It could be repaired but something was putting it under huge pressure. My weight continued to go on even tho i was training daily. It felt like hell, I'd eat and collapse as my body couldn't cope with food, I need instant rest after eating anything. My morning classes at the gym would mean afternoon naps to recover! This was getting stupid. I started loads of alternative therapies in the hope someone would have the answer. Reflexology,homeopath,cranial osteopath, dietitian, acupuncture, cupping. For me personally I favour homeopathy it's so brilliant and helped me massively. My homeopath recommend I saw a reflexologist whom was more than a reflexologist, she was incredible! She asked me to tell her my history and I explained what was going on. She asked if I'd had any operations? I told her about my breast implants and her reaction was 'it'll be them' she did my feet and said my body was completely shut down! She recommended I got my implants removed ASAP and start a silicone detox. Her words were implants will start leaking at eight years, mine were nine. As soon as I left her house I booked to see my PS. I'm going to have my implants removed with an uplift this afternoon. I will of course take pictures and keep you updated. Updated on 7 Jul 2016: Updated on 7 Jul 2016: Updated on 7 Jul 2016: This all started only 18 months ago, well the signs started that I started to notice! I'm going to add a few pictures of things that be happens this year. It's just a snippet of daily life. Hives, fungal nails, massive allergic reactions, all just part of daily life when your implants start seeping and your body can't clear its toxins. Updated on 7 Jul 2016: Updated on 7 Jul 2016: Updated on 8 Jul 2016: Updated on 8 Jul 2016: Updated on 9 Jul 2016: Updated on 12 Jul 2016: Updated on 12 Jul 2016: Updated on 13 Jul 2016: Day 6 Updated on 14 Jul 2016: Complications Of Breast Surgery And Silicone And Saline Breast Implants include: infection (bacteria and mold which can be released from the implant into the body) surgical risks anesthesia risks chronic breast pain, breast or nipple numbness capsular contracture scar tissue hardened and misshapen breasts breakage and leakage necrosis (skin death) need for additional surgery to deal with problems dissatisfaction with how the breast looks disfigurement arthritis and joint pain fatigue memory loss cognitive impairment: poor concentration metal poisoning due to platinum exposure (in silicone implants) silicone migration into lymph nodes and other organs debilitating autoimmne disease such as fibromyalgia,dermatomyositis, polymyositis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, mixed connective-tissue disease, pulmonary fibrosis, eosinophilic fasciitis, and polymyalgia. And last but not least, death Updated on 16 Jul 2016: Updated on 16 Jul 2016: Updated on 20 Jul 2016: Updated on 27 Jul 2016: Updated on 27 Jul 2016: Still feeling over weight after being to hell and back. Here's me twenty days after operation Updated on 7 Aug 2016: Feeling so bloated? Absolutely terrible! In my legs and tummy. Started taking supplements to help ???? slept for six ours this afternoon. Back at the gym, spinning daily.
My story begins back in 1999. I had fed two children and my last one had really taken his toll on my breasts! Thinking back, I was probably rather 'post natal' and felt really depressed about my empty looking breasts. So, feeling very determined but with no support from my husband (as he didn't want me to take the risk of surgery and have them done), I set off alone to Guys Nuffield in London and underwent the procedure. Since then I did not look back and have enjoyed them (my husband too!) for the last 16 years or so. However, around two years ago the strangest coincidence occurred. I was away abroad on holiday and got talking to a man by the pool. He asked me to guess his profession - for some reason I said Plastic Surgeon. He was amazed - but there must have been something in the back of my memory - I then asked him his name and we were both amazed to find that he was the surgeon who had performed my augmentation many years previously. He then told me I should have them checked - and although I left it for around a year, I then decided maybe I should check them out as they didn't feel the same as they did originally. I then started researching on line and looked at a number of Plastic Surgeons in and around London. Some didn't even bother to call me back - but I then came across David Floyd and left a message for his secretary. She called me back immediately so I arranged an initial consultation. I think I saw him originally around September last year. He came across as a very approachable man and immediately put me at ease. He wanted me to have a mammogram and scan in order to see the integrity of the implants. I was very pleased I did this as a lump was found. Thankfully after a few nerve racking days, the biopsy came back as benign. However, it was decided to remove the lump at the same time as the revision as it was obviously easier to access it through existing scars. Unfortunately I did not know what size implants I had already and as the previous PS had retired, no hope of finding out what they were. Mr Floyd therefore made an assessment and as I thought they were tear drop shaped, he said he would have 3 sizes available on the day, along with round implants that the hospital readily kept 'in stock'. I had shown him the sort of size and shape I hoped to achieve, so he took photos and measurements and said he would take my requirements into consideration when the time came to finally change them. I paid for my first consultation, but the second one in November was at no charge. I met and chatted with his secretary, Sheila - again a lovely lady and very approachable, and she liaised with me on all arrangements. I finally booked my op for 11th Feb 2016. Updated on 15 Feb 2016: Updated on 16 Feb 2016: Thought I would post a photo of how my boobs looked pre surgery last week. Although not bad for 55 years, they had lost volume and dropped. I hoped to achieve a more rounded fuller look, although I did not want to go for a lift. I wanted to keep them looking natural for a woman of my age. Updated on 16 Feb 2016: Silly me - too early in the morning! I meant to say Pre-Op photo 2016! Updated on 16 Feb 2016: My op was scheduled for Thursday 11th Feb . The previous weekend the nerves were beginning to kick in! I had gone down with a cold and was worried it would progress and affect my chest. My usually high blood pressure that was controlled by meds, had risen, and my usually infrequent palpitations seemed a lot more frequent. And, I started to worry about the Bio Identical HRT I was taking. My gyni told me I could continue to take it, and Mr Floyd didn't seem phased by it. But most articles I read said that this should be stopped at least two weeks prior. Too late now! I was convinced that by the Thursday they would send me home! I was called into the hospital on the Wednesday in order to have the lump 'marked'. I assumed this would be done by a pen - how wrong I was! They hadn't told me a piece of wire would be inserted into my breast - with 'x' marking the spot! This was in order that the breast surgeon would be able to pinpoint the lump within the breast. I was also given blood tests for infection and the nurse didn't seem too concerned about my cold - as long as I didn't have a temperature or problems with my breathing and lungs. (which I didn't) So we all had our last family meal together that evening. My son had come home from uni specially, and my daughter had very kindly taken the day off work to be with me. It was all making me even more nervous!! I had to be in the hospital by 7.30am, so we left home at 6.20am - I was so grateful that I had my daughter with me this time. Especially as it took so long until I actually had the surgery. Unfortunately the other breast surgeon (who was due to remove the lump) was not scheduled to arrive until 12pm, so after 10am I was allowed no more sips of water - and due to my cold, my mouth and throat were terribly dry, even before the op. I was visited by various nurses for checks and questions - I could see my blood pressure had risen again - thankfully not too high though. Mr Floyd then came to see me to have a final chat about what I wanted to achieve and then to 'mark me up'. His whole calm and confident manner made me feel more at ease. The anesthetist also came to see me and asked a number of questions. Unfortunately the other breast surgeon was delayed and by the time they came to take me into the theatre, at 1.30pm, I had an enormous headache and felt pretty dehydrated. I just wanted to get it over with. I thought I was going to cry when my daughter said goodbye, but I managed to compose myself. In the room outside the theatre they were all very kind and tried to chat to me about holidays and nice things - but I couldn't really take it in. I was more concerned about having a general anesthetic! The actual operation itself didn't worry me nearly as much. So when she put the drip into my hand, and the mask over my mouth, I heard my heart miss a beat and thought 'well this is it -I hope I wake up again'. And sure enough, two hours later I heard someone calling my name, and as I drifted out of my dream I noticed the clock on the wall in front of me. 'Thank g-d I'm alive!!' Ridiculous thoughts I know, but I guess that's just the way I think! I was extremely thirsty so was given some sips of water then wheeled back to my room. I then felt surprisingly awake and hungry (and thirsty!). Due to the meds I didn't really feel any pain initially, but even when they started to wear off, not much at all. My daughter came back to see me then Mr Floyd appeared early evening. He took a look and was happy at the way it was all looking and told me his Registrar would visit the following morning. It seems I was completely wrong about my original implants. They were in fact round and not tear drop shaped as I had thought. Because of this he was able to use the existing pockets and replaced them with round gel implants. Apparently the old ones were French (not PIP) and he said they were of good quality and in pretty good order. My old ones had in fact been 325cc and as I had wanted to increase by a couple of sizes he implanted new ones at 460cc. I was pleased to hear he had chosen implants that were notably larger in size. When my daughter left I eventually braved trying to sleep on my back. I probably got around 4 hours sleep in total, and finally gave up around 6am. I had felt a bit queazy at one point, but took some Rennies to settle my stomach. The Registrar came to see me and seemed quite happy with everything - then my husband and son came to take me home. I finally took the plunge later in the day and removed my bra to have a look. I was very pleased with the outcome. I thought they looked to be exactly the size I hoped to achieve. I wanted to go around 2 to 3 sizes higher (I was a 34D originally), fuller and rounder in appearance, but still looking fairly natural. I was impressed by how natural they were looking straight after surgery. I was delighted with the result and felt Mr Floyd had achieved exactly what I had hoped for. Updated on 16 Feb 2016: All been going well - no problems. I haven't needed to take much in the way of meds. The first couple of days I took paracetamol and anti-inflammatory tablets, but by day 3, I stopped them. However, I do have a course of antibiotics to complete. I have been pleasantly surprised by the amount of pain experienced. Far less than my first augmentation. I guess because the original pockets were used. I have however experienced some bruising to the right breast - presumably due to the removal of the lump. I was a little concerned at the end of day 4 when it seemed to have worsened slightly - hope there was no internal bleeding - just the bruising 'coming out'. The worst part has been trying to sleep on my back and having to wear compression stockings day and night. Can't wait to get those off on Thursday! I've also had to deal with the damn cold, but at last it does seem to be getting better! Updated on 16 Feb 2016: The bruising seemed a bit better this morning and I seem to be able to move around much more easily. I am still not stretching my arms too high (reaching for things in cupboards) even though I am able. But I don't want to risk increasing the bruising. I can't believe how much 'freer' I feel this time. I remember the first time I was unable to lift my arms up at all for a few days. My husband now realises I am clearly a lot better, so back to tea and lunch making duties now!! Thankfully my son is still around to help with the dinner. I'm enjoying being 'spoilt' to a degree while I still can - not for much longer I'm sure!! First time out since the op today. Fantastic to get out for lunch with my son, albeit very cold outside and not used to not being out of the warmth. Was lovely to get some fresh air and have a walk around. I have now tried on one of my bikinis. For around a year prior to the op I decided to use breast enhancers to try and get a feel of the exact size I wanted to achieve. I therefore bought a couple of sizes and a couple of larger bras. I got used to being a 34E/F and decided that' what I wanted. When away abroad I purposely bought larger bikini tops and used the padding. However, I am now really pleased to say, I no longer need the silicone padding as I fit them naturally! (well sort of naturally!). Also the enhancers served a purpose with people I know, as they will now not realise that I now have larger implants. Most of my friends and family think I went in simply to have the lump removed. Updated on 18 Feb 2016: Had a couple of appointments yesterday and today. Saw the nurse who changed my dressing, and showed me the scars with a mirror - healing nicely! Today I saw the breast consultant who removed the lump. He said he was very happy with everything and although bruised, it's not too bad. All is going well and I am beginning to feel closer to normal. He said I could sleep on my side, but he is not my PS, so not sure about that from the point of view of the implants. Unfortunately my PS is currently on hols, but I think I will try a mix of back and a little side, in the hope I get more sleep! It seems showering is out for at least another week. I currently sit in a shallow bath and sponge myself. Not satisfying - I don't feel clean and relaxed!! How about any of you - when did you first shower?? I guess a good soak in the bath with be a long time yet. Updated on 23 Feb 2016: Well things seemed to be going very smoothly. However, at the weekend I started to feel a bit of pain, and by this morning, my left breast had swollen and feels very tight. Interestingly it's the left one, as the right one is where the lump was removed and that is now looking so much better. Do any of you ladies know if it is normal to get swelling at this time? I'm presuming it probably is, but obviously nice to know if anyone else experienced this. Obviously if it gets more painful or tighter in feel then I will contact the PS's office. I have currently started taking the anti-inflamatory tablets again, along with paracetamol. I am wondering if this could also have been caused by a) the bra, or b) sleeping partially on my left hand side. I have been using a Macom bra the majority of time. However, it was becoming very uncomfortable, so I used the other bra I was given at the hospital. This is a Carefix bra and frankly I think it is too loose. The straps are not tight and no way to tighten them. The nurse said I would be fine with it, but it is an extra large - compared to the Macom which is a medium. Looking on Carfix site, it seems my size should be a large. I think I will send for one, along with a Macom night bra. I was hoping to wear something a little more attractive soon, but I don't think that's going to be an option at the moment. Also, I got so uncomfortable on my back I have been sleeping some of the time on my left hand side. It feels ok at the time, but by the morning I feel a bit stiff and achey. I think I may have to try and sleep on my back again. Just when you think you are on the up - you come back down again :( Hope the swelling goes down soon. Updated on 25 Feb 2016: Can't believe it's now two weeks since the operation. It's gone so quickly doing nothing!! The swelling in my left breast seems a bit better, but it is still larger than the right one. I'm looking forward to taking a shower at last, although the surgeon said to make sure I don't get the wounds wet. I removed and replaced the Micropore tape today. The wounds look ok, so hope they stay that way. Does anyone know how long before the stitches start to dissolve?? My first op I had trouble with them, so hope I don't have the same problem. My boobs look so much nicer now when I bend over. Previously they were pendulous and very narrow looking. I used to feel a bit embarrassed when my husband saw them (don't think it worried him though!). I can now see what my PS meant about a slight dip in my right boob where the lump was removed. He said he thinks this will probably disappear as the wound heals. I hope so, as it does make the breast look a bit smaller than the left one - having said that, my right breast always was a bit smaller. I am loving the way they look when slightly pushed together! Can't wait to buy some lovely new bras! Updated on 2 Mar 2016: Not a huge amount of change now. Definitely both boobies are softening up and aching is becoming less and less. Really helped when I got my new Anna Carefix bra. Fits brilliantly and so comfortable. I think this is now allowing the left one to drop a bit. It still looks a bit bigger, but that one always was. Also, it doesn't help at the moment that I can now see a change in shape to the right one where the lump was removed. Hopefully this will even out over time. I removed the micropore tape today - and replaced - hopefully for the last time. It's making me a bit red and sore now, so I'll be pleased not to wear it after 4 weeks. The wounds are doing well, but I can see a length of suture hanging down. Will it drop off - or will I need to cut it off?? (self dissolving stitches). Maybe I'll check with the surgeon's office. Other than still feeling a bit tired (apparently the anesthetic takes a while to leave your system), all is good! Updated on 9 Mar 2016: Has anyone had any problem with nipples and aerolas?? My left aerola has been very dry since day one. The nurse said this was due to the nerve endings - but I'm not convinced. I feel that something was put on the nipple area - I kind of picked it off on day one - could have been tape or something. Since then I have moisturized, but it's still very dry and has little lumpy bits. Any suggestions for what I could use?? I've tried bio oil and various moisturizers. Also, my nipples are very sensitive and pretty large (erect!). In some ways I guess that's a good thing as after my initial augmentation I lost sensitivity for a good couple of years or more. Have any of you experienced this, and does it go off?? Updated on 13 Mar 2016: Amazingly it's now over a month since my revision. After speaking with the nurse, she said it was alright to remove the micropore tape at last - and I could take a bath/shower/swim! Bit nervous about it, so not absolutely soaking myself - fantastic to get rid of that itchy tape though! The incisions were a little red and sore after I managed to remove all the tape and goo! So I've been using antiseptic wipes to clean and Savlon cream. They seem to be looking less red now and don't 'burn' so much. The left nipple is still dry, but I am moisturizing 2-3 times a day so hopefully it will be better soon. Also started a bit of massage, but not putting bio oil on incisions until they look more healed. Both boobies have now dropped and I think are 'fluffing'! They feel much softer now. My nipples can still be very sensitive - sometimes a good thing I think, but yesterday it seemed to cause nerve pain in my right boob. Thankfully today, both boobs are pain free - just get the odd twinge from the incisions. Unfortunately I can see a slight loss of tissue on the right hand side of my right breast, from the removal of the fibroadenoma. Hoping this will soften over time, as the surgeon said. At the moment it looks a bit 'straight' rather than fully rounded. Wish I'd had more cc's in that one, as that was my smaller boob anyway. I went out for dinner with friends last night and wore a tight fitting dress - decided I couldn't wear my usual soft bra - my nipples seem so large and erect, they show through anything tight! So as it was only for a few hours, I wore a wired bra. Looked a great shape - and I felt fine. But will not wear normally. Still not sure if I am 34F or 32G. I did my measurements on a calculator and it said 32F - but I was 34D before my revision??? I have sent for a 32G to see how it fits. Also got a new bikini for the summer from Boux Avenue. Sent for a 34E and 34F. The latter probably fits better, but the 34E gives me more of a cleavage and more boob showing!! Went for that one. Not sure if I will be able to wear it my May?? Updated on 5 Apr 2016: Coming up to 8 weeks now and don't notice a lot of visual change. They have probably dropped a bit further, but difficult to tell as they were always fairly low. I think they may also look a bit rounder. I've had a lot of problems with dry/flaky nipples and have kept moisturising a number of times a day. But when I stop they go back to dry again. Wondering how long this will go on for. I saw Mr Floyd yesterday - first time since the op. He is very pleased with the way they are looking and asked if I was too. I am very pleased with them, but like most ladies, wondering if I should have gone a little larger! Having said, that I guess I'm just getting boob greed - after all, I now measure 34F - so how big do I really need to be! He confirmed I had Nagor gel implants - moderate profile - 460cc. Not used in the US I believe, but highly thought of in the UK - they are a British company, and considered very good quality implants. He said the redness of my incisions is quite normal, and to massage with bio oil - which I have been doing for a while. He couldn't shed any light on the dryness of my nipples - he asked if I had feeling in them - which I do. Strangely, my daughter reminded me she has had a similar problem (and no augmentation!), so perhaps it's totally unrelated, and just due to our sensitive skin and climatic conditions!! Hope it goes soon. He said I can now get back to normal and wear normal bras, and not wear one at night! Was not brave enough last night though! Treated myself after my appointment and visited shops in Oxford Street (London) and tried on many bras! Purchased a few - photos to follow! Updated on 5 Apr 2016: Updated on 7 Apr 2016: After my visit to the PS I decided to treat myself to some new bras. Have two soft ones and three underwired. Wearing the soft most of time and underwired on occasions. Tried wearing no bra last night, but found it a bit uncomfortable. Every time I changed sides, I felt pulling on the outer edge of my boob. So will continue to wear compression bra for sleep a little longer. First two bras (pink and black) have no wiring and very comfortable to wear. Brand - Panache, Purchased from Bravissimo. Size 34F Pink dotty bra - Brand - Freya, purchased from House of Fraser. Size 34F Black bra - Brand - Marie Meili, purchased from House of Fraser - bargain at half price - £11. Consequently size not accurate 36DD. Could have done with a cup size larger, but figured I could wear on an evening out for 'va va voom' effect! My favourite bra - just adore the Brighton design! Brand - Tutti Rouge, purchased from Debenhams. Size 32FF. Lovely sets, have all the matching pants too!! How exciting to get out of those disgusting compression bras! Updated on 20 Apr 2016: Went shopping again this week - I've lost track of how many new bras I have now! Can't seem to buy enough of them! For you British ladies - it's interesting to see how sizes vary from one shop to another. But Marks & Spencer definitely seem to be on the larger size. I bought a few of the Rosie Collection silk bras and thankfully I am a 34E in their sizing - the lovely bras only go up to this size, so pleased I didn't need to buy an F. However, Boux Avenue I fitted a 34F, but felt it a little tight around my back, so finally opted for 36E. Also bought some new bikinis and looking forward to wearing them in the sun very soon! My nipples have still been very dry and sometimes sore - particularly my left one. I think the nurse may have been right originally, that it is something to do with the nerves to the areola. When I touch that area there seems to be less feeling there than in other parts. So I am hoping this will recover in time. In the meantime I have used Vitamin E oil and moisturiser, but have just started using lanolin nipple cream for breast feeding. This also contains Vitamin E. It's Boots own brand and so far has been very effective. I'll keep you 'abreast' (no pun intended!) of how it works out! Updated on 10 Feb 2018: Can't believe it's been just over 2 years now - where has that time gone?!! I thought I would put up a couple of photos of how things are looking now. I'm pleased to say the dryness to the nipples finally cleared up and all feeling has recovered in the nipples again. On the whole I am still very pleased with them. They have well and truly dropped and look pretty natural. But, I have to say, I do wish I had gone slightly bigger - probably because I have put on a little weight and so would like a bit more shape! Having said that, they settled down to a 34E which I guess is a good size. However, I am thinking I will probably need them done one more time in my early sixties - so maybe I will decide to go bigger then. I would really like to be a couple more sizes bigger - but then again, would that be sensible going forward as I age? I will see how I feel in the next few years. My only concern has been the scars. Whilst a lot better than they were, they are still quite raised and a bit red. I can't remember how long it took for them to fade first time round. I guess this may be my last post for a while now. Good luck to all you ladies out there thinking of having yours done.
I am SO BEYOND EXCITED to move into the next (and hopefully final) part of my “breast improvement journey” LOL! Please see my last review on explanting 15 year old saline implants. It has been so freeing to have them out, for so many reasons, but as I feared, I’ve been left with a very concave “empty bag of skin” look. It’s ok, easily remedied in clothing, but I’d like to look normal when naked or wearing a swimsuit and just have what I had pre-implants/kids. I wouldn’t be sad if I had a little more either! ;) Enter Dr. David Floyd who specialises in lipofilling (fat transfer) for the past 10 years! From the first consult phone call, I felt like I would be in very skilled and caring hands. When I met him in person, I literally had tears in my eyes as he showed me some of his work. It is apparent that this man has been a blessing to so many women by bringing normalcy and beauty to such an intimate and important part of our bodies, going from disfigured and deformed, to not only symmetrical, but stunningly beautiful. There are risks, but I feel confident that he is a master at what he does, and I’m just praying he finds an adequate amount of fat on me to make a difference! As you can see, I’m quite concave, and though I technically measure a 34B, I can’t even fill a 34 A. The skin on my breasts has been stretched by multiple back-to-back pregnancies and breastfeeding, which is *hopefully* not too bad of a situation since the “space” should easily accommodate new fat cells. I think the hardest part for me will honestly be NOT exercising for 3 months! I’m a fitness instructor and have been addicted to working out or playing sports literally my entire life. However, I’m committed!! Not spending 5k for nothing! ;D My stats: 5’10” 140-145 lbs 34a bust 28” waist 39” hips Can’t wait to post an update after surgery! :) Updated on 9 Jan 2021: I literally took these pics less than 15 minutes after waking up! I’m SO insanely happy! He only took from my flanks, skimmed my back and abdomen and didn’t touch my legs (which I’m very happy about as they are my pride and joy haha). I’m not sure how much he got, but it feels like around 150cc’s maybe? They are so soft and do t hurt at all and I have minimal pain at the lipo sites, honestly I won’t be taking any meds and I’m traveling home tomorrow. This is literally 10,000 easier than I was expecting, and I ate like a horse as soon as I woke up! Haha, I can definitely tell it’s going to be a fun challenge to keep my calories high enough! Anyway, I should find out exact cc’s and will take pics of lipo tomorrow! I know this may not seem like much of a difference, but it truly is a world to me, and all I wanted was to not feel deformed. I wasn’t going for the over-filled, “make me a D+” results, just what I had pre-implant and pre-kid would be a dream come true and he exceeded that! :) Also, keep in mind I am 5’10.5” and very very lean/toned at 140lbs (much of that is leg muscle)! Updated on 12 Feb 2021: I feel like what I have now is here to stay, and I’m already planning a second round. I’ve taken care of my four young children (age 6 and under) from day 4 and moved house over the past 2 weeks! So I’ve been busy, but made sure to eat well, not get my heart rate up, and not a drop of alcohol. My husband does light lymph massage on my lipo sites about every other day, and I dry brush before my shower each day to keep the blood flowing. My shape has dropped from week 1, but all the fat has stayed. Hopefully there’s more of a base (and more fat since I’m not working out at all) for round 2! Updated on 12 Feb 2021: The difference that lipo made might be my favorite part! As for the transfer, I think what I have is here to stay and I’m already planning a 2nd FT. I’m 5lbs up from op day, lipo sites look great but are still tender and slightly swollen. I’ve recovered while taking care of my four children ages 1, 3, 4, and 6. We also have moved house the past 2 weeks, so this is possible, ladies!!! Im going to continue to eat well and not exercise in hopes that I have more fat to pull from in the 2nd op, but I’m confident I have more tissue to add to in my breasts this time! Yay!!
I had my consultation with Mr Floyd on the 30th April my consultation was not rushed and he answered all my questions along with showing me before and after pictures relating to my surgery. Absolutely lovely man who reassured me he would be able to offer the enbloc removal of my implants and an uplift he thinks I have enough breast tissue to perhaps be a large C cup or small D cup. Mr Floyd does offer breast fat transfer but he didn’t think I would need it. I felt so relieved and happy after my consultation with him. I have seen a few surgeons for a consultation but after meeting Mr Floyd he is the surgeon for me without a doubt. I will be uploading before and after pictures of my surgery Due to Mr Floyd being fully booked I will have to wait until the 20th December for my surgery. I believe he is one of the best surgeons for this procedure so I would wait even longer if I had to to. Updated on 5 Dec 2019: Hi Everyone Well surgery booked for May 2020 Unfortunately I’ve been given steroid injections due to an allergic reaction and I’ve experienced severe hives urticaria so delayed my procedure until May so that my immune system can recover. Also more time for me to quit smoking which has been very difficult indeed however I have cut my smoking right down and will continue to reduce until I can finally stop. I won’t be using an e cig as I think they can cause other lung problems so cold turkey for me as you can’t use nicotine patches. Sheila Mr Floyd’s secretary has been amazing and very helpful and understanding. I’ll be back soon with my before pictures I have double bubble and my breasts look horrible I had my previous surgery silicon breast implants under muscle via my breast in london my surgeon was mr withey. I have complete faith with Mr Floyd as my surgeon he is performing an enbloc removal with lift. I am very nervous about surgery as since having breast implants I have experienced terrible health problems fibromyalgia, hair loss, allergies fatigue also I was diagnosed with oral lichlen plantus an autoimmune disease this year. I also suffer daily with brain fog skin rashes dry sore eyes pains in my hips back shoulders the list is endless I can’t be sure my silicone implants are to blame for all of my symptoms as I am 57 and been through the menopause at 47 but I am sure a lot of the health problems are related to the implants I have had daily pain with both breasts for around a year and they feel hard and I can feel ridges where the implants are they are textured silicone. I am scared about the surgery but I know I must get these toxic bags out of me for my health to improve. Back soon with the before pictures. Updated on 27 Apr 2021: Hi Surgery date booked for 20th May can I ask for suggestions I live alone so I will not have any help after surgery once home, any suggestions on what to do to help recovery. Really nervous. Hell won’t let me post without adding more text so just hope adding this is enough for this to post. Updated on 18 May 2021: This is me before surgery 2021 I had my second set 2010 at My Breast surgeon Mr Withey This is how they looked straight after surgery double bubble hard and ugly I was told by the surgeon to massage them which obviously I did, no massage was going to take away the way they look. Worst mistake going to my breast. I have complete faith in Mr Floyd. Updated on 3 Jun 2021: Hi Everyone This is me one week post op Still fully taped up and wearing the post op bra 24/7. I have my first dressing change appointment with Mr Floyd’s nurse Thursday 27th May. So glad it’s all over and those toxic bags are out of my body. Updated on 5 Jun 2021: Hi Everyone This is me two weeks post op. I am using the micro pore tape for another two weeks and wearing my post op bras 24/7. I change the micro pore tape weekly. I see Mr Floyd in July for my 6 week follow up. Updated on 12 Jun 2021: Well my allergies are at it again:( I’ve developed red sores along my lower breast scars so told to stop using the tape. I wish I wasn’t so allergic to everything :( I knew I was allergic to the white tape so the brown micro pore tape was used and initially I thought I was ok but I’ve had redness over a week. Updated on 16 Jun 2021: Just posting pictures of my new post op compression bras. Extremely supportive much more than the one given at the hospital Theya. I was suffering from irritation especially my upper back so looked into finding a cotton bra. If you go to lipoelastic.co.uk you will see the range. I went to the showroom in london as I wanted to be measured but the online shop is great too. These bras are very very supportive Hope this helps someone :) Updated on 16 Jun 2021: I purchased two new compression bras from lipoelastic.co.uk yesterday. They are cotton and extremely supportive much more than the bra I was given at the hospital called Theya. I was suffering with skin irritation from the Theya brand plus they were riding up under my breast scars which was painful. I went to lipoelastics showroom in london but they have a good online shop. My new bras are really supportive much more so than the Theya. Theya was made with bamboo nylon and polyester my new bras are cotton. Hope this helps someone. Updated on 24 Jun 2021: Hi Everyone Here are my five week post op pictures. I have stopped using the micro pore tape and using Avene water spray along my stitches, I’ll start the E45 moisturizer in the next few days then after the six weeks I’ll start the silicon scar treatment. Does anyone recommend a scar treatment?
