I've known Dr. Melmed for more years than I care to admit. He's a genius, and one of the only plastic surgeons on the planet who puts patient health and safety before profit. Dr. Melmed does breast implant removal (explants) leaving the natural breast looking better than with the implants! He does an internal sling/reconstruction during the explant procedure that all plastic surgeons should know how to do, but for some reason, just don't. All hail Dr. Melmed!
I am approximately 5'3 (on a good day, when gravity behaves). I began to "bud" at age 7! I was very slim until about 16 when I started endometriosis treatment. Anyway, my breasts steadily grew each year and by age 25 I was a whopping size K! Dr. Melmed is an artist and he is so fun! I had him do my nose about 7 months later. He is fabulous -- doctors like him are so rare these days!
I can’t say enough about Dr.Melmed and his staff!! You will Not find a more caring , loving, professional and “ precise “ doctor then him!! I have had 2 surgeries with Dr.Melmed and he goes over and beyond for his patience!!! I’m very very picky and went to 8 other surgeons before choosing Dr.Melmed. God Bless him.
I have been wanting a breast reduction and lift for years and kept putting it off because of work and putting family first. I finally decided to take the leap and give myself relief from the constant back and neck pain that I knew wouldn't get better with time. I had a consult with Dr. Edward Melmed in Dallas Texas a trusted physician I have known for years from working in the medical community. His consults are strait and to the point. No B.S. I will say this, he is such a sweetheart of a man. Not once did I feel like I was a patient. I felt like I was a friend. He fully explained his procedure to me describing the how's and why's of his special technique of reducing and lifting the breast. It was like a lightbulb going off. I couldn't understand why EVERY doctor doesn't do this style of reduction. His reduction and lift technique is done in such a manner that he uses your tissue like a sling to make your own bra. His scars are anchor style but with central darts to prevent stress on the suture line to prevent popping and opening. It was clear to me that he knows his stuff. My surgical team at Medical City Hospital were amazing. Pam my intake nurse at ASC went out of her way to make me comfortable and came by to visit after my surgery even though she was off shift. James Mueller my Anesthesiologist was my kind of guy. Precise and thorough like his military background. I am 4 days post op and I feel fantastic. Drains were removed yesterday with no pain and I have tiny bits of bruising. My breasts look high and tight as if I had breast implants. For the first time in my life I have boob gap. I NEVER had boob gap. (Girls with big boobs know what I am talking about) I am over the moon with my results and can't believe that they will get better than this. Updated on 29 Sep 2017: I am 1 month post-op and I am beyond thrilled with my results so far. Even though my scars are still healing I think for the first time ever my breasts are beautiful. I have been more active without the extra weight on my chest. My recovery was surprisingly easy with minimal discomfort. Everyone who knows about my surgical adventure have been amazed with my quick recovery. Dr. Melmed has amazing skills and is confident in his old school approach to medicine. I had complete faith in him due to his through explanation of the procedure at my consult. He does not advertise. No website he has a thriving practice due to patient referral. I referred a friend to him several months before my procedure. We saw each other today and showed each other his work and needless to say we both agree that he does amazing work. I highly recommend Dr. Melmed. Ask for Dr. Meuller to do your anesthesia. He was amazing and the nurses at SEX medical city hospital are top notch.
I had 425 cc implants placed under the muscle in March of 2011. When I had them done, I wasn't active and didn't really think they would ever bother me. Boy was I wrong. I started working out and lifting weights later that year. During that first year, I notice the right one was starting to harden and move. The implant was moving up and towards the center and my breast tissue and pec muscle was moving towards my armpit. When I flexed it got worse. As time went on, I continued working out. It got worse and then the pain started. I had horrible pain in the front of my shoulders. Anytime I would workout and use my upper body I wouldn't even be able to raise my arms for a day or two later. Then I started having random pains at night. My shoulders would wake me up in the middle of the night from the pain. It was awful. I've dealt with the pain best I could for the past 5 (almost 6) years. I've continue to workout regardless of the pain because I know it's good for my body overall. I'm tired of feeling like I can't breathe, not being able to lay on my stomach, having to deal with the intense shoulder pain, not being able to fit in cute tops, and everything else that comes along with these foreign bags of silicone in my body. I want them out. I've researched several doctors and decided to go with Dr. Melmed out of Dallas, TX. My surgery is this Monday. I'm really dreading the recovery but I know this is what I need to do and I can't wait to have them out. I'll keep you guys posted. Updated on 12 Dec 2016: There out! Wooo hoo! I already feel so much better; mentally and physically. I honestly don't think I could've found a better surgeon. Dr. Melmed was incredible. He spent over an hour with me discussing everything that goes into the surgery, his practice, my feelings and concerns, and his recommendations. I've never felt more comfortable and more cared for by a doctor. He was there when I woke up and checked on me several times after. I'm so happy I chose him for this procedure. I go back tomorrow to have the drains removed. I'll post a photo then. Updated on 13 Dec 2016: Going back to get the drains removed today. The pain is about what I expected. I was given Tylenol 3 and it is plenty. Rest and stillness is all I need for a few days. I'm a bit nervous about having the drains removed. It just sounds icky... but overall I'm so happy I am silicone free ???????? this was the best decision for me Updated on 13 Dec 2016: Finally made it home. About to bathe and get in the bed. Just looking at them in the mirror for the first time. Thankfully, because of the other posts on this site, I was prepared for them to look like this and I'm not stressed about it or worried one bit. I know they'll get better each day. I'm just so thankful that it's over with and they healing process can begin. It feel so good to take a deep breath again ???? Updated on 15 Dec 2016: Three days post explanat. They are getting more full and more perky each day. Still a bit sore when I move certain ways but very happy with how my body is healing. Updated on 25 Dec 2016: Updated on 15 Jan 2017: Feeling better everyday Updated on 2 Mar 2017: They're not perfect but they're mine and they're real. So happy I did this
After having breastfed all three of my kids, my boobs had completely changed. So I decided to do what I never thought I would, get implants. Within 6 months of having them done I wanted them out. They were huge, the size of my breastfeeding days if you will! I changed the way I dressed to hide them and my right one lost all feeling. My shoulders, back and neck were always sore. I met with Dr. Melmed in the summer of '16 and knew he was my guy!! After all, he paved the way and is the ABSOLUTE BEST! He truly cares for you and your well-being.
I had 275 cc saline implants placed under the muscle at 20 yrs old. Like many young women, I felt inadequate by my small chest. I was a 34a and about 100 pounds at 5'1. There was absolutely nothing wrong with me. They were perfectly proportioned with my frame. Looking back I wished I would have never done anything. I did enjoy having them and they were a huge confidence booster through my 20s. I had my first child at 24 and nursed her for one year. My breast changed. They were a little smaller and not as tight. More natural looking. I also got a few stretch marks. I was still happy with the look of them. Then at 29 I had my second child. I nursed him for 23 months. When I weaned him I noticed they were much different. The implant hung high and my tissue hung off the bottom. I also gained lots more stretch marks. They are faint but make for bad skin quality. I went in for a consult for a revision in June. I had slight capsular contracture in my left breast (which was holding the implants high) and we were going to use a larger silicone implant to fix the problems. I came home excited. I deserved this after devoting my body to my babies. I started researching this gummy bear implant they were going to use. By pure chance or divine intervention, I came across horrific pictures of ruptured implants and information on breast implant illness. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Thousands of women were getting sick from implants and having them removed. I had never heard about this. Then I saw the symptoms list. Fatigue, joint pain and skin rashes stuck out to me. I had bad hip joint pain, was always tired and got psoriasis, get this, about a year after having my implants put in. So My mind wasn't instantly changed. I'm only 32 and still have vain moments. I figured this wouldnt be me. The more I read and debated, I just couldn't unsee the stories or images. So I discussed it with my husband . The fact that every 8-10 years I would need surgery and 8k to upkeep these breast. (That alone had my hubby saying "take them out" lol) The concern that they could make me sick in the future and possibly have been the cause of problems I already had. Also the fact that capsular contracture would eventually happen again. So I spent the next month researching like crazy. I found this forum. I was so excited to see women who went back to their pre implant self, even after years of implants. I gained the confidence and hope that I wouldn't come out deformed to proceed. So after much research I found out about Dr. Melmed who happened to be in Dallas near me. I emailed with him first and sent pictures. He said he thought I would have a great outcome and look better without them. I then went to a consult. He is so sweet and gentle but funny and charismatic. He has a huge personality and presence. He treated me with respect. He asked me if I was ok with being small again and that I needed to be completey ready to let go of them. He showed me pictures and told me we would have a great outcome. He recommended the benelli lift (taking a crescent shaped piece of skin from above the nipple and raising my nipples a few cm. they were low after nursing and the implants dragged them down.) he also said he would do the internal lift ( he does on everyone) I was so confident in everything he said and had talked to many women who had used him and were thrilled. So I set a date. Surgery day came. Medical City is one of the top hospitals in the metroplex and I have nothing but good things to say about all of the people I came into contact with. From the preop, anasthesia, surgery to post op. I did wake from anasthesia with a very sore throat from the tube ( I couldn't swallow which was scary) it went away fast and I didn't have any nausea or pain. 5 hours after arriving at the hospital we left. I took the Tylenol 3 every 4 hours anticipating pain and napped off and on the whole next 24 hours. Returned to melmeds office for drain removal. Was super easy. No pain just slight discomfort. Unveiled my tiny boobs which were squished and deflated( as expected) They perked up some over the next 24 hours. I was amazed at how much higher my nipples were. It was only a couple of cm's but made a huge difference on me. I had very little pain or discomfort. I have a 2.5 year old so my mom has stayed for all the lifting, bathing Ect. I've taken it easy and am just now getting to feeling back to normal with energy levels. It's been 10 days. I'm pretty happy with the initial look. I'm hoping they fluff some and the skin retracts a little more. My skin quality from my stretch marks has me worried. When I lay flat, they look wrinkly :( Good news though. I haven't had any hip joint pain and some of my psoriasis has already disappeared :) The fatigue I won't be able to tell about till I'm more recovered. I'll try to update with any changes. The stickies will stay on for nearly 4 more weeks. I'm terrified of what it looks like under there. Updated on 27 Oct 2016: I've had so many ups and downs with healing from implant removal. I don't mind being small at all. I love how most clothes fit me so much more. I have good days and bad about the healing of my nipples ( I had a crescent lift) that are not even and one points outward a little. I did notice that in my before explant pics that it had started to a little after nursing but it's much more so now. I'm hoping time will help with those little issues. I also have major issues with lying on my back. My breast are wrinkly when I lay down. My surgeon says to give it time that it takes time for skin to retract and tighten. We shall see. They are far from perfect but I'm happy with them upright. Especially having nursed for 3 years of my life. I'm hoping they get better and better because getting implants again is not happening!! I'm so happy to be rid of all the tiredness, joint aches and brain fog!!! Updated on 22 Nov 2016: Feel so much better. Love the way I look in clothes. Getting more comfortable with how they look outside of clothes. Still not happy with how they look when I lay down :( skin wrinkles bad. Not sure if it's from the nursing or combo of the implants stretching the skin and nursing. Not happy with the shape of my nipples. The incisions were a little sloppy. However for me, I prefer them to the anghor lift scars. My left nipples also points outward but it did that a tad after nursing two babies, just does it more so now. Oh well Updated on 6 Aug 2017: So... I'm so happy I had the implants removed. It doesn't bother me to be small chested anymore. I look thinner and it matches my petite frame so much better. I actually feel more delicate and feminine. However, I do think I wish I would have went a different route. After giving myself a year to heal and for the skin to retract and tighten, I'm not fully happy. I wish I would have had a lift. They have dropped quite a bit and there is too much excess skin. I wanted to badly to not need one and to forgo the scars. I saw so many beautiful results where everyone's tinies popped back into place and the skin was taunt. I should have know after nursing 2 babies for a total of 3 years in top of 12 years of implants was going to leave me with extra skin and droopiness. Dr melmed do the crescent lift and internal lift. My nipples are higher, but they have been stretched from the incision. Plus his incisions really are sloppy. One of my scars blends very well (left side) the other is very crooked and has a bubbled part on one side ( right side) it is also puckered more and pulls on the skin and makes my stretch marks more prominent. When I lay down is probably my biggest concern. They dent in and pleat where the puckering from the incisions are. There is just too much extra skin. My plan is to go see Dr. Hubbard in Dallas for a consult on 2 weeks. I actually consulted with him before my surgery a year ago and liked him a lot. Honestly I just wanted to get out of the scars from a full lift. I'm pretty upset with myself because I will pretty much have to pay the same amount for a lift that I did for the whole explant a year ago and I could have just used Hubbard and had it all done in one go. But I guess I would have always wondered how well it would have turned out without a lift. So my journey continues...
After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and researching the causes, I concluded that my 12year old saline implants were making me ill. I am very healthy,eating an organic vegetarian/vegan diet. I exercise, am 5'8" and 135 lbs. I can only conclude that the implants were impacting my health. I read reviews of several doctors on real self and came across Dr Melmed. I scheduled a consult, did not seek a second opinion. I scheduled the procedure after my consult. My husband and I felt so comfortable with Dr Melmed we didn't feel the need to see anyone else. I really like the fact that he doesn't put breasts in, he just takes them out. If a doctor knows that they make women sick, why would they implant them. There is a highly rated doctor out of Atlanta that talks about implants making you sick, yet she continues to implant patients. So I was seeking a doctor more aligned with the values of "doing no harm" . Dr Melmed also has experience working, shaping and placing the nipples where they belong. This is highly technical and many top cosmetic surgeons either are too lazy to deal with nipples or just don't have the technical expertise. My sister had her implants removed last month from her doctor in Australia. The breast are sunken in and do not look nice at all. I will post my before and after photos below. The after is from 24 hours after surgery. I am amazed that I do not have a single bruise. I highly recommend Dr Melmed. Updated on 16 Aug 2018: So it’s been a couple years and I am still loving the work Dr Melmed did. I feel great and I love my natural breasts. Some people asked for after pictures so I am not the best at selfies but I took a couple I wanted to share. They aren’t perfectly even in sizing, they never were before implants. They are as if I never had implants to begin with. My health is significantly better. I also did a variety of cleanses and liver support along with surgert
I have had implants since age 30 and I am 61 now. I had no idea there were real, positive options for removal until recently. I was diagnosed with autoimmune disease about 10 years ago, but started to have noticeable symptoms about 7 years after my first implant. I am currently positive by lip biopsy for Sjogrens and also borderline lupus. My first implants were ruptured for over 10 years and all my doctors, including the rheumatologist said they were harmless. They aren't. My second set were saline that also ruptured and I had a third set that developed contracture. I came to Dallas on my own and had them out. I can breathe again. Wow! And my breasts are natural and look pretty good, but the final outcome is too soon to know. Dr. Melmed is skilled and wonderful and takes personal care of you. The hospital and anesthesia are aces. I should know, I'm a nurse. I wish I had met Dr Melmed years ago. He is principled, personable and highly skilled. It is well worth it. I expect my symptoms to improve and I am looking forward to a healthier, natural life!! Don't hesitate. You health is worth it. Updated on 27 Apr 2016: Wow! I am sooo happy to have had the implants removed. The first thing I noticed right off the bat is that I breathe so much better. My friends commented that I look younger and I do! I have better posture and a slimmer, healthier look. I still have small breasts, but they look and even more important feel like normal, much softer natural breasts! I feel better too. My achiness and fatigue is noticeably improved. I am excited for you ladies who are taking yours out. You should feel much better and look younger. I am happy to have made the decision!:)
Hi Lovely Ladies! Thinking of you when writing this, thank you so much! I appreciate each and every one of you! So God bless you all, you have both moved and inspired me! You have all been so influential in shaping my decision to make it a top priority to move forward to remove the silicone implants that have without a doubt contributed to a long list and host of health issues for way too many years. The implants have been in my body now for 34 years. They are definitely ruptured. See MRI photos, it appears like silicone is spewing into my breast tissue, which is very concerning to me! I believe if I had come across a site like this year ago with the type of information I have been provided with, I would have found a way to have had these implants removed years ago, instead of having an unhealthy foreign matter in my body for over 34 years! When I looked into breast implants in the 80's, I was of the understanding that they lasted a life time, and there were no health problems associated with them. I was unaware that I would be required to have multiple surgeries every 10+ years because they had an expiration and could rupture inside the body and cause all kinds of problems. I know I would have ruled it out altogether and learned to ignore the teasing growing up about being "flat as a board" and learn to accept and love the way God made me, beautiful and lovely in His sight. This is how He sees me and each one of us, (and its a good reminder in life, especially with explant 9 days away)! A little bit of my story, in my early twenties, I didn't feel the need to listen to a couple of silly boys or society for that matter on what was deemed attractive or not, but I did care what my then husband thought of me, and I really did want to be attractive to him. I was slim, athletic, and HEALTHY with very low body fat. We both were young, and my husband made several insensitive and immature comments on occasion to me about how my breast didn't measure up, and couldn't I just make them 'bounce' or 'shake' more like other girls? The answer was no. That's not a nice thing to hear when you are naked, and I literally felt naked and inadequate in that moment, not a good feeling. Marriage to me, is a place to feel secure, naked and unashamed, a place to express and celebrate love and discover each other, but with comments like that, that wasn't the case during those times. For the record, there were times when things weren't like that as well, it wasn't a constant, but enough to make a mark on me. Although my husband never insisted that I get them, he was the catalyst and thrilled when I decided to get them at the ripe old age of 22. My PS wanted to put 320cc implants in me, but I stood my ground with him to use much smaller implants because I wanted a natural look to my then trim body and didn't want to be self conscious of large breasts either. I ended up with 160cc McGhan silicone round implants. My PS said I wouldn't be happy with that size and would be back in a year to replace with his suggestion of 320cc. He was wrong, I was very happy with my new natural looking size that enhanced the fullness of my breasts just right. No one even knew I had gotten implants, not even my mother, and that was how I wanted it - just between my husband and I. I'm glad I didn't go larger, as I'm now in my 50's and 50lbs overweight (after gaining weight after a back injury and a large amount of steriod use for several years to control autoimmune issues due to implants, I'm sure.) I look forward to downsizing all the way around (both explant and weight loss) to get back to the most healthy and real me I can. I am excited about that! Anyway, I developed a capsule scar tissue hardness within months of implantation, so the PS externally tried to tear the capsule hardening around the implant by squeezing my breast tightly within his bare hands until scar tissue capsule surrounding implant tore. A little painful, but It worked, and my breast became soft again. I generally was very happy with the results for many years, as was my husband. Fast forward many years, and I gained weight after a back injury that kept me from working out until it healed a year later (10-20 pounds). As some of you may have guessed, my weight became an issue for my husband (even when slim) as well, and I grew tired of having to live up to a perfect standard all the time, was hurt and angry that he rejected me. The more he focused on my weight, the more I did not lose it. Although it bothered me too, and I wanted to lose the weight for myself, I just couldn't lose the weight knowing he only loved me if I looked a certain way and not loved for the person I was inside. He acknowledged that he was superficial and said sorry, but he wanted the whole package, or not at all. At least, he was honest. So not at all, was what happened. Needless to say, we ended up divorcing. I hope this doesn't sound too awful because I wasn't perfect in our marriage either and I really did adored him, but I truly believe it was his loss, not mine overall. I truly wish him well, and I pray he doesn't do what he did to me to any other woman. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. I believe there is hope for everyone though, and that includes myself. I've grown a lot over the years, and I would never give another person the authority or permission to make me feel bad about myself or about the way I have been fashioned by a loving Creator and Master Artist. We all are fearfully and wonderfully made! Once I understood how God viewed and passionately loves me, that is all I needed to know and my confidence soared with that revelation. I made a decision that I was going to stick with His opinion of me and not man's/or society's, not even a husband's. Its wonderful to know full acceptance, true value, and genuine love and celebration for uniquely being yourself. We all are master creations, wonderful "originals"! In the art industry, "Original" art has the ultimate highest value. There is no one like you or me, even down to our fingerprints! Isn't that amazing? Why be a copy or imitation, when you were designed to be (and are) an original? No one can be YOU!, and that makes you so beautiful. So don't worry, be happy, celebrate you! Embrace yourself and and move on to better health and life, that's what I decided to do. Now that I know what I know, I am confident in who I am, and I am also confident in who you are, simply and wonderfully made, that's a fact! I had to say all that to let you know where I am today, but the process was a long, winding road to get there, one I'm still on. Like so many of you, I have paid a dear price for the decision I made so long ago. Kicking myself for it now, and for not dealing with it sooner, due to unawareness, then financial limitations, fear and excuses, etc... I realized so many of the symptoms many of you were/are experiencing echoed mine as well. Definitely a wake up call for me that a lot of my illnesses were in all likely hood stemming from breast implant illness. There is not much one can do in looking back hindsight, but to move forward, and make good/healthy/loving/kind decisions for your body/life now and make the decision to chose life! The positive is, with implant removal much of these illnesses and issues can be resolve in time with proper care. Here are a few of the issues I have had to deal with over the years. Auto immune complications, inflammation, short term memory loss, brain fog, dizziness, on and off vertigo, frequent sinus/upper respiratory infections, ever increasing fatigue (severe currently), skin problems, hypothyroid, swollen joints, granulomas, swollen lymph nodes, arthritis, heart/lung issues, dry eyes, vision problems, allergic reactions to food/medications, digestive issues, chest/heart pain, abnormal EKG's, neurological issues, anxiety from too many weird feelings in my body, sleep problems. I went from generally healthy and fit to being sick much of the time. I didn't put two and two together, but believe my implants ruptured or caused a huge inflammation reaction about 14 years into it (around 1997), when I flared in autoimmune/swollen joints issues, and it got better with strong steriods (several years) prescribed by my doctor. I tried hard to eat healthy and control it that way too, which helped I'm sure. Around 2008, I noticed my breast shape started to change, and suspected a leak, which was confirmed by PS. He told me it wouldn't spread, and we discussed and agreed that I should lose the 50 pounds and then have explant and lift. I didn't lose the weight, and a bigger factor, I didn't have the financial resources available to have surgery, so I ended up putting it off, a choice I regret. Three years ago, my family doctor convinced me to have a mammogram since I hadn't had one for years. I was fearful mammogram would rupture implants. She told me mammogram machines were newer and didn't squish breast like they did in the past, but the one I had did. I believe the implants ruptured then, or in a larger capacity if already ruptured, because after that I had such an increase in pains and health issues (lots of weird chest pains/heart pains, inflammation pains (lymph nodes, down outside area of right breast into area beneath breast, food/med allergic reactions, deep/intense fatigue, shortness of breath, increase of URI/sinus infections, vertigo, etc...) It increased enough for me to lay awake at night not feeling well enough to go to sleep, weird pains in body that seemed so not normal, scary. I asked with my doctor several times, with each physical, to allow me get an MRI, but she told me to go to a PS for that. I know I didn't have the funds, so I didn't. Finally this last January, I had my yearly physical and refused to have a mammogram due to fact that I strongly believed my implants were definitely ruptured and didn't want to spread it further into my body. I had a breast ultrasound done due to hard lump discovered in breast, but that ended up being non-cancerous, but a calcification (again, probably due to implant rupture). From there, the PS on staff agreed to order a MRI. The MRI showed both implants were ruptured but contained. Looking at my MRI results, it looks like the capsules are containing implants, but also the capsules may have holes that have allowed silicone to escape and work its way into the breast tissue, and I'm wondering if the pain I felt down the side of my breast is leakage too, seems like MRI is showing it seeping out underneath side of breasts too. Anyone have insight into that? PS thought my body is in an inflammation state of reaction to implants and advised removal asap. She didn't do explant and suggested I get them removed and replaced with new implants. I found this site and become a member in January 2016, and have begun an extensive search on my quest to gather information and make the best decision possible to explant asap. I felt the need to get these removed asap now knowing what I do. I was able to get in with Dr. Melmed, Dallas, Texas for April 7th, for en bloc explant and benelli lift. He doesn't believe in implanting women, and believes breast implant illness is a very real thing, and he is recommended by other ladies who have used him. He has performed over 4,000+ explants. I am preparing myself ahead of time the best I can for the best results. I ordered pre and post surgery vitamins from VitaMedica, eating healthy lean meats, organic veggies, fruit, nuts, lots of water and rest. Looking at comfortable, supportive post surgery bras online. Wondering if there are skin creams to help prepare the skin for surgery. I realize I'm running out of time, surgery is 9 days away! OH MY GOODNESS!!!, but I am not going it alone. I told family and one friend whom I trust for prayers and moral support. I have worked extra hours and have the funds now too. I'm paying all my bills ahead of time, cleaning house, preparing meals ahead of time, trying to relax and make ready this body that is no longer in its 20's for surgery! Whenever I feel anxious, I turn to the Good Lord for support and peace. I am grateful that I know He cares about everything we go through, He is with is us, and for us, so we are never alone. I know He is helping me in this process every step of the way, so I will rest in that! I will try to post pictures later, at least of MRI. I'm still a little on the shy side regarding photos, but will try to overcome that too. Any words of wisdom regarding prep and/or post tips are welcomed. Say a prayer for me too, I will be praying for you all! Here's to a healthy future, full of renewed hope and vitality! Its ours for the taking. :) hugs. Updated on 30 Mar 2016: Here are a few photos of recent MRI showing evidence of ruptured 34 year old silicone implants. I can't wait to get these out of me! No more implants for me, it's time to get healthy and back to me! Explant ingredients on April 7th. Updated on 14 Apr 2016: Sucessful explant surgery was on 4/7!!! Ecstatic to be implant free and back to me!!! I realize the trauma of removal and then compression wrap does not flatter and the skin sags, and we need to allow time to what is called "fluffing" up and to spring back, but I can honestly say, I look so much better already without the implants! Why did I wait so long?! There is so much to look forward to ladies!!! Already my dry eyes are gone, my sinuses and lungs are clearer. I breathe so much better and I'm sleeping like a baby! I just slept the first four days away and woke up well rested and peace. Don't be afraid to explant, its SO WORTH IT!!! Hugs to all you brave ladies out there from one happy girl! Updated on 14 Apr 2016: Please don't ever get implants!!! Don't do this to yourself! You are precious and beautiful just as you are! Do you really want THIS in YOUR body?! I care enough about you to tell you to just say NO! Now give yourself a beautiful hug, embrace and love yourself, I just did! Updated on 30 Apr 2016: 3 weeks ago was my explant surgery. Sorry, I've been on the wiped out side delaying my update. I am so happy I went through with it and on the other side! So worth it, ladies!!! However, you will see I did have my struggles...The day of surgery, I arrived early for my 9am consultation, surgery scheduled for 11AM. I noticed beautiful flowers on the way in, and something caused me to pause and gaze at their natural beauty. I found strength in them, so I snapped a few pictures and headed in. However, I'll be real, I became more conflicted with each passing moment about going through with surgery that day and was seriously considering rescheduling until I knew my insurance had given their pre-certification approval to cover costs of explant surgery. I had called the office the day before to discuss alternative dates, but missed them. The insurance company were dragging their feet big time, even though Dr. Melmed's office manager called my insurance company multiple times, and Dr. Melmed himself had written a strong letter to support me. I also had told them I would cancel if they didnt approve it prior to surgery. My insurance company told me to go ahead with surgery, that my type of insurance didn't require a pre-certification to cover surgery, but my gut feel was if I didn't have approval for coverage before going in, they would find a loophole not to cover it even though my implants that were not only silicone but showed ruptured and baker IV contractures too. they told me they "thought" it would be covered. I had also made the mistake of reading a bad review the night before of another woman that had developed a nasty infection after her surgery, (note to self... Dont do that! FYI, i did not develop any infections after my surgery! I believe each body heals differently and we need to follow instructions to a tee to optimize healing, both are not a reflection of the doctor's skill). I had read also mixed opinions of the Benilli Lift not lifting breasts at all, conclaving nipples and flattening breasts in some cases, while minimally lifting nipples 1-2 cm, so I was wavering. (My thoughts on Benilli Lift is still to be determined, will keep you posted as I give it a little more time). I knew I had to get these toxic implants out asap, I just wanted everything lined up too and to feel peace for surgery that day. Bottom line, if I didn't feel a peace to go forward, I wouldn't. Well, I have to tell you, Dr. Melmed and office staff really went WAAAY above what most Surgeon and offices would do. Dr. Melmed discussed my concerns along with a few others, so I felt better. They got on the phone to the insurance company, and Dr. Melmed said he would even call and talk to the top decision maker himself if he had to. Get this too!, they switched me around with another person having surgery after me to get the insurance approval first! Needless to say while waiting, I was praying what to do!, what to do!! I was looking around the office and it was modest and friendly, with antique medical collection displayed behind glass cases, so kind of interesting. Everyone was friendly and kind to me, and I felt like they genuinely cared, including Dr. Melmed. I heard he is 80+ years old, but you would never guess that in a million years. He is very sharp. I loved him! I'd rather chose a doctor with an unpretentious office who has skilled expertise and truly cares, then a super modern office with a barely skilled or over inflated ego of a surgeon. I loved it while I was waiting for the insurance company to call back that the peace I was looking for came and I also saw a sign that said, "Take time to smell the roses.". Haha!, thats what i have did. I knew then the insurance would come through, even before it did, and I was finally ready! Insurance approval came in, and I was whisked away to pre-op. From there everything went really quickly. I had 4 persons surrounding me at one time prepping me, giving me a nice little cocktail to help me with post nausea (I didn't get sick at all, which is not the case for me), they numbed my hand before inserting IV needle and it didn't even hurt! I love Dr. Melmed's surgery staff too. Incredibly professional and so kind. They said they loved working with Dr. Melmed. Dr. M. came in to speak some words of encouragement, and that's all I remember until I was waking up afterwards and it was a done deal!!! I crossed over to the other side! Thrilled beyond belief to be done with it and begin the healing process! Dr. M. was there when I woke up. He said I made him work really hard! A vein of mine by my right side/armpit had became tangled and tethered to the calcifications. It was cut inadvertently, and I bled alot! He said they had to use extra means to get it to stop, but he did and it stopped! He said everything else went good. I wasn't in pain afterward. I vaguely remember my friend picking me up and don't really remember getting home. Haha! I slept like a baby throughout the night! Best sleep I've had in a very long time. :) Will stop here for now to rest and will update rest later. Worth it, worth it!, so very worth it ladies!!!!! Explant island siesta breezes here I come! :) Updated on 30 Apr 2016: Updated on 3 May 2016: The day of surgery, I was good with no additional medication other than over the counter Tylenol that evening. I did immediately start taking Arnica Montana 30x in recovery room. I ordered it from VitaMedica. (They have a Recovery Support program which was two weeks supplements before surgery, and two weeks after surgery to help promote skin tissue healing. The Arnica Monana 30x helped me tremendously with swelling and inflammation. I really didn't swell at all! I did bruise pretty good because I ended up having a vein tethered to the Calification and it got cut in process of explant. My Doctor said I really made him work hard because they had a hard time stopping it. See picture. Wasn't Dr'S fault as not much he could do in that circumstance. The next day, I got my drains out. I did take one prescribed Tylenol 3 because I had heard getting drains out can be unpleasant, but it was over so quickly and didn't hurt, just slightly, so I probably didn't need to take it. I took an occasional regular Tylenol the first 48 hours on and off, and that was it! My bruise cleared up within two weeks. I rested/slept tons first week and followed doctors instructions to a tee, and had very little pain. See picture. Most pain was right side near vein. Updated on 3 May 2016: I have to say overall post surgery was not much pain, more like daily tenderness. Only pain, was if I did too much, like trying on new bras at 2.5-3 weeks out. Next day was ouchy! At the 3 weeks mark, when released to go about business as normal, I started out with a light load of laundry (washed new bras, underwear, and two t-shirts, in a light weight mesh laundry holder.) My, oh my! I felt like I really had pulled a muscle, maybe even tore it. I had more pain with chest muscle pain then surgery itself! Fortunately, it only lasted a day or so. I was also glad for this site, as I read someone else's review that at the 3 weeks mark she was experiencing more pain then anytime earlier too, and her doctor told her it's normal, that the nerves are reattaching themselves to the wall and waking up and thatsee not a bad thing, the pain will pass and it's a good step in healing. I felt reassured I didn't do something to harm myself. It did pass, along with some odd pains throughout joints (detoxing, inflammation flaring, then completely leaving my body!) and I am now I am feeling GOOD, thank God!!! I feel really good ladies, and just want to say at 3.5 weeks post surgery, I am LOVING being on Explant Island, thus the tropical floral picture for everyone to enjoy! I am one relieved, happy girl! Explanting was one the best decisions I have ever made. It really does celebrates and revitalizes life!, it celebrates me!, and it celebrates you (all of us)!!!!!!!! Sending love and hugs to all! Xxxxx Updated on 19 May 2016: I continue to absolutely love my choice to explant! Absolutely no regrets. Only pain was when I carried a heavy laundry basket once, a few sharp pains throughout the night, but they have resided. Daily I see improvements in my health. Still sleeping so soundly like never before, lungs, sinuses clear. I am grateful! I am so happy to share with you all, to encourage you that things WILL IMPROVE AFTER EXPLANT, and I have definite proof! I had a "good" size thick nodule/tumor on my inner thigh that I have had solidly for several years. My doctor called it a benign tumor. It never went down in size, and was continuing to grow and grow. I was considering having it removed, it was so noticeable and who wants a tumor in your body? Well my breast explanting friends!, it has almost completely disappeared overnight a few weeks after explanting! Only a fraction of it remains. I believe as my body continues to detox itself, it will dissolve completely! That is solid proof to me, that my body was reacting to the toxic silicone/ruptured implants in an inflammatory way, and was trying to get my attention to address it. Our bodies are so wonderfully made, if we would only pay attention to them more! So that was super encouraging to me! Over the past few weeks, I realized that while I am improving in many areas, I was also flaring in inflammation on and off for several weeks (swollen joints in my hands and feet, achiness, NEW unusual flares, nodules deep in the palm of my hands and base of fingers, extreme fatigue at times, etc...) My chest broke out after surgery, and is still broken out, but healing too. So weird, but I am realizing my body is in the process of releasing toxins and inflammation that my body has had to hold onto for years, so it will take a little bit of time to process its way out of my body, probably in doses and months. Today, I am good, no new nodules or flares, just fatigue. I am looking into natural ways to help facilitate health, healing, detoxing naturally, safely and as quick as possible. Please share if you have helpful healthy tips! Below I have copied a list I came across that compiles common symptoms of breast implant illnesses. I found it educationally, and I hope it helps, so you can be aware of what your body may be telling you too. It's sobering how many of these same symptoms I have experienced also over the last 34 years of my life, as have many I have seen here on this site. So Dear ladies, it's time to regain/get our health and lives back without having to have these symptoms/illnesses be a part of our lives any more, or minimally to the degree of influence they have in the past. Time to shut the door on these illnesses. Remove the implants, and remove the permission and access of these symptoms to your future! Explanting is one of the best expressions and choices of loving yourself!!! FATIGUE OR CHRONIC FATIGUE COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION (BRAIN FOG, DIFFICULTY CONCENTRATING, MEMORY LOSS) MUSCLE PAIN AND WEAKNESS, JOINT PAIN HAIR LOSS, DRY SKIN AND HAIR POOR SLEEP AND INSOMNIA DRY EYES, DECLINE IN VISION, VISION DISTURBANCES HYPO/HYPER THYROID SYMPTOMS HYPO/HYPER ADRENAL SYMPTOMS ESTROGEN/PROGESTERONE IMBALANCE OR DIMINISHING HORMONES SLOW HEALING OF CUTS AND SCRAPES, EASY BRUISING THROAT CLEARING, COUGH, DIFFICULTY SWALLOWING, CHOKING, REFLUX VERTIGO GASTROINTESTINAL AND DIGESTIVE ISSUES FEVERS, NIGHT SWEATS, INTOLERANT TO HEAT NEW AND PERSISTENT BACTERIAL AND VIRAL INFECTIONS SLOW CLEARING OF COMMON COLDS AND FLUES FUNGAL INFECTIONS, YEAST INFECTIONS, CANDIDA, SINUS INFECTIONS SKIN RASHES EAR RINGING SUDDEN FOOD INTOLERANCE AND ALLERGIES HEADACHES SLOW MUSCLE RECOVERY AFTER ACTIVITY HEART PALPITATIONS, CHANGES IN NORMAL HEART RATE OR HEART PAIN SORE AND ACHING JOINTS OF SHOULDERS, HIPS, BACKBONE, HANDS AND FEET SWOLLEN AND TENDER LYMPH NODES IN BREAST AREA, UNDERARM, THROAT, NECK, GROIN BOUTS OF DEHYDRATION FOR NO REASON FREQUENT URINATION NUMBNESS/TINGLING SENSATIONS IN UPPER AND LOWER LIMBS COLD AND DISCOLORED LIMBS, HANDS AND FEET GENERAL CHEST DISCOMFORT SHORTNESS OF BREATH PAIN AND OR BURNING SENSATION AROUND IMPLANT AND OR UNDERARM LIVER AND KIDNEY DYSFUNCTION CRAMPING TOXIC SHOCK SYMPTOMS ANXIETY, DEPRESSION AND PANIC ATTACKS SYMPTOM OF OR DIAGNOSIS OF FIBROMYALGIA SYMPTOMS OF OR DIAGNOSIS OF LYME DISEASE SYMPTOMS OF OR DIAGNOSIS OF AUTO-IMMUNE DISEASES SUCH AS; RAYNAUD’S SYNDROME, HASHIMOTO’S THYROIDITIS, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, SCLERODERMA, LUPUS, NONSPECIFIC CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SYMPTOMS OF OR DIAGNOSIS OF ALCL LYMPHOMA
