My surgery is tomorrow and I'm hoping this is the right decision for my health. I want to be implant free because I'm a mom and want to be a good role model for my daughter. I want to show her how to be comfortable with what you are given. I'm also athletic and these globes cramp my style!;-) I'm also over worrying about rupture, needing surgery when I haven't planned for it, etc. plus I'm getting mammograms now. I want to be done with these things! Ready to move on into self acceptance!
Updated on 23 Sep 2015:
Had surgery today, and I'm tired, but feeling good. I can't wait to focus on healing, and learning to be patient with the process. Dr. Murphy said it can take 6 months to a year before I really see what my breasts will look like. Too tired and sore to take a peek yet. I had general anesthesia and have drains for about a week.
Updated on 24 Sep 2015:
I'm still feeling groggy( probably the pain meds). I'm not in too much pain, but feel the need to take it easy.
If you have drains, I'd recommend wearing a button down shirt, so you have easier access;-)
Thanks to everyone who has provided support. I will do the same . I'll proved pictures once I'm Barack enough to look!
Updated on 25 Sep 2015:
Well, they look just awful. I have to remind myself that my implants were in for 11 years. I'm hoping my skin will retract. The silver lining is that they are out.
Updated on 26 Sep 2015:
Rash and hives all over my abdomen, chest, and neck. Nurse thinks I'm allergic to pain meds!
Updated on 26 Sep 2015:
They still aren't pretty, but much better than yesterday! This gives me hope!
Updated on 28 Sep 2015:
Not much improvement
Updated on 30 Sep 2015:
Got my drains out today, and have to go back in three weeks. The doctor and nurses were amazing today. I can't say enough about how wonderful everyone was to me today. It turns out my rash was from the IV antibiotic they gave me during surgery, which is a new allergy for me. Weird. I think that's part of the reason I'm uncomfortable still. I get so itchy sometimes, it's horrible. I can't wait for another week to pass, as I'm sure I'll be feeling great by then. I'm not seeing too much of a change in my breasts yet, but that's ok. I'll see how they look after the drains have been out for a bit. Happy healing to all!
Updated on 3 Oct 2015:
I'm really not liking the appearance of my breasts at all. I have virtually no breast tissue, and lots of excess, sagging skin. At this point, I have not let my husband see my breasts, nor do I have any plans for him to see them in the future. The sad thing is, I know I don't want implants ever again. I don't want fake breasts. I want my breasts not to look deformed. I'm so angry that I ever did this to myself.
I tried to cheer myself up by getting some cute, small, bras. I have NO breast tissue. I don't even fill up an A cup.
My daughter is also working through my surgery. She's been having major tantrums, and won't let my husband pick her up. She wants her strong, capable mommy. She's been putting band aids on the chests of her stuffed animals and dolls. It breaks my heart.
Sorry. I just needed to vent. Not feeling so great about myself today.
Updated on 18 Oct 2015:
I finally showed my husband today, and he said, "They aren't that bad at all! I was expecting a complete disaster!" He meant well, but....
He did come back and tell me that I'm more beautiful than ever, now that I'm natural. I told him I would never be fully natural...I won't stop dying my hair!;-) So here was what he saw...
Updated on 21 Oct 2015:
My activity restrictions are lifted! Yay! I was told to massage my scars for 5 minutes 4 times a day, and to wear Scar Away silicone strips to help fade. She also recommended that I use bras that will compress the scar tissue (like a sports bra style) to help with scar tissue. Oh the healing never ends! Hope all you lovely, strong, and supportive ladies out there are happily healing! I couldn't have made it this far without everyone's support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Updated on 1 Nov 2015:
I think the fluff fairy has visited me on the right- now please visit lefty a few more times;-) I'm very pleased, and love running and working out without the plastic bags!
Updated on 4 Dec 2015:
I've had some setbacks with my health (horrible cold, shingles, and now a mystery swollen lymph node) but I'm rocking my fitness and loving my new figure. Thanks to all the ladies for sharing their stories- you helped me find the courage to explant and love my new/ old body. Cheers!
Updated on 31 Dec 2015:
No regrets! I feel better about my decision every day. I look back at my pics with implants, and I looked ridiculous. I'm so happy with my natural breasts. Thank you to all who have been brave enough to share your stories and pictures. I couldn't have done it without your support! Have a happy, healthy, 2016!