Dr. Keller and his ENTIRE TEAM are over the top AMAZING!!! After having consulted with another Dr. in a very prominent or so they think practice and being offered a surgery date within two weeks of the appointment I felt a little uneasy, especially knowing that most Dr. make you stop smoking for 30+ days prior to any procedures. Dr. Keller and his staff spoke with me about ALL the potential risks and drove home the NO SMOKING. Had I gone with the other Dr. who knows what would have happened? I must say after two 9+ lb babies in 18 months and 5 years of trying to make my tummy look like it used to I decided it was time. I look a million times better but more importantly I feel better inside and out and am excited to be able to wear regular sized clothing that doesn’t have to accommodate my extra skin. Another must say thing about this practice. They are friendly, down to earth, not pumped full of things to make themselves look better nor do they have a chest that falls out of their shirts. They are normal, everyday people who I loved working with! I would go back again and again if there were a need. Anyone can call me as I would be happy to tell more! AMAZING
Dr. Keller is brilliant. I went in for a breast reduction and told him to make me as small as possible without making me look odd (or not proportioned!). I am in awe. He's a perfectionist and I am so happy!
Finally decided to have BR after years of headaches, neck aches and shoulder pain. I was wearing a 38G, but after wearing the Bali minimizer (which was all I would wear) for a couple of hours, I would get the wire pulling free from rib cage...so no doubt I was bigger than a G. I had met my yearly deductible and decided to see if insurance would cover the procedure. It took longer than expected (nearly a month) but was eventually approved. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: Surgery went off without a hitch. Took all day to finally be taken in and the doctor kept me overnight. You gals that go home same day must be warriors, no way I could have done it. All told I had 3.25lbs taken off. I'm pleased with how they look. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: I've been very nervous to take the surgical vest off. Only a teeny amount off drainage. I did have drains in, but they were removed prior to leaving the hospital. I'm weening myself off pain meds. I purchased a recliner and travel neck pillow for sleep and I'm so glad I did. I'm a side sleeper and this has kept me firmly on my back. I've had full arm movement so showering has been easy. In fact, I think my lack of arm soreness has contributed to me doing more than I should. Boobs are really tight and high, looking forward to them softening. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: Had my weekly follow up. Thought I was doing ok and decided to do some shopping afterwards. I got really light headed and nauseated in Target. Ended up with a killer migraine. Of course this then led to an emotional breakdown and wanting to die! Lol! I've been surprised by how stupid emotional I've been. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: Here's what I think- all measuring tapes should be hid from you until a month or more has passed. I KNOW I'm smaller, so I decided to measure...that seems reasonable right??? WRONG! Well I plugged in my measurements into a bunch of online calculators and I'm measuring at like a 36G. WTF?? I was smooshed into a 38G prior to surgery. My sane self says to knock it off- but my emotional self wants to kick something. I did find this interesting page that discusses "sister" sizes. I found it to be reassuring and helped me put things in perspective. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: Went and got my tape changed. Am told I will wear it for another two weeks. I can now wear a loose fitting sports/leisure bra for two week. Updated on 5 Jan 2017: I've come to the conclusion that I'm never going to find an after surgery bra that doesn't KILL my horizontal incisions. It's been 23 days and I'm in as much pain 1/2 way thru the day as I was after surgery. I feel like I've spent a fortune on cheap bras. Everything fits, but they are either too snug as the day goes by, or too loose and rub. I've ordered coobie bras and I think they will be great eventually. OR my gut is just bigger than I realize. I say that because I've noticed that all the "soft" bras roll up when I sit down. So wonderful for my self-esteem. I purchased the fruit of the loom front closure bras and I feel like they are to short from top of shoulder to bottom of bra. They just keep pulling up and into the incisions. I went back to work and told my boss I needed to shorten my days for the rest of this week. All week I've been coming home and yanking it off and just want to weep. I've got tape on for another week and I don't know if that's part of the problem. The incisions are starting to itch like mad and it doesn't allow for the skin to move? I'm terrified to have anything split back open though, so I guess I will just deal with it! It's closing in on 30 days and I'm a cigarette with a glass of wine girl once a week so I can't wait (told no nicotine for 30 days before/after) and I also vape. I need something to look forward to, so I'm goofily excited about that. If your anti any of the above, I understand, but I won't judge you for your sins either! ???? Updated on 5 Jan 2017: For anyone that this might help: If you are not a skinny girl. Don't waste money on anything labeled "one size". Your incisions will be sore and you will not want anything that is tight. I'm not particularly heavy in the waist, I measure 35 inches at the waist, but I'm a definite hourglass and that means that the tension is less at the bottom of the band than it is at the top- that means bands roll up. I'm not sure if I was straight up and down if that would happen or not. Additionally, leave your bra ego at the door and order or buy something that is at least 2 sizes bigger than you think you will need. If you think you are a LARGE get a 2XL. Remember these bras are 10 bucks, not the $85 we are used to. It's going to be ok to toss them later. I didn't follow this and so now have a drawer full of bras that I will wear eventually, but don't help me at all now. If you are a heavier gal and found a good aftercare bra that didn't kill you, I'd love to know what you got! Updated on 9 Jan 2017: I'm wondering how others feel at 4 weeks. My boobs really ache and I just thought I'd not be so "aware" of them as I am now. Anyone else still feel painful at 4 weeks? The tape is starting to bother me and I've been told I can take it off, but that scares me. I'm not sure what I'm going to find. It looks ok, but I'm wondering how much support the tape gives, or if that's why they are hurting. Thoughts anyone? Updated on 21 Jan 2017: As I've entered week 5 I'm surprised how much better I feel. Things are much softer and I don't feel nearly as tender. I finally figured out how to wear the pull over bras so the seam doesn't rub my bottom incision- wear them inside out!!
I've got surgery in less than a week. Very large chest but was even larger prior to breast feeding. Now my breasts aren't as dense but still a lot to manage causing back and shoulder pain. I'm back and forth from excitement to what if I'm not happy with it.... I'm sure I will be glad but not ever having surgery before is making me a little nervous! Updated on 5 Oct 2016: I'm headed to the surgery center! Oddly enough I'm not really nervous at all (yet)! Just ready to get the ball rolling and be on the other side of the procedure! I will update when I can! Updated on 6 Oct 2016: Surgery went well! Took a little longer than I expected but as long as the results are good im perfectly ok with that! I feel pretty good. I've been staying on top of the pain meds and plan to do so through the weekend. I figure if it helps me rest it will help me heal! I have an appointment at 1230 to check on the "girls" and remove drain tubes. Hopefully I can peak and get a coupe pictures then. Updated on 6 Oct 2016: I get motion sickness pretty easy which means i was more likely for sickness coming out of sedation so the put a scopamine patch (goes behind the ear to reduce motion sickness) on me. Very thankful for that. I have no sickness to speak of. Was pretty hungry by the time we heade home so that part made me feel kinda cruddy. Updated on 6 Oct 2016: Things went good at the PS today. I had some leg pain so he ordered an ultra sound to check for clots (none were found). Didn't have the girls out for long but my friend was able to snap a pic for me! Updated on 7 Oct 2016: I feel REALLY good! A little tender but nothing like what I had imagined. Granted, I am still taking pain meds but still don't think it's to bad. It was really nice to get a shower this am. I was alone and that made it a little tricky to wrap myself back up but I got it done! So far I am so so happy with the results. Updated on 9 Oct 2016: Today I quit taking the narcotics to just using Tylenol. This was not tough to do. Pain has been very minimal.i ordered some extra compression bras because it drives me crazy only having one. Updated on 13 Oct 2016: Feeling good! I get tired pretty easy. I had to go to a different bra. I couldn't stand that super high coverage surgical one any more. I've been back to work all week.
Well...where should I start? I have wanted a BA for as long as I can remember! Since probably around age 15 when I realized that the boobie fairy forgot to sprinkle magic dust on me to get them to grow. After having two kiddos, I knew that it just wasn't going to happen for me. I didn't lose much, I am not deflated, but they definitely aren't anything to call home about, that's for sure. My husband has know since probably the first day we met that this was on my 'to do' list. He is finally on board! And we are done having babies. There is no better time than now! A few months ago, my best friend got hers done and had a great experience. I supported her every step I the way and made sure to take notes! So...[RS bleep] or get off the pot, right!?! LOL. November can't get here soon enough! PS - This is the best site ever! I have learned so much from the experiences shared!! Thanks everyone for helping me build up the courage to officially dive in! Boobies boobies! Woohoo! :) Updated on 7 Aug 2014: I guess it's only been a little over a week since I started my blog journey. I've been super busy at work and home since school is getting ready to start & haven't had much time to obese about my BA. But I do feel like time has absolutely slowed down! This past Monday, however, I was starting to think about the arrangements I will have to make for my kiddos while I am recovering afterwards. My almost three year old will have to stay with a family member for a week, that's a for sure thought that I have. She is a crazy little monster and I know that I won't be able to do the things I need to for her. My son will be in school, so I need to arrange drop off and pick up for him for at least the day of surgery (Wed) and two days after (Thurs & Fri). But then I started to wonder if maybe I should try to move my surgery day up by three weeks to coordinate with my son's school schedule? So that way there would be one day less of drop off/pick up for my family. I called my PS office to check on that. The husband....well, he is stoked for me to be able to do this since knows that this was on my life's list of things to do for the last 15 years. He is very supportive. I did mention the recovery week to him since the surgery is an hour and a half from where we live. He will be with me the day of surgery and one to two days afterward (we will be shacked up at my mom's, being I am having this done in my home town.) I told him I would ideally like to stay from Wed to Wed to recovery since I will have a post op appt the day after surgery & probably at a week post op. Anyway...He didn't agree with that. He wants me to come home a day or two after. But has also stated that he will not be attending post op appts in the weeks after surgery, which is fine since they are just check ups. I am not sure how to tackle the 'I would rather have my mom and sister take care of me, and you do the mommy duties for our son' topic...i know he wants to take care of me after this life changing surgery...but I want my mom to! Agh. Updated on 7 Aug 2014: This darn phone! It auto corrected 'obsess' to obese. SMH! Updated on 22 Aug 2014: I decided to coordinate with my son's school so it wouldn't be so hectic for my in laws with drop off & pick ups. I was able to move my surgery from November 12th to Oct over 22nd!! Pre op & consult appreciate is on October 3rd instead of October 24th. Yay! Yay! Last night for some reason, reality smacked me in the face. O.M.G. I am really having this done. This is not a little life change. This is huge...A major surgery! I have never had surgery before for anything. Yes, I have had two children and have several tattoos...but this BA seems to be something I can't wrap my mind around. I am so scared of the recovery pain and what if it doesn't heal well? What if I have to have a revision? When can I return to work? So many questions. I am most concerned about the pain management. But honestly, I think the uncomfortable feel from the pressure will be the 'pain' I am freaking out about. I guess I don't know how to explain it?? And I don't take pain meds. They make me nervous. I don't like to feel 'not myself' & have a low tolerance for medication. Don't get it twisted - I am overly eager to have new tatas and be on the other side of the boobie fence...but it's so scary. Will I be able to handle it? I am pretty sure I will be okay. I don't know what the comparison would be between a BA & tattoo pain...but seriously, can it's be that much different? I say that because I have 9 tattoos, and several are in painful places...my sternum, the side of my stomach, top of my foot, the front of my shoulders, on my thigh...If I can survive those, I can survive a BA right? And 5 he experience of being engorged with milk after having a baby - that is a crazy intense weird uncomfortable type of pain. I can do this. I can do this. Updated on 22 Aug 2014: I updated from my phone. Sorry about those errors! But you get what I was trying to write!! Updated on 25 Aug 2014: Yesterday while my mom was visiting she decided to bring up the BA topic, which is fine - but she started on a rant about the size I am hoping to achieve. As a small B cup, I am hoping that I will be able to get 400-450 cc moderate plus profile. I am hoping that will put me in my D/DD range. That's been my ideal size since day 1. Mom, however, thinks that I will look ridiculous at that size. But I know what I look like with a large D since that is what I was at after having my first child almost 7 years ago. And it's quite amazing!! I will not let her burst my bubble! All the ladies on both sides of my family were very blessed with a large C being on the small end!! Why didn't I get them??! Ugh! I'm gonna fix that problem! Any thoughts on sizing? I have seen some fabulous results on this site and I really think that it will look just fine with large tatas! Updated on 28 Aug 2014: After looking at my posts, I realized I didn't post any Pre-op stats! Currently I am 5'3", around 117 lbs., and and awkward 34B (on the smaller side). BA is 55 days away! I am still very excited but very nervous at the same time. I am on this site almost daily checking out everyone's posts on their journey to the other side. Updated on 28 Aug 2014: So this is my current self. Small. Sad. Nothing. Updated on 29 Aug 2014: Updated on 30 Aug 2014: Some of the great journeys on this site have led me to save some photos & do my own searching for wish pics online. I am not going to put a caption on each photo, but just know, there is something about each photo that I love. I think they all hint at the look I am going for. More natural on the fake side of the fence!! ;) the slopes and wider coverage catch my eye. I seriously could look for wish boobs all day!! It makes me more excited to get to October 22nd! Updated on 4 Sep 2014: I just looked at my count down app on my phone - 48 days!! Holy balls! The nerves are starting to get me. Anxiety. Am I really doing this?? My life long dream is becoming a reality & I am kind if freaking out about it. I feel like I should start purchasing a couple good front closure sports bras for recovery?? Or is it too early for that? I definitely want my end results to be a D cup...do I buy a bra in a D cup or a DD due to swelling? Any thoughts? ?? Please help! Updated on 2 Oct 2014: I haven't been on here in almost a month!! I've been so tied up with out bike trip and the kids birthdays that I have kind of let this review slip a little. But this morning, I looked at my count down app on my phone and I am sitting at 19 days & 22 hours until B-Day! Over the last month, I have sort of reached what I call a 'numb' state about the whole deal. Don't get me wrong, I am still very pumped for my BA...but there are just things that are triggering a little anxiety. First off, the actual surgery - I am totally okay with. I have no worries about it. After all, its a tiny bit of time that I will actually be in surgery. The recovery...well...I am very nervous about that, but who isn't, right?? I have been in contact over the last month or so with a fellow RealSelf'er & she has been a huge support system for me. Her journey, surgery & recovery have been very inspirational for me. Our stats are very very similar, almost the same and what we are looking to achieve is almost spot on! Thank you a ton to her (you know who you are!) The scary!!! So, 'the scary' to me is the consult/pre-op appt that I have next Friday. I am not nervous at all about the appt. I am very freaked out about my husband being there. He isn't going to like that I have to stand topless in front of another male, even though he is a doctor and very professional. I just know that hubs is going to over think everything once we have that appt. Do I bring this 'topless' thing up to him before hand and kind of get an idea of what to expect when we get there? Or do I just wait it out and let things happen. If he freaks, he freaks. Its the doctor's job to take a look so he can make recommendations on what will be best for the look that I want and the profile choice. Then again...maybe I am the one that is way on edge about it all. When I think about anything that has to do with my BA, I can feel my heart start racing. My heart rate jumps and I feel like I should call it quits. Maybe I need a Xanax! LOL. Updated on 8 Oct 2014: Quick update...consult/pre op has been moved to November 10th. And surgery has been moved to November 19th. I should have just left it the way it was originally. Oh well, life happens, right?! I am more comfortable with these dates anyway, being that I need to be functional on Halloween with my 7 & 3 year old. Trick or treating is more important than new bubblies! On the plus side, thanksgiving break a handful of days after my surgery will give me five more days off. I plan to have Wednesday thru Friday off (19th-21st), plus the weekend. Will work half days the Monday & Tuesday after, and from there, play it by how I feel...finish out that week and the next week I believe is thanksgiving, which I will only work two days since the office is closed the other three. Woot woot! Enough babbles, time for some tv & a beer! Hope all you ladies out there are doing well with journeys, recoveries & everything!! Updated on 7 Nov 2014: So...well...yeah, it's been a long while since I have been on. Looks like it's been about a month. I just kind of got out of boobie mode. I was having a lot of anxiety/freak outs about surgery & payment. All is well now. Today I had my consult & pre - op appt!! Yes! I met the staff at Dr. Keller's office, and they are wonderful! The coordinator & nurse are fantastic. Dr. Keller was really amazing as well. He explained the procedure how sizing coordinates with a person's body measurements. Now, let me just say...it is really weird standing in a room with three people (one being my Hubs), staring at me while I stand there in a pair of shoes, jeans, no shirt & no bra. I felt so silly. And the measuring part, that was different...but it all worked out great. The nurse grabbed a couple silicone sizes from the cabinet and grabbed a funny bra for me to put on. But, before I could put the bra on with the sizers, the PS sat in front of me and lined up a 339 cc moderate profile with both breasts one at a time. He said that it was the perfect size...it couldn't be more perfect. Hold up, wait a minute!!??! That's the first thought that went through my head. Pffft. But he started explain the profile, which I understood from all my boobie reading over the last year. Moderate wasn't a profile that I had considered. I was pretty set on a mod+ @ 400cc. Thank goodness that wasn't an option for me to try. I am pretty sure I would look like a ding bat with giant knockers. Moving forward...i put on the silly bra and stuck those 339's in there. They looked surprisingly great!! Almost exactly the look I was going for but... felt I needed bigger. I fear boobie greed. And, knowing that it was a moderate profile I knew I wouldn't really have much option. The PS reiterated a couple times that his goal is to give women the natural slope and not go fake or crazy business with it. Which, I understand. I did ask the nurse to let me try on the 371cc. She tried to deter me from it but I told her I really wanted to try it. She went and got Dr. Keller, he explained to me that going to the 371 might mean that he has to make a little extra room for it, just a tiny bit. I am totally okay with that. I will have amazing side boob! Yesss! He also stated that he thought going to the 371cc was totally doable. Even better! *high five* After Dr. K gave his approval for my sizing wishes, Hubs & I sat down with the nurse and went over everything to do with recovery, meds, sleeping, bras, warning signs...they stressed the DO NOT LIFT rule & if it hurts, don't do it either rule. The nurse explained my scripts to me as well. Hydros & Valium. We shall see how that goes. Hmmm. I was surprise that there was no antibiotic, but, they know best. At the end of the appt, the coordinator came in, I paid for everything and was on my way! So...it all went great!! I am STOKED! Oh, AND, they moved my surgery time from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Booo! I'm going to starve to death!!! Stats & Info Age: 29 Height: 5'3" Weight: 119 (ish) Current size: 34B/32C Implant: Natrelle 371cc Profile: Moderate I think I will be extremely happy with my results. I think this will definitely put me at a solid 32D if not a 32DD. Yayayaya!!! It's all about the boobies now! Just shy of 12 days! Pumped! :) Updated on 9 Nov 2014: Oh emmm geee! So little time! T minus 9 D 22 h! Woot woot. And actually it's 9 D 21 hours since I have to be there at noon for surgery at 1:00. I am so ecstatic & nervous & crazy right now. My brain is going a million miles a minute with all the things I need to plan for the kiddos. I need to get my scripts filled. And look into an additional sports bra that I can wear without totally smashing myself. I have two already, but I think they may be a little tight at first. I also need to find a couple good support/sport - ish bras to wear to work. Not all clothes work well with a sports bra. Please give me suggestions!!! I need to keep the prices reasonable though. :) Updated on 12 Nov 2014: I am officially a week away from surgery....And I am freaking the heck out. All the arrangements I have to make are stressing me out. Everything I had already set up keeps changing and I am very irritated. I am trying to be excited but it's really hard at this point. So frustrating. Updated on 12 Nov 2014: Welp, I think I have all the plans worked out, AGAIN. People better not flake on me! Or I will start karate chopping them! In other news...BOOBS! Yes! So excited!! *boobieville, here I come* Updated on 13 Nov 2014: I received a call from the surgery center where I will be having my procedure done - just informing me of the date & times I need to know: Date - November 19th Surgery Time - 1:00 pm Arrival Time - 11:45 am Then the lady told me all the do & don't do things to remember. It was a quick call, but whoa, THIS IS REALLY HAPPENING! I also had to fill out a medical info thing online. And again, OMG, IM DOING THIS! AHHHHH! :) Updated on 15 Nov 2014: I am sittin' at 3 days & 14 hours. And oh lord help me! On the outside, I'm keeping it calm and cool. On the inside, I have ADHD and I am freaking the heck out. All these thinks I might need? Well, not really. My mom will have tons of stuff at her house. But I think I will need some gel cold packs and another bra that's a little bigger than the two I already purchased. I have been wondering about getting hydrated before surgery? I mean, like starting tomorrow til Tuesday night, loading up on water. I have seen several comments online about drinking lots of water. But what do I know, I have never had surgery on anything before. And what about BioOil? Is that something I should get?! Do I need to get Vit. E pills to take afterward to help me heal? And silicone scar strips? Do I need those? As you can tell, I have lost my damn mind!! But I am so excited! So so excited. Updated on 17 Nov 2014: Is it normal to be totally on edge and freaking out about BA surgery?! I am at the 2 days & 2 hours mark, and my nerves are on overdrive! Anxiety has sky rocketed. Why am I so unstable about this?! I dont feel like I need to back out of surgery by any means, but wow, I just cant get a grip! I am so excited and crazy right now. I am really not worried about the surgery. I believe everything will be fine. I am worried about the waking up part...haha. I hope I dont start saying all kinds of craziness, although it would be funny. And I keep thinking about the pressure and not being able to breathe when I wake up. I have read a few stories on here that ladies have posted about waking up in this horrid pain. I really hope that doesnt happen to me. I feel like I am active enough in my life that I wont have a super hard time moving around, but I dont know. I have never had surgery before for any reason - which doesnt help the freaking out. I am almost shaking right now...I hope this goes away!! I still have so much to get together before I go in on Wednesday. Packing for myself and the kids. Getting the kids dropped off where they are supposed to be. Making sure I have all my earrings & lip ring removed. Trying to drink tons of water or tea to stay hydrated. Laundry, cleaning the house, deep breathes so I dont pass out from anxiety. What is wrong with me!!!? I am so scared that I will be in so much pain. But, I have friends that are reassuring me that all will be okay. I am hoping they are right. Whew...breathe... And I cant sleep at night! So I am tired and freaking out. Ackkk! Updated on 18 Nov 2014: OHHH EMMM GEEE! That is all I can say right now. Tomorrow! Its tomorrow! The time is finally here and I am so....ahhhh! Haha. I am so worried about the pain and pressure. I know I will be okay. But, I cant help it! Breathe...breathe...it will be okay! Right??! Sheesh. Today is my last day on this side of the fence! And I am so happy about it. :) Bring on Boobieville! Updated on 21 Nov 2014: I did it! And I would do it again. I am a little tired right now but will give an update on everything later. The check in, surgery and recovery was outstanding! I am so in love with my new girls! Updated on 17 Jan 2015: It's definitely been a long while since I hVe been on here. I guess the excitement of preparing and actually having surgery really keeps people going on their updates. I've the last almost four weeks I have been able to lay and sleep on my stomach with little to no issues, although sometimes I feel like I am laying on water balloons that are going to burst, which then freaks me out so I roll to the side. Haha. Also, since I went a few CC bigger than what my PS originally picked, as he had mentioned, I would hVe more nerve issues closer to my armpits due to the width of the implants. The first couple weeks, I could really feel a hot burning sensation if I lifted my right arm to high or extended it out too far. Right around the 5 to 6 weeks mark, that started to subside. I have had all my appts over the course of the last two months as well, and my PS & his lovely nurse both stated that they are happy with my choice in size....and having them say that was awesome!! I am done with check ups now (and honestly I am a little sad about it...makes me feel like the journey is over. :( Any who....let me just say that finally making the decision and arrangements to have surgery was THE BEST decision I have made, like, ever!! I love them so much. The size is perfect for me, the shape has been great the whole time, they feel so awesome (I love to touch them and squeeze them! Just because I can! Hehe!) If anyone reading my story is still on the fence about going through with it, I really recommend doing your research, finding a PS that you really mesh with, listened no to your PS recommendations on size and profile (but also express your wants)....and lastly, JUST DO IT!!!! I will follow this post with some pictures later today. I have some stickers and things to add for edits in my photos first....but I have several photos too. PS - YAYAYAYAYAAAA for tatas!! ( . Y . ) Updated on 17 Jan 2015: I decided not to deal with edits and stuff. Hopefully that decision won't kick me in the butt later. I get paranoid that these things will surface. But, here goes nothin!! All pics should have time stamp on them. I think they are looking FAB! Updated on 17 Jan 2015: The site has my surgery date wrong. Not sure how to change that but I states that I am 3 months post-op...i am actually two months post-op. Just FYI. Updated on 7 Feb 2015: Over the last couple days I have had some odd soreness and some burning feelings in my incision areas. Other than that, the ta-tas are still amazing. No regrets!
I have had large breast most of my life. Didn't mind them much until about 7 years ago when I started having issues with my back and neck. I am a massage therapist and they just got in the way all the time. We had met our deductible on our insurance last year so I made the call to my insurance company and asked for a Plastic Surgeon who was in my network. I was referred to Dr John Keller in Lawrence, KS. I am so pleased with the surgeon and my outcome. The amount listed is what I have spent so far, still waiting for insurance to finalize. Updated on 15 Jan 2013: I am now 27 days post op, the itching for the past 2 days has been horrible. I have had to take Benadryl and use an anti itch cream on my breasts. I know its a sign of healing, but good grief, I can only scratch my breasts in public so many times before people start looking at me strangely. My being a good patient is thinning. At least I can partially lay on one side with the help of a couple of pillows. Ok, rant over! :-) Updated on 16 Jan 2013: Benadryl is helping very much, itching is not so bad. It's amazing how much better I feel in just the last 5 days. I am a massage therapist and have decided that next week I can start scheduling clients. Will start out slow for the first week, so I don't over due myself and cause any set backs. Tomorrow I will be 4 weeks post op. Also, I failed to mention in my initial post: 804 grams was removed from my right breast and 769 grams from my left. My right breast was more dense. Updated on 16 Jan 2013: Taking the following homeopathic supplements to aide in healing; Arnica Montana to reduce bruising, Horsetail to help heal the skin, Bromelain to reduce inflammation. I started taking the Horsetail and Bromelain 2 weeks prior to surgery and immediately after surgery added the Arnica, 3 tablets - 3 times daily along with the 500 mg of Horsetail 2 times daily and 500 mg of Bromelain 3 times daily for 2 weeks. I no longer take the Arnica Montana, but I am still taking the Horsetail and Bromelain. I also follow the Eat Right For Your Blood Type Diet, started this diet in January of 2010, I keep my body very alkaline (this aides in healing) You can purchase Ph strips at the health food store, I try to keep my saliva Ph at 7.0-7.2. I was very strict on my diet for one month prior to surgery, restricted all sugars and ate healthy and at least 1 raw food meal a day. I have mixed my own scar remedy; Organic Rosehip Oil, Chamomile, Frankincense, Myrrh and Helichrysum. 10 drops of Chamomile, 10 Drops of Frankencense, 5 drops of Myrrh, 5 drops of Helichrysum, all these added to 50 mil bottle of Rosehip Oil. Tips for after surgery: 1. Might need to bring some form of cough drop, being intubated made my throat very sore and hurt to swallow - Ricola cough drops helped. 2. My mouth was VERY dry after surgery for several hours, from the anesthesia, cough drops helped with that. 3. Bring a pillow for the car ride home, I placed it over my chest to keep seat belt off the new girls. Also gave me extra protection from bumps in the road. 4. If it's wintertime, make sure your ride home warms up the car, getting hard nipples is really painful, at least for me it was. 5. I had to replace the gauze daily, I bought several boxes of rolled gauze. I only had a small discharge for about 3 days afterwards. My drains were removed the next day by my surgeon before I was discharged from the hospital. I would lay down on my bed with my surgical bra on, but opened in the front. My hubby would start under my armpit area and unroll the gauze across both breasts to the other side and go back and forth, then secure the bra. I did this for the first 10 days, the gauze gave me some extra padding, my nipples were really sensitive and rubbed on my surgical bra. 6. Hydrogen Peroxide is great for washing blood stains out of your bras. 7. Buy a second surgical bra, best advice I ever followed. Those surgical bras need to air dry, so it was nice to have a second clean bra to wear. I tried to wear the sports bra like recommended, but the bra rode on my anchor incisions and hurt. 8. Get plenty of rest, take naps and drink lots of water. The pain meds will make you feel like you "feel good" don't push it. I almost fainted twice in the first 5 days. I was up moving around too much. 9. Eat healthy, avoid salty things, they make you retain water. 10. If you have a family to take care, prepare easy meals ahead of time and put them in the freezer. Updated on 18 Jan 2013: Just an update, 4 days ago I noticed these tiny red spots around both of my areolas. They itch like crazy, so I called the surgical nurse and she said the Bacitracin cream they told me to use was causing an allergic reaction, so stop using it. Had to take some benadryl and use an anti itch cream on the area. That helped a lot and they are starting to clear up. Posted a close up pic of one a breast so others could see the spots. Updated on 20 Jan 2013: Removed the surgical tape last night from my anchor incisions. Very pleased with the scars and how smooth they look. Slathered my essential oil blend I made for scars before bed time. I do plan on applying the surgical tape the the T junction under each breast for awhile longer. This seems to be the area that is most likely to open, and I don't want that to happen!! I return to work tomorrow, I am a massage therapist and work from my home, will also wear my surgical bra for added support. Updated on 26 Jan 2013: Saw my PS last week, I have 4 areas on the right breast where stitches are starting to spit out. They look like tiny whiteheads, one on my vertical incision under the right areola actually came to a head like a pimple. I used some hydrogen peroxide on it and it sort of popped and a small amount of clear fluid came out. I can see the stitch. I have 3 around the edge of my areola too, I can feel 2 of them when I rub my finger over them. The PS said, "keep them clean, leave them alone, DON'T pull them out, they will come to the surface like a splinter!!!!" So I do just that, clean them with peroxide and keep them moisturized with my essential oil blend. I am able to massage the girls with more pressure, they are starting to loosen up and move around. It is not too painful to massage now as it was at week 3. I am still numb across the bottom of both breasts. I do get some really sharp pains, twinges, zings, in both breasts. Some make me stop what I am doing and breathe for a few minutes till they pass. I am a massage therapist and this past week started back to work. I work from my home, so I can set my own schedule. I wear my surgical bra still while working and still apply the surgical tape across the T junction and my anchor incisions. Just like the extra support since I am reaching and using both arms. I love that I can sit down to eat a meal with ease, no more food in my bra of on my boob shelf, no more straining my neck forward to not drop food on the boobs. I can sit in a booth at a restaurant and not have my boobs resting on the table. My posture has improved so much and I feel great. Even doing massage is so much easier for me, I don't have to lean forward so much to see my hands. I can keep my back straighter, which keeps my low back much happier! Updated on 27 Jan 2013: Added new pics! Updated on 30 Jan 2013: Received some more bills for the surgery, will update soon. Monday I caught this crappy crud going around, ran a fever of 102 for 2 days, coughing so hard, my ribs are so sore it brings me to tears now. Thanks to the butt head that couldn't stay home when they were sick last week on the 2 days I got out of my house. Updated on 22 Feb 2013: I have received all the final bills, total charges were $16,000, my out of pocket was $2000. I have been released by my PS about 3 weeks ago. Healing nicely, girls have softened up. My anchor incisions under my arms are tender some days, I get sharp zings in them. Some small zings and little pains in the breasts still, but the PS told me that could happen for up to a year. Been bra shopping and I am now in a 42 D, I love Bali bras, those are so comfortable for me.
After years of of taking care of others, both professionally and personally and having people continually tell me that I should "do something" for myself, I did! 6 weeks ago I had a BL/TT. I thought about and had saved money from the household/grocery budget for 3 years before having my surgery. I wasn't really afraid of anything much more than how dirty I knew my house would get during my recuperation. Oh, that's not true, I also worried about how my friends and family would take my decision to do this...so I didn't tell most of them. I mean, I have always preached to "be happy with who you are" etc, and plastic surgery screams, "I am not happy with who I am." Actually I was just not happy with how I looked. Going into the PS office was a real trip as most of the people who work there look like Barbie dolls...perfect in every way. I can see how people get hooked on cosmetic surgery. I was very conscious that my lifetime of living and working outside showed on my face and that as I have aged "sturdy" had become "chubby" somehow and I didn't like it. Before the 6 hour surgery my husband just couldn't believe how rock solid my BP was. I really wasn't afraid of going under and I trusted my Dr. implicitly. I knew it was going to be painful afterward but was totally ok with it. I like to think that I am a tough old broad. Now, 6 weeks post op, I confess I am getting really tired of the twinges, pain, limitations, and fatigue. I have worked hard at getting back on my feet. I am not superwoman, just a housewife and mother of many children. I may not have had to go "back to work" 2 weeks after my surgery but surely did have to get up and clean the house, do the dishes, let the dogs in and out, pick up kids from the bus, fix supper, run laundry etc. etc. so even though a stay at home mom I wasn't exactly eating bon bons while watching Lifetime! hmmm I detect a bit of emotion at that statement! :0) I am now walking 30 minutes, at the slow pace of 2.5, on the inclined treadmill every day. The house is almost spotless, as usual. The meals I am cooking for my large family are above average for me. I am counting every calorie that goes into my mouth and have lost 13.6 pounds. I started lifted small weights for my arms last week. I studiously avoid complaining of pain to anyone, (seriously, my pretty little breasts are bugging me to death!) but somedays I really feel the "pull" and yesterday I yelled at one of my dogs. In other words, I am really trying hard to keep it together right now. My Dr. is a doll, always polite and respectful, and his nurse is a sweetheart, so please don't get me wrong on this. They are running a business...a very lucrative business, and it is all business, I understand that. I have actually gotten most of my information, reassurance and encouragement from this website. Probably a personal problem on my part but I feel silly for asking questions at the Dr.s office. The answer is always either, "never heard of that issue before","most people are up and back to work in a few weeks," or "everyone feels that way." It seems less humiliating to just research it myself. As I put the before and after pics on this site/link/blog thingy I confess that I am a little disappointed at how I look. In my head I thought I looked slim and trim, but pictures don't lie. I am not sure that the foto's came out very clear so will adjust it later if I can figure out how to. I am not sorry that I had the surgery, but at this point I don't think that I can truthfully say that I am "glad" that I did. I am confident that these feelings of uncertainty will pass and surely, surely, surely do appreciate all that I have read on this website...which is why I am posting my thoughts here as well. Bless you all for sharing, you have been a huge help to me! Updated on 19 Feb 2012: Not quite 8 weeks post op and I have to say that the TT is really doing well. The swelling post exercise is really helped if I remember to wear the binder. I am slowly but steadily losing weight which is encouraging....during the week, that is. When my husband is home over the weekend he wants to go out and eat and I have to really use restraint! Just about all restaraunt food is loaded with sodium and I swell up like a balloon before we even get home!! I continue to have continual irritation with ,y pretty little breasts. The underarm suture is puffy and sore and every type of bra irritates it. The underside of my breasts remains red and sensitive and my nipples are on high alert at all times!!! I told all this to my PS last month but he didn't really seem too interested or alarmed...I am guessing if his breasts hurt like this he would be a little more compassionate. Ha! I go back to see him next week so plan to whine about it to him then. I have tried going bra-less, which is my ultimate goal anyway, but the tearing pain under my arms coupled with the super sensitive nipples makes this a no go. Sure could use some advise and encouragement from someone...any one! Updated on 8 Mar 2012: 10 weeks post op now and still dropping weight, though much slower now. Having a huge issue with painful abdominal swelling after walking on the treadmill (@ 3.0 & 6 incline for 30 min/day) I wear the cg when doing anything like vacuuming or exercise but really puff up which is uncomfortable and discouraging. I do like my reflection in the mirror most of the time which is a first in easily 20 years so that is a fun thing. I have mercilessly weaned out and cleaned my closet...it looks like a little mini boutique which is so fun!! Iam now using the expensive silicone strips on ,y breasts in hopes of some relief. I think that since the tt area is numb I just don't notice the healing process there. Really, though, the tt scar is very thin, pale and flat already! Not so the bl scar which is red, ropy and burny type pain. I wish I hadn't waited until I was 57 years old to do this for myself. None of my family really understands why I did this and I only told a very few select friends so I am sincerely glad for this site and all the honest transparency of my fellow posters. What a sweet bunch of gals you all are! Updated on 26 Apr 2012: 4 months post op today.................36-27-37....126 pounds...................I kid you not!!! I can't believe it!!! Seriously just wish that my right breast didn't still hurt so much and that I could find a bra that didn't bug the life out of me, I have probably bought about 25 bras since surgery and after a few hours/minutes hate them all. BUT, if I close my eyes and think really hard, I have to admit, it is getting somewhat better.Updated on 22 Aug 2012:Almost 8 months po now...hard to believe! I was visiting with a friend about it today and the walk down memory lane was kind of fun. It has been a life lesson on the importance of stepping back and seeing the big picture and not getting caught up in the tiny trials of day to day. I am so pleased with how it has all unfolded and really, really wish I had done this years ago. The weight continues to come down, slowly and surely. I am at 120 now and a solid size 4. More importantly, when I look at my body now I see a strong and fit woman..."older" to be sure...but strong and healthy. At almost 58 I can now run a mile with the bonus of no more body parts jouncing up and down as I go down the road. I tried to post a pic but am hopelessy inept at it but may try agin later. Hope all of you are as happy with your results as I am!!
I gave birth to two 10# c section babies over 20 years ago. I work out several times per week and my real age (per Dr. Oz) is five years younger than CA! TT/ muscle repair/ Lipo is long overdue and I can't wait to see my new belly. I feel that nesting feeling coming on as I won't be able to clean house for a long time
Thank all you ladies for sharing your experiences! It has inspired me to do the same! Heres my story: Two years ago when I was 19 I decided to get a breast augmentation. I didn't get a breast aug. because I was uncomfortable with the size of my breasts or anything like that, I decided to have a breast augmentation to correct my tuberous breasts. I was born with tubular breast deformity, which is where the bottom half of your breasts appear to be constricted. During my breast augmentation, my plastic surgeon tried expanding the constricted tissue underneath my breasts. He placed 300cc saline implants in both breasts. As you can see in the photos I posted, my breasts look a lot nicer in the after pictures. My plastic surgeon told me that to get my desired look, I would probably require a lift in the future. It's now been a little over 2 years since my initial breast augmentation. Since then my left breast (right in photos) has dropped a fair amount due to my breast tissue being so thin. I've talked with my plastic surgeon who says I could have a lift to potentially correct this issue, but over time I would most likely have the same outcome due to gravity. If I got a lift, he would try to pull what breast tissue I have together- but overtime I would most likely face the same issue of being able to feel and see the texture of my implant. Since my breast tissue is so thin on my left breast (right in photos), I feel like it's impossible for me to enjoy my hobbies. I love to go on runs- but since my breast tissue is so thin, I don't feel comfortable running. When I go on runs I can feel my implant bouncing around-it's almost like I'm running with a water balloon in my sports bra. All these factors have led me to make the decision to get my implants removed. I met with my plastic surgeon today and booked the date. The countdown is on! If anyone else has had tuberous breast or breasts with little tissue and has gotten their implants removed I would love to see the outcome. I know my breasts won't be pretty afterwards, but that's okay with me! Updated on 21 Apr 2015: So I had uploaded photos during my first post, which are kind of out dated!!!! I am uploading current photos I just took to show how my implant has fallen down on the left side (right in photos)!!! It just feels so heavy!!!! I'm so glad I have a plastic surgeon who is confident in taking them out!!! My explant isn't until June 17th, and I couldn't be more excited!!!!! Updated on 23 Apr 2015: I've been searching through stories on realself looking for women who have had an explant with thin breast tissue... I haven't had much luck finding anyone explanting with thin tissue... My breasts have very little tissue on the bottom pole; My tissue is so thin you can see my implant protruding through my skin!! I'm just curious if anyone has had an explant with very little breast tissue left.. I'm curious to what my post-operation breasts will look like!! :) If anyone could help me with this question, I would be very relieved!! :) Updated on 7 Jun 2015: Soooo.... I havent updated anyone on how I've been doing lately... Been slacking on making posts! Instead I've been scrolling through all your guys' stories looking at your fabulous outcomes hoping I'll experience similar results! I had my pre-op appointment June 1st... Paid for my surgery and had last minute questions answered!! I got my vacation time approved at work... My surgery is now 100% official!!! The nerves are beginning to settle in... A million questions are floating around in my mind.. Will my sweet, caring boyfriend still find me attractive? My breasts aren't much to drool over now, but who knows if explanation will make them worse... Will my results be desirable? One breast is like a rock in a sock when I bend over... which means there will prob be a lot of extra skin! I'm young though, 22 yo, so hopefully my skin will retract fast... I hope my surgery goes well... There are more positives than negatives!!! Tomorrow I'm going to post more photos of what my breasts look like currently so you guys and myself will have better opportunity to compare them to my post op self!! THANKS TO ALL YOU LADIES FOR YOUR SUPPORT:) Updated on 17 Jun 2015: I just had my surgery! I am feeling very sore.... but I know that will go away when my pain meds kick in!!!! I want to take a sneak peek so badly.. but I have an appointment with my surgeon tomorrow at 9AM... so my curiosity can wait!!!!! I'M SO GLAD THIS IS OVER WITH!!!!!! I'll keep you all updated with photos when I can!!!!!! Updated on 18 Jun 2015: I just had my first post-op appointment to get my drains looked at!!!! One was clogged up so they had to fix it!!! I'm still pretty sore and hope that I heal super fast--- Have to go back to work on Thursday!! I'm still not allowed to take my post-op bra off so I can't update with photos! I got a little sneak peek during my appointment and they didn't look as bad as I thought they would, but then again I didn't get a good view!! My next appointment is Monday, the 22nd.. so hopefully I can get photos then!!! Updated on 19 Jun 2015: Sooo how long did you all have to keep your drains in for??? And how often did you empty them?? One of mine keeps leaking, which is driving me nuts! My nurse told me to put a bandage over it, which has helped but not 100%! The area where my drains are is very tender and sore. A lot of posts I've read from ya'll make it seem so easy and painless! Pls comment with your experiences so I can see if anyone has experienced the same thing! :) Updated on 22 Jun 2015: So the outcome was just as I had excepted! My left breast went back to being tuberous.. but that is okay with me! I'm going to be able to live life with NO RESTRICTIONS! I can go on runs, sleep on my stomach, etc. Without feeling like my implant is going to POP out of my skin! I'm glad my boyfriend has been so supportive! These photos I'm posting are 5 days post op!! I know they're still forming.. my doctor said my skin will continue to retract! I continue to update with more pics soon!! I still have a drain attached to the left breast (right in photos)! Updated on 23 Jun 2015: Today is day 6:):):) I'm feeling great!!!! I took some more photos for everyone today!! I'm hopeful that once I get my last drain removed, my massages and firming lotion will do wonders for my limpy/flappy breast.. LOL!!! Updated on 5 Jul 2015: It's been a little over two weeks since my explant! I couldn't be happier!!! I don't feel top heavy & I don't have an implant tugging and pulling my skin anymore! It's such a relief! I think I see progress with my breasts in these current photos!:) I am not really concerned with how my breast look, but it is a plus they are looking better now! The only concern I have for myself now is following my post-op weight restrictions! My job requires me to do heavy lifing-over 10 lbs, and my weight restriction is 10# for 4 weeks.. Hopefully I can try to take it easy for a couple more weeks! Updated on 5 Jul 2015:
