With more than 10,000 breast augmentation surgeries performed during his career of more than 23 years, Dr. Horn is known in the Chicagoland area as the authority on breast augmentation. His artistic eye, mastery and surgical skill in performing various face and body procedures, his dedication to patients’ safety, combined with his focus on unparalleled care and attention, make him one of the most sought-after surgeons in the Midwest. Dr. Horn is grateful to those patients who have chosen him to be part of their journey and he is committed to doing anything to maintain the trust they put in him. “My goal is patient satisfaction and achieving the type of results that make every patient say, ‘I am so glad I did it!’” Dr. Horn earned his medical degree at Loyola University in Chicago. He completed a general surgery residency with the Medical College of Wisconsin, as well as a sub-specialty training in plastic surgery with a second residency at Loyola University. Dr. Michael Horn is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Chicago Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Horn is a frequent lecturer on the subject of plastic surgery and his work has been featured in several professional publications. He frequently attends national meetings to continue developing innovative plastic surgery techniques. His ongoing commitment to patient safety and satisfaction is evident in the personal attention and care he provides to each of his plastic surgery clients. From the initial consultation to the final follow-up exam, Dr. Horn provides compassionate treatment tailored to the specific needs and goals of each individual. Dr. Horn believes that patients should have the flexibility of choosing between surgical and non-surgical procedures to accomplish their aesthetic goals. In his view, surgical options should be paralleled by an array of non-invasive treatments that can maintain and improve on those results. This is why at his full-service Med Spa, patients are greeted by a knowledgeable and caring team trained in the latest and most effective technology and procedures.
I had surgery with Dr.Horn in February 2024 for a replacement of ruptured implants, capsulorrhaphy on left side and galaflex. I previously had surgery with Dr.Horn in 2015 and 2016 for implant size exchange. I met with Dr.Horn and Trish and they both made me feel at ease to move forward with the procedure. They recommended the galaflex and going with a smaller implant to prevent any complications. Day of surgery nurse Barbara, Brittany and Dr.Mack made me feel completely comfortable. Day after surgery I met a nurse to change my bandage and get me into a sport bra. I brought several and let her pick. At my 6 week check up I expressed some concerns of a slight bottoming on left and bump on center right Dr.Horn informed me I was wearing the wrong bra and picked a different one I brought that day and instructed me to try the string method so of course I did, then 3 month check I still had concerns Dr.Horn recommended the thong bra so at my 6month he recommended I continue wearing it and he eased my mind by reminding me I'm still healing until the one year mark. So I'm in month 8 and still wearing garmet/thong bra 24/7 and trusting the process. He assured me it would be fine or he'd fix it. He's amazing doctor and I trust him. Just get nervous about the process as this time around is a little different from the first two. Attached are photos before, during and currently. Will update at my one year check up. Stay tuned
I recently underwent a breast augmentation with Dr. Horn in Chicago and could not be happier with the results! I went with a silicone gummy bear implant that is 330cc moderate profile. I'm currently 1 week post opp
I had a breast implant removal/replacement and lift. Dr Horn is amazing. HIs consultation can be brief but don't let that steer you away. I took that as a sign of confidence with a Dr who doesn't have time to waste. After 2 days I had zero pain and was back to regular activity (avoiding lifting and rules given). I am so happy with this surgeon and plan to return for liposuction in the near future.
38 year old mother of 2. After breast feeding both my kids I was left with deflated breast and excessive axillary tissue. I had breast implants 13 years ago, so I decided to do a removal and a replacement, peri-areola lift, and excision of axillary tissue. I flew in from a small town in Washington state to see the renowned Dr.Horn. The office staff made the whole process so easy for me. I was on a limited time schedule a huge shout out to Diana who helped coordinate all my appointments with patience and kindness. I did my initial consult via zoom. Dr. Horn was direct and energetic. I was nervous, because a few mentioned his lack of bedside “warmth.” Personally though I found him to be pleasant and what I expected from a busy plastic surgeon. 11/18/22 surgery day The pre-op nurse was amazing. The nurse was calm, funny, and kind. She wrapped in a warm blanket and made me feel comfortable. She spent time in the room chatting with me while we wanted for the MD. Dr.Horn came and marked me up. He was very detailed with making sure measurement and plan was in place. I appreciated his attention to detail. I was the last case of the day and did not see Dr.Horn after the surgery was completed, but honestly it was a Friday and I wouldn’t expect the MD to stay late with the last case of of the day unless something went wrong with the surgery. I went 485 in the left and 520 in left to help with asymmetry. 11/19/22 Post op appt went well. Pain was moderate. During the day I only took 1 pain medication and then 1 before bed. Icing and using acetaminophen. At times I get dizzy, but I’m resting as much as possible. I’ll post 6 week photos as well Below is post surgery and then my post op breast. Dr. Horn did a great job, and finally results will take time. I hope this review/story helps anyone else thinking of going through the same process. Updated on 22 Nov 2022: Already obsessed with Dr.Horn’s work! Loving the symmetry. If you are on the fence about going to him just pick up the phone and make the appointment. You won’t regret it. His attention to detail to make sure I would have the most symmetrical result was amazing. He repositioned my nipples, removed from skin from below my left breast, and advised 2 different size implants. I can’t wait to feel confident in tank tops this summer. Updated on 26 Nov 2022: One week post op! I loved that other women shared their stories on this forum, so I’m trying to help others by doing the same.I’m still over the moon with my results. The right is higher and tighter, but most likely because it has a the larger implant. Other women were 100% right when they said a revision is less painful than the initial augmentation. I take Tylenol for any pain, but honestly my incisions from the axillary tissue removal hurts more. I hate sleeping on my back (I’m a side sleeper), so I can’t wait to curl up on my side again:) Dr.Horn’s staff is still going above and beyond to help guide me through this even though I’m out of state. In fact I was concerned about my armpit scars and the rn was quick to respond, and is mailing me some cream to help. I hope that more of Dr.Horns patients will share their stories, because it’s a huge asset when trying to find a plastic surgeon. My only regret is that I didn’t go to him for first augmentation in 2010 :) Updated on 26 Nov 2022: For some reason my before photos were taken down. I just want to share the before pictures so women researching Dr.horn can see what a difference he made. My first surgery 13yrs ago didn’t address the asymmetry of my breast/areola. After having kids you see they deflated and my axillary tissue expanded. As you can see in my post op pics Dr Horn customized a plan to help with asymmetry. I always hear that breast are supposed to be sisters…not twins; however, I felt like mine were more like two friends who shared the same haircut until Dr. Horn fixed them. Updated on 29 Nov 2022: God bless nurses like Dr. Horn’s. My right armpit would is getting red and in my panicked mind “opening.” I spent a good 30mins trying to apply some expired steri-strips and even tried to get my poor husband to help me apply them while soothing a hungry 2 year old pulling on my leg. I finally gave up and sent a message to Dr.Horn’s office. The RN was so prompt in responding and called me. She is soo knowledgeable and said this is normal for high motion area. I loved her reassuring kindness. I feel like the cosmetic industry would be a hard field to work in since it’s a high demand for “perfection,” but the RN is so kind. Updated on 27 Jan 2023: The swelling has pretty much gone down. I was pretty asymmetrical to begin with, so I’m ok with the difference…only regret is that I didn’t go bigger to get a more “rounded-augmented” look. His nursing staff has been sensational throughout the post op ups and downs.
This was my second breast augmentation with Dr. Horn...9 years apart. I went with silicone gummies this time around. I'm extremely pleased with the results, my only regret is that I didn't get bigger ones,lol, but otherwise no complaints!! The entire staff was pleasant and answered all my questions in a timely manner.
I got 415cc round high profile i am 5 weeks post op i went under the muscle recovery was painful at first but im back to my regular life and working out minus heavy lifting with my upper body i still feel tenderness and massage often i wanted implants to fill my volume loss and give me a rounder breas
I had breast augmentation with Dr Horn 9 weeks ago. Every office staff member has been wonderful and gave quick responses every time I reached out. My results are better than I expected and I am very very happy. Even right after surgery, I barely had any bruising. Dr Horn is a responsible and safe surgeon and guided me on what size would look appropriate on my body and why, I’m glad I trusted him, the size is perfect on my frame. I’ve never waited more than 5 minutes at any of my appts, always on time. Also, had Botox for the first time with Cassie and she made me feel really comfortable and my results look great. Thank you Dr Horn and staff
Dr. Horn did a fantastic job with my breast augmentation in June 2020. I loved his work so much that in Dec. 2021, Dr. Horn did my abdominoplasty. Both results are absolutely amazing. Not only does Dr. Horn do an awesome job, his staff is phenomenal. They have gone above and beyond to ensure that my experience was a pleasant one. Jessica and Erin are very professional and definitely assets! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dr. Horn & his staff!
Hi! I am on my day 5 PO, and am excited to share on my size and how I am currently doing, but first I want to share all the details on my search, my consultation, my pre op, etc. I went into my breast augmentation journey knowing I wanted to go small- a subtle change that those close to me may notice, but those who didn't know me would think that I didn't have anything done. I was about an A on a good day, previously before birth control a double A. I've talked about getting a boob job for the longest time, and finally decided to make the leap into finding a dr and setting up a consultation after talking through with one of my friends who had a breast augmentation two years back. Research: In my first searches, I found that what I was looking for has coined the term "mini boob job". And I found that while this was a rising trend among women (getting boob jobs under 275ccs), there wasn't a ton of "before and after" gallery images showing these smaller sizes. I had to do a lot of searching- like hours on hours, days on days, of looking at boobs and trying to find some good examples of a smaller augmentation. I searched specific cc's, such as "205cc implants" "210cc implants, "240cc implants" you get the idea, and from there was able to find a decent amount of images pulled from galleries that showed me what those implants may look like. One story that I found online that provided a nice larger picture of a smaller boob job was of "Rrayyme". She is an influencer (never heard of her before my searches for mini boob jobs) and shared her journey on youtube, before and after her surgery. Highly recommend giving it a watch as it provides some good back story to what you may be getting yourself into. Of course everybody has a different experience and reacts differently, but she does a nice job outlining each step in the process, and I really enjoyed seeing her try on different types of clothes post op as it showed me how I may be able to play up a smaller size too. Anyways, I am getting a bit off topic- long story short after searching for what felt like forever, I feel like I was able to gather enough of an idea that I did not want above a 210cc and had a good idea of what to expect after surgery for recovery. Unfortunately, I didn't do all this research until after my consultation. I only say unfortunately because if I had some of this research, I could have brainstormed some more questions for my consultation or have been prepared with some images of what I liked and didn't like to show the Dr. Choosing a Dr.: I didn't really know where to start for finding a Dr. other than looking at "top breast augmentation surgeons in my area", then reading a bunch of reviews. The issue with that is, you find someone with great reviews, like 90% great reviews, but then read one of the 10% bad reviews and all of a sudden question if they're going to be a good Dr. I learned, there are always going to be people who had bad experiences or didn't get what they expected (perhaps due to lack of research or preparation) and can give a terrible review based on their personal experience. That doesn't mean the Dr. did anything wrong or botched. So, after getting past that realization, I narrowed in to a few Dr.'s that had some good all around reviews (above 4, 4.5 stars) and then looked at some real self reviews and result images as well. Also ***important*** make sure the doctor is board certified. In my search, I found a Dr. that said they performed the fast recovery breast augmentation and said they were board certified, only to search on the board's website and not find their name registered. The website to search is (https://www.abplasticsurgery.org/VerifyCert?sectionSurgeonSearch). Consultation: So, I narrowed down to my Dr, Dr.Horn, and set up for a consultation. He didn't charge for a consultation, which helped me feel less pressured and more like I was going in for just a consultation. I did some research on his social media presence and website and all looked ok to me. Now, when I went in for my consultation I will say it wasn't quite what I expected. I waited for a decent amount in the room until Dr Horn came in. Once he did, we introduced ourselves and he asked if I had any questions to discuss with him. I asked a few, and then he measured my breast width. There wasn't as much of a dialogue on the entire process and what to expect, and I probably spent a total of 15 minutes with Dr Horn himself. This is why I say that maybe if I did some research prior or had images to show, it would have been more beneficial. Regardless, he was willing to answer all and any questions and didn't rush me, it was more on my end unprepared as I didn't know I'd be asking more of the questions vs being walked through the process. After measuring my size, the care coordinator (Queenie) came in with a bra and a 240cc silicone implant for me to try on. That was the smallest they had in the office at the moment. I tried that on, and even knowing it would shrink 20% once in me, I knew that felt too big. Queenie went through with me what sizing would be best for me chest, looking at the tolerances with my breast width, and I was able to see what sizes I could safely work with (I've read after the fact this was important that you make sure you doc does). They did have a 3D imaging machine, but it was down that day so I didn't get to try it. I went into the consultation with a decent amount of knowledge from my own research prior, so I said to myself as long as I get a good vibe from the office and Dr I would feel confident scheduling my procedure. And, I did. I paid an initial fee then, and we scheduled a pre-op two weeks out (which then I would get to try the 3D imaging and they got a smaller 210cc implant for me to try on too). The pre-op is when the final payment would be due. Since this is getting a little long now, I'll write about my pre-op, surgery day, and post op experiences in following posts. Updated on 10 Mar 2021: Hi! Continuing my review, next was my pre op experience. As I mentioned, I researched a lot between my consultation and my pre op. So, in that time I put together a "wish board". (attached in my images). I sent this to the care coordinator at Dr. Horn's office and did not hear back for several days, so I followed up to confirm it was received. She replied back very brief and short saying she received it but the doctor is out and left her with the measurements necessary, which is great...but I don't think it would be very difficult to send through the images to the doctor for feedback (later at my pre op she mentioned in person she would show him the image, yet I never heard anything) especially when it is in regards to altering my body and I am paying thousands of dollars for this. (there were many instances with this care coordinator where I felt she was short in her replies and came off as my questions were an annoyance, which is not the experience I want to pay for. of course, that is all personal opinion. Some people may be fine with short and impersonal replies). Anyways, come to my pre-op, the care coordinator was very friendly in person (and to note, all the employees at the office front of Dr Horn were very friendly). We took before images and then I got to do the 3D imaging which was super helpful as cc's can look different on each persons body. I've attached some images of this. I decided to go with a 205cc low pus versus the 210cc moderate because the moderate would be about 1 cm more prominent outwards, and I didn't want that. Lots of people wish they had gone bigger, but a friend asked me would you rather wake up and wish you'd gone bigger or wish you had gone smaller. For me, the answer was that I rather wish I had gone bigger. This was also helpful to note to the care coordinator. After the 3D imaging, we went over the medications and the procedure and after care. This is unique to each doctor- and each doctor is knowledgeable in what they do so be sure to follow your own doctors instructions! I then was given my prescriptions and went to pick those up after my pre op. Next, was surgery day a week and a half later! Updated on 10 Mar 2021: I found out my Surgery time the day before surgery (because timing can be dependent on who and who didn't pass COVID tests). Mine was at 330 and I had to arrive 1.5 hours earlier. I couldn't eat or drink water from midnight the day of. This was a little tricky for me, but I kept myself busy which actually made time pass quickly. Before I knew it, it was time to go. This was my first time going under, so I was super nervous. Everyone at the operation center was very nice though, and the anesnteiologist was great. Dr Horn came in to answer any questions and mark me up. I will say even though I did not spend much time with Dr Horn prior to the surgery, I had great confidence in him due to his experience. He was always very friendly and ready to answer any questions too. Also, be sure to confirm your cc size with the doctor at this time! I almost forgot to, luckily Dr Horn brought it up with me while marking me up. After getting my IV and being marked up, I was taken to the room, laid down and covered in some cozy warm blankets, and given something to help me calm down. And bam, I woke up and was told I was done and my bf was ten minutes away. It really was just like everyone says, you just wake up with new boobs so quickly! I was a little groggy, but felt like I had my wits about me. I was wheeled out to my boyfriend and given lots of water. Luckily I didn't experience and nausea but I hear that can be a thing. I had my bf come prepared in the car with a protein smoothie, water (with straw), and my pain meds. I took one Tylenol #3 (codeine) so it would kick in when I got home. When we got home, I wasn't as tired. My chest felt very tight and I had to walk very slow and breathe slower too. But no bad pain. I actually never felt "pain", just tightness. I didn't take any more codeine either that day, just a muscle relaxer at night to help me sleep. For sleeping, I bought a wedge pillow that would keep me elevated and on my back. I drank lots of water. Oh, and I was extremely bloated in my tummy too (this lasted quite a while and now on day 7 PO I am less bloated but still not back to what I consider my normal). At Post op, I would get to remove my bandages and put on my front zip sports bra. Updated on 10 Mar 2021: Day 1 PO, I woke up feeling tight still, but improved a lot. I will preface my PO journey by saying I think I am extremely lucky to have felt such a quick recovery and minimal pain and soreness. I am an active person, hadn't been drinking much during these "covid quarantine" times, and keep a healthy diet. I do think these all attributed to my recovery, as well as taking vitamin C, ZINC, and protein smoothies (recommended by Dr Horn) in my PO days. At my Post op appt, I met with the nurse at Dr Horn's office. She was so friendly and made me feel good at my post op. She helped me out of my bandages and into my sports bra. I got a little nauseas during this, and she brought me a sprite and let me sit a while to get myself back together. This was the first time I saw my boobs, and they aren't lying when they are swollen and sit high. Just be sure you prepare yourself to not care how they look the first few days, even weeks! This is normal and they will soften. Something I had to consistently remind myself :) I scheduled my 6 weeks date and then went home. I had some follow up questions I sent the care coordinator, and unlike last time, she was much more personable and kind in her messaging which helped me feel better about having a support system at Dr Horns office. This was short lived though, as the following days her replies again became impersonal and made me feel like I was bothering. At this point, I am taking that with a grain of salt and will continue to ask a many questions as I need as this is something I paid a lot for and should be able to get as much support as I need. ( I will leave an overall summary of my review of Dr Horn in another post too, for those that are in the area and considering going to him. A quick spoiler- I would recommend Dr Horn to anyone looking, based on my 7 day post op experience) Updated on 10 Mar 2021: So, before i give my 1 week post up, I wanted to give a quick recap of my experience working with Dr Horn, more so for anyone in the IL area looking to get breast augmentation done. My main thing going into this was to select a surgeon I felt like was experienced, and I do feel happy with my choice to go with Dr Horn. He has tons of experience, and experience is important when someone is cutting into you! Cons (I like to get through these first and end on a positive note:) ) - very little time was spent with Dr Horn himself, however this didn't bother me as I felt confident from my previous research and really cared more about having an experienced surgeon. I also think I could've spent more time with him if I had more to ask in my consultation/brought my wish images there. -poor experience with support from the care coordinator via messaging. Again, take this with a grain of salt. She was great in person, it just would have been nice to have more personable messaging that showed she cared about my questions and giving me the best information to help me along my journey rather than feeling like I was a bother with asking a few questions. Pros - Dr Horn is very experienced- this is the biggest pro to me! They know what they're doing, which makes everything else less stressful. He understood right away that I wanted a natural look -Staff was very friendly, nurse is super kind and supportive -My surgery experience was way less stressful than I imagined, and that's coming from someone with anxiety. I was so surprised at how comfortable and smooth they made it all. -My recovery is going, so far, very smooth and ahead of what I read many others experience. I attribute part of this to me being healthy and taking care of myself up to the surgery, partly to having smaller implants, put in, and partly to Dr Horn and his team for the work they did! Overall, I think it's pretty easy to see the pros outweigh the cons :) Everyone's experience is different, so what is most important is how you feel with the Dr you meet with- what vibes you get with them and the confidence you have with their ability to help you achieve what you want. Updated on 10 Mar 2021: Now- my most current update! I am 7 days post op, woo! I mentioned a few times but I feel like I recovered exceptionally quick. I only took one codeine the entire time, on my way home from surgery. Other than that, I only took some Tylenol PM at night to help me sleep on my wedge pillow since it was an adjustment for me, as a side sleeper. This probably helped me feel better sooner overall too (Dr Horn mentioned to me the sooner I get off the harder pain meds, the quicker I may be able to feel better). I took it easy the first two days so my body could recover, just walking around the living room a little. Day 3 I tried to go for a little walk outside..not a great idea. I didn't want to get my heart rate up too much and it was hard to breathe and walk, so I figured best to keep walking around the living room. I have to keep telling myself while I may be feeling better everyday, my body still needs to rest so it can do its work healing. Day 5 I was able to go for a walk outside with less difficulty. I actually did two walks that day and felt good! I'm now at the point where I feel like I can do my normal long walks again. However, I make sure I am walking at a slower than my normal pace because I shouldn't start light exercise (per my dr's instructions) until week 2. Be sure to check in with your Dr. for what you can do! I've showered about 3 times, I see improvement everyday with what I can lift and how I can move my arms. Its pretty cool to see the body heal like it does and see progress each day. I do make sure not to strain it though. I have been doing my breast massages (3xs a day 5 minutes each, per my Dr instructions). I set three reminders on my phone so that I stay on top of it, as I have to do it for the first two months. I have even slipped into one of my regular sports bra's (no padding and still compresses my chest though, I got approval from the care coordinator, so again, do what you can with your Dr's approvals). My right side seems to have softened a little already, and am excited for my left to catch up! I read it is normal for them to soften at different paces. For me, my next milestone is week two and getting to do some more light exercising. I am a very active person so the hardest part is taking this long out from running & working out. I will post next at my 6 week! I think then my breasts will have softened up quite a bit, and can get a better read on their sizing even though it will still be a while until the full drop and fluff. Also, I forgot to mention at this stage I am happy with the size I chose! In some pics, they may look "small", such as the side view with my tank on. But this is what I wanted, I wanted more fullness with something that I could easily play up with a push up or a certain top. I wanted them to also still be "small", I like not wearing a bra and running a lot, and I want them to look like they could be my natural size. I am excited to have them drop and fluff and to try on with a few different bra styles and different outfits too! I do hope some of my experience is helpful for those looking to get a breast augmentation or choose a Dr! Especially for those looking to do a smaller implant size.
Ok so let me just start by saying I am a 34 y/o mom of 3 healthy breastfed boys. Im 5’2 140 lbs and after years of researching I have finally taken the plunge and booked my surgery. Im scheduled for today at 12:45pm and I must say Iam not nervous at all. Im super excited and cannot wait to update you guys after the procedure is done. I opted for 445cc natrelle moderate profile silicone gummy implants but after reviewing my chart my surgeon called me yesterday and decided to go with 405cc because of my small frame and he will be removing some breast tissue. Wish me luck you guys!!! Finally my dream is coming true after years of feeling insecure about my sagging deflated breast!!!! I will update after my 1 day post op appointment tomorrow. For now here are some pics of my current deflated bitties. Updated on 30 Jul 2020: Yess Im soo happy with my decision my boobs look amazing and I feel amazing. I’m one day post op and I finally got to see my boobs today! Im off my pain meds already just taking my antibiotics, mind you I have a high pain tolerance but my surgeon also did a great job! I cant wait to see my 6 week and my final results. Im so happy I went through with it!! Updated on 30 Jul 2020: Exactly 24 hours after surgery and I feel great!! The only thing I can say is that my tongue is numb from anesthesia which is something I didnt expect because I never saw others post about that side effect, everything else is great! I can even still feel my nipples just one day after surgery. I cant express enough how happy Iam with the work Dr. Horn performed!!! Updated on 31 Jul 2020: Still feeling great..still not taking any pain meds and I have full range of motion in my arms. I did experience “morning boob” this morning but after about 10-15 minutes it went away and I have not had any pain since. Finally was able to shower although I was scared to get my incisions wet but everything went well. Praying that I continue to have a great and speedy recovery Updated on 1 Aug 2020: Has this happened to anyone? Im still recovering just fine but when I took my bra off I noticed red blisters forming on my boobs!! Has anyone experienced this before?? I called my Surgeon office they just said its probably a reaction to the antibiotics but im a little worried! Updated on 2 Aug 2020: It’s officially 4 days since I got my new boobies and Im still over the moon with excitement because my recovery is going much better than I ever expected it would. I have not had to take any pain pills since the day of surgery, Im not having any shortness of breath outside of the initial surgery day, I have however developed a reaction to the steri strips which Iam taking benadryl for..hope it helps...but I feel like my Dr. chose the perfect cc implant for me because I have no “ elephant on my chest” feeling my boobs are already starting to soften up, although they are still extremely high which I expect will last a few more weeks/months but im not worried about it at all. Im starting to get the feeling back in my tongue finally and I’ve started doing my massages as of today! I must say kudos to my surgeon because he is absolutely “the boobguy” and is amazing at what he does! I couldn’t be happier with my decision to go with his team for this operation, I would certainly recommend anyone in the Chicago area to see Dr. Michael Horn!!! Updated on 4 Aug 2020: Sooo I was felling great up until about 9:30pm while taking a #2 when all of a sudden I started to get a tightening feeling in my left breast, I looked down and literally within 30 seconds my boob was twice the size of my right breast and hard as a rock! Of course I panicked and started to get extremely worried that my boob was going to explode. I immediately called my surgeon and he was available to take my call as he gives his patients his personal number for emergencies. He reassured me that my breast would not explode and that, although not common, it is possible to get fluid build up around the implant causing the swelling I was experiencing. He advised me to tale a few pain pills and to come immediately in the morning to the surgery center so that he could drain the fluid. He made me feel so comfortable and at ease because I was in pure panic mode. Im still happy with my decision and even more happy that I chose him as my surgeon he really put my mind at ease and although my boob is hard as a rock he said once the fluid is drained I will feel back to normal. Just thought I’d add this update, I will be back with the outcome once I see my surgeon in the morning! Updated on 8 Aug 2020: So as I updated before I had and extremely painful setback a few days ago and my left breast had gotten extremely swollen and hard. My surgeon got me in immediately the next morning and drained all the fluid and blood that had built up. After surgery I was extremely sore from the pressure that came from the fluid buildup and now 3 days post op im feeling back to normal (the same way I was feeling after my initial surgery) my advise to anyone looking to get a BA is please even if you are feeling great and having no pain..TAKE IT EASY AND ASK FOR HELP. Although I felt great on the outside my body was still healing and recovering from a very invasive surgery. Im now back on track with my recovery, thankfully, but I wouldn’t wish the pain I experienced on anyone. I have high pain tolerance but that pain I felt from that buildup had me in tears! Anyway I hope this helps someone. Updated on 15 Aug 2020: So its been 10 days since the draining of a hematoma in my left breast and thankfully everything went well and im feeling much better! My boobs are looking great, but im still taking it pretty easy. Im able to do more things comfortably including sleep on my side, although I prefer to sleep on my stomach, but my side will do for now. The pain I was feeling has completely subsided and now I just get random sharp pains that last a couple seconds, which ai assume is my nerves reconnecting. Im super happy I went through with the surgery and even more happy with the surgeon I chose! Updated on 31 Aug 2020: So its been 5 weeks since my surgery and I think they look great! Im extremely satisfied with the results so far. No further complications and I can even sleep on my stomach not for long but it is nice to be able to do so. Updated on 30 Nov 2020: Im officially 4 months post op today and Im feeling absolutely wonderful im sooo happy with my decision. Im absolutely in love with my results! Even more so after coming back to this post and seeing my before pics! My confidence and selfies are through the roof! My surgeon may not be the most social man but he damn sure knows what he is doing when it comes down to his craft! Im forever grateful! Best 8700.00 I ever spent! I did have to get an anchor lift with my implants, and to anyone second guessing because of scarring trust me when i tell you when you have an amazing surgeon those scars will be minuscule in comparison to the confidence boost when you can literally make any top look good! But anyway I just wanted to update. Im having no complaints so I dont really have any specifics to give but feel free to ask questions.
Hi Dagaz, A very important question, and a topic you should address sooner rather than later. Based off your description of symptoms, you may or may not have capsular contracture. Capsular Contracture is a tightening of the scar tissue (also called a capsule) that normally forms around the breast implant during the healing process after surgery. In some women, the scar tissue (capsule) squeezes the implant. When this occurs, it is called capsular contracture. This results in firmness or hardening of the breast and is a risk for implant rupture. Capsular contracture is classified by Baker Grades. Capsular Contracture Baker Grades III or IV are the most severe. Baker Grade III often results in the need for additional surgery (reoperation) because of pain and possibly abnormal appearance. Baker Grade IV usually results in the need for additional surgery (reoperation) because of pain and unacceptable appearance. The best way to determine if this is the case is to schedule a follow up visit with your original implanting physician. If said physician is unavailable, scheduling a new consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon is a good opinion. Capsular contracture can worsen over time, so it is best to determine if this is the case sooner rather than later. On a positive note, most implant companies have some sort of warranty on the implants, whether it is a free set of implants to replace the current ones, or potentially cost assistance to help pay for the correction surgery. I hope this feedback helps!
Hi DigitalG! I completely understand that it can be difficult when choosing the right set of implants to help you achieve your cosmetic goals! At our facility, we utilize a technology called Vectra 3D Imaging to simulate what the results will appear like post surgery. This, in combination with an implant fitting, can help patients feel more secure in their implant decision! I have attached a link below with more details, and recommend either visiting us, or a practice that offers this as an option!
Thank you for your question. Icing can be helpful to reduce swelling post surgery. I typically recommend icing about 20 minutes on 20 minutes off for a few days after. It is always best to follow the instructions of your surgeon.
Thank you for your question. I recommend scheduling a follow up appointment to meet with your surgeon. It is not common to experience pain 1 year post op.
Thank you for your question. I recommend scheduling to see your pcp. I allow my patients to move forward with surgery as long as they have finished their round of antibiotics prior to their scheduled surgery date.
