I have been trolling RealSelf for a looong time. I feel compelled to contribute, and excited that I'm actually on the other side! My journey started after a big weight loss when I was a teenager. I was not heavy as a young child, but puberty was not kind to me, to say the least. I gained weight seemingly overnight, reaching about 180 pounds and a DD at my heaviest. Thankfully, and probably partly because I was still young, the weight seemed to come off as easy as it was put on. I began dieting and exercising religiously when I was 15, and by the time I was 16-17, I was down to 125. Aside from some stretch marks, my body seemed to snap back to "normal"... that is, everything except my breasts - one area exercise does not do much for. Thus began my biggest insecurity. The all-consuming feeling of self-hatred was present every time I took of my shirt, every time I had to be in a bathing suit, every time I saw the bodies of other women my age, every time I was interested in dating someone. I am innately hard on myself, set standards for myself that are too high, judge myself harshly, and compare myself to everyone. Despite anyone telling me I was beautiful, I always felt ugly and unworthy. I began researching how to fix my breasts through surgery. By the time I was 18, I had the doctor selected, and put the down payment down for a breast lift with implants. I ended up losing the deposit because I just couldn't go through with it. I was too afraid of the scars and did not feel ready for surgery. This was a blessing in disguise, because - let's just say - life certainly happened in my 20s, and I went through changes that I would not have anticipated. Fast forward some time - I am now 28, more healthy - physically, mentally - than I've ever been, have matured to a place of self-love and acceptance, have a career that I am passionate about, in a relationship with an amazing man... I knew this was the right time to continue where I left off on my quest to better breasts. My consultation experience was quite grueling, as I was told a few times that I needed a breast lift or no dice. I was unable to fully express what I desired because I still felt ashamed about my insecurity. But after one of the best surgeons in the business (whom I did not choose) told me that I did not have to have a lift now if I did not want, that I would be able to feel better about my breasts with an implant alone, that his opinion is that many of his colleagues perform breast lifts too often when one is not needed, I was determined to keep researching until I found the one... the doctor who ended up being my very last consultation. I was anxious the entire process, worrying about every little thing - outcome, complications, is it the right size, the right implant, the right placement, negative voices of other doctors still in my head- but my surgeon and those close to me helped me to get out of my crazy and let go of what I cannot control and stay positive and confident in my decisions and ready for surgery. Now that I have bored you to pieces (whoever may be reading up to this point), here are the goods - my stats: I am 5'7, 130 pounds, gym rat, healthy/active lifestyle. Went with Natrelle Style 20 (high profile), 650 cc, under. Went from a 32 saggy B or C to 32 European F (32 DD+). I am aware that I may need a lift later on, but still being young and not having kids, I was not ready to settle on it yet. Also, I've never been super perky, and I don't mind a little sag! (as long as the volume is there) SO, SO worth it. I am loving my breasts at only a week after surgery. I can't wait for them to drop and heal. My recovery has been pretty smooth so far *knocks on wood* Thank you all for sharing your stories, and I hope to be of help the same way you all were for me! Updated on 6 Sep 2017: Updated on 6 Sep 2017: Breasts did not match the rest of my body Updated on 7 Sep 2017: Breasts really feel like my own now, not foreign objects. Trying on clothes is incredibly fun. Still can't believe this is me. Updated on 4 Nov 2017: Healing tremendously. Beyond happy.
I have always know i would get breast implants since puberty. I never seemed to develop breasts and felt i looked out of proportion in clothes. I struggled with diet and exercise to stay extremely thin to keep my hips inline with my small breasts. As soon as I was able I made a consultation with a Dr that I had heard was amazing with anatomicals since the older Drs dont seem to like change. I had researched for months on the visual differences of round and anatomical and there was no way I wanted an artificially round looking breast. Dr Vendemia had almost a 1 and a half hour consult going over every question I had written down as well as my parents whom were both in attendance. I had complete faith in his skills as well as his size choice. Also he offers rapid recovery augmentation and upon learning more we were all sold on using him as my dr. Updated on 31 Aug 2016: The first night was a little rough. Dr. Vendemia doesn't give heavy pain killers. He believes that those heavy medications cause more problems and I should be up moving around (with caution) as soon as possible. He had me take Cellebex for inflammation and pain. I also added some extra strength Tylenol last night and this morning and it was bearable most of the time except when i would get muscle spasms. I was able to shower after my next morning post op and raise my hands over my head to wash my own hair. Ive heard over people talk about frankenboob but i would be happy if they looked like this forever. Updated on 1 Sep 2016: Day 2 I went on a date and now on day 3 Im paying for it. Im tired and sore so I doubled up on my Cellebrex and xtra strength tylenol. Im the most tired today also so Im going to hop back in bed and take it easy. Im still loving my new additions;) Updated on 8 Sep 2016: My breast one is still swollen and I have a lot of tightness in the mornings but overall doing well. One day my nipple seemed to be veering off into my armpit so I called the Dr and was told to make sure my nipples are inline while i wear my bra. Apparently that helps them heal in the correct location and I sure as hell dont want crocked nipples if its at all avoidable. So I keep checking them all day lol but i do see a difference now and am progressing well. My righty is still about an inch higher but its still early. Ill update at 3 weeks next week with photos :)
I've looked into implants for a number of years since I'm tall and have a not petite frame but was a 36 (small) B and curvy hips. I'm 5'9 and around 160 lbs. I wanted bigger size but didn't want it to look for obvious particularly in clothing for professional reasons. As a result, I ended up going with a teardrop (anatomical) silicone implant. I tried a range of sizes that were round and based on my selection the surgeon picked an implant that correlates with something between 397 and 420 cc round implants. For the consultation, he took about an hour with me to discuss the different options and all the possible risks of the surgery. I also came back another time to try the implants again to make sure. I would note my cost was slightly higher since I had surgery on a different day than he normally does surgery and ended up spending a little longer than an hour in the OR which adds to the facility few. Currently, three days out now so still fairly swollen but based on how it looks now I'm hopeful it'll settle into a good place as the skin stretches. So far I would say it has definitely hurt for me though not in a way that's overwhelming but I'm only on Celebrex (an anti inflammatory) and extra strength Tylenol. I'll hopefully follow this up with more info as I progress. Updated on 19 Aug 2016: Went for my one week checkup today and my right side has been coming along but I have had more fluid build up on the left side. I hadn't had the best week for sleep due to catching up on work, which can hamper recovery. This weekend I'm hoping with some R&R for the left side to catch up healing-wise. My doctor also doubled my dosage of Celebrex. He also had me go to get fitted for an underwire bra. I had been in a surgical bra since surgery and it's nice to not have so much compression on now. However, as someone who never wore a bra at home before, looking forward to not wearing a bra all the time at some point. I was sized as a British 34E, think equivalent DD. Quite a difference from being a B but it definitely doesn't look that large in my opinion. Updated on 3 Sep 2016: I'm a little over 3 weeks out of surgery now and it's starting to look more normal though my chest is still a bit itchy and stiff. One of my friends with implants mentioned that the nipples go through a lot of types of hypersensitivity and that's definitely happening for me. My left side has also taken longer to heal and on that side have more implant movement than on the right. That said, I'm really happy with how normal they look in clothing and I know out of clothing they will probably look more natural in a month or two. A few people didn't even realize I had gotten implants which is amazing given the size differential. Only thing I can't wait for is to get back to my normal workouts /strength training to put everything together. Updated on 3 Dec 2016: About four months out and I am really happy with how they are healing from an appearance standpoint, and also how much they softened up over the last two months. I still don't have full feeling from the nipple down on the breasts but I've seen some things that say can be a 6-12 month process for nerves to heal. I also still have pretty obvious scars but since they are under the creases it's easy to hide. I would definitely do it all over again, though hoping that won't happen anytime soon
Hi All! I'm about 3 weeks before my surgery and getting pretty anxious. I have been so thankful to use all the past experiences from the other women out there to help guide my decision. I've decided to go with 397cc anatomical gummy bear implants (under the muscle). I am 5'6 and currently wear about an A. I'm looking for a very natural look but want to look great in a bikini or tight top (something that has always made me self conscious before.) Anyone else go with the anatomical shape gummy bear implants? My only worry is them rotating. That happen to anyone? Updated on 15 Apr 2016: 2 weeks out! I'm ready to get it over with. A little while back I tried on different sizes under different tops etc to figure out what looks best to my frame. I decided to go with 397cc anatomical silicon unders. Here are pics with my sizers under a sports bra. My doctor said under my muscle they will appear even a bit smaller than what I see here. I have very little breast tissue as is so this will be a big step for me! Really excited. How long did it take y'all to decide on a size? Anyone ever regret the size they decided to go with? Updated on 20 Nov 2016: Never thought to update this but having a breast augmentation with Dr V was the best thing I could have asked for! I now how the most natural incredible breasts. No one at work suspected a thing and I was back to the gym in no time. Now don't get me wrong- the week after surgery was a weird time. Your skin it stretching and your boobs just don't looks like they should ha and it did hurt! But dr V is a perfectionist and I couldn't be happier with my results. Some days I think- damn I should have gone bigger! But they honestly fit my body perfectly. If you're in NYC- don't go to anyone else! Updated on 20 Nov 2016: Updated on 23 Nov 2016: I never thought to update this but my experience with Dr V and Karin was 5 stars. I don't think I could have gotten better and more natural results with any other doctor. Dr V is an artist and I'm so glad I went with his recommendation for me. I'm obsessed with the work he did for me. If you're considering a breast enhancement in NYC look no further. Updated on 15 Apr 2020: Hi yall. It’s been 4 years since my procedure and I still cannot be happier with the results. My breasts look incredibly natural and just perfect. I remember the hours i spent on real self trying to decide exactly what I wanted- I kept going back between round and anatomical. In one of my consults I remember Dr. V saying “Picture yourself in the south of France on a nude beach. Someone sees you in the distance. Do you want them to think “wow her boob job looks great! Or wow that woman’s breasts are naturally perfect” That insight sold me on getting anatomical. I’ve had close friends SHOCKED when I tell them my boobs are fake. People just assume they are perfect. ;) I also think because I had so little breast tissue before and I’m pretty muscular - anatomicals were the best fit for me! Thanks Dr V! Ps Im back on real self looking at other things I want to do post quarantine. Feel free to ask questions. I’d love to help. This place helped me so much when I was first starting my journey. Updated on 16 Apr 2020: Updated on 16 Apr 2020: Still look incredible. Honestly, they are just getting better with time.
I began toying with the idea of breast implants in 2014, before my second child was born. After my second child was born, I lost about 35 pounds, and I am about 15 pounds away from my goal weight of 160. I am a larger woman, with a lot of muscle tone. I exercise quite a bit and as a reward for my efforts I am getting a breast augmentation. A few months ago I noticed that despite my increasing weight loss, I am still unhappy looking in the mirror. Everything is firm, (butt, tummy, legs, etc), but my breasts are just floppy, droopy and disappointing. They are what anyone would call "mom boobs". I didn't breastfeed my children, but I did use a breast pump frequently, and I think it literally sucked the life out of them. That, plus a decrease in my weight left a lot less breast tissue than I was used to having. It is just depressing to look at now. I had a consultation with a doctor who I have researched and I was so happy with his professional and patient demeanor. I respect his opinion very much and I think we are both clear on what I like. Fortunately, he said I do not need a lift at this time, which is great because I was not looking forward to the scars that are left by a lift. I am looking forward to the results and I am going to chronicle my journey here and hopefully it helps other women in the same situation as myself. Updated on 20 Jan 2016: Today was my final pre op visit. My dr took before photos and we decided on a final size. I am going with 600-650cc silicon natrelle inspira under the muscle inframammary incision. I also received my prescriptions for after the surgery and instructions on what to wear after.... I was surprised that I was not prescribed a heavy duty painkiller but the dr assures me that it is counterproductive to give a narcotic painkiller that will cloud the mind and possible cause strain from vomiting. Very excited now ! Updated on 3 Feb 2016: So it's all done! 650cc natrelle implants. I am 2 days post surgery and I have to say I am feeling and looking great. I am still swollen in my chest and belly area and also bruised but I am soooo happy with the results already. I am basically taking it easy and not on any painkillers, just Celebrex and Tylenol. Updated on 5 Feb 2016: Overall I am feeling great. I have had full range of motion in my arms since about day 2. I'm not on any pain meds just finishing up the Celebrex the dr prescribed. He said I have to finish that otherwise I wouldn't even take anything. I am so happy with my decision. The only thing I can say is I wish I had done it sooner. Updated on 8 Feb 2016: Pain wise I am fine and have total mobility of my arms although I am still following my surgeons instructions to avoid lifting. I am so happy with the size and placement. So natural. Still icing if I feel swollen, and sleeping on an angle on my back. Overall very happy I did it. Updated on 9 Feb 2016: So basically I can't wait to buy some bathing suits and bras ! Updated on 9 Feb 2016: I feel like a new woman with some supportive and shaping bras. What a difference. Updated on 10 Feb 2016: I am back to wearing the band to help my Left breast drop down more because it's lagging behind the right It's annoying but I can deal with it. Also I am in an underwire bra 24/7 to help define creases as per my surgeons directions. I am definitely not a bra person ... That was part of the motivation for getting implants. I am always the type to take My bra off and tosss it aside as soon as I would get home, and once my bra is off I'm in for the day. Lol. But now I'm stuck in this thing but whatever it's all for beautiful boobies in the long run. I can deal with anything for a few weeks ! Updated on 16 Feb 2016: I am in love with my new look. In clothes no one noticed anything has changed because I am used to wearing so much padding. But naked .... Wowwwwwww. What a difference. Today is my first day back at the gym. My dr advised me to do 40% of my usual workout! Updated on 24 Mar 2016: It has been just about 8 weeks since my BA. I am happier with my body that I have ever been since having two kids ... And possibly even happier than pre- kids. My shape looks amazing ... What more can I really say I think the pics speak for themselves. Healing wise I feel I am basically able to do everything I did before my BA aside for some extra intense chest and core workouts which I am slowly easing back into. Updated on 24 Mar 2016: A lot of people are commenting that I look more fit. My weight has dropped by only about 2 pounds since my BA but I think I just look more balanced with better posture now. Updated on 9 Apr 2016: I can't believe how much of a difference it is when I look at before pictures. My husband and I had our first night out in a few years and I got to really show these babies off ... And let me tell you it did wonders for my ego and self esteem. They feel totally healed and natural now and look totally natural without a bra on. Even in clothing some of family members have not noticed; they are commenting that I look more fit but nothing about my breasts which is a relief because it lets me Know that my surgeon and I selected the right size for my frame. So happy wish I did it years ago. If anyone out there is thinking of going ahead with surgery or not I would say JUST DO IT!!!! Updated on 22 Apr 2016: Feeling very confident and comfortable in my skin nowadays. Everything that was supposed to happen, happened. They dropped, look very natural and have great projection. Every time I see myself naked I think about how I wish I had done this sooner. But I am glad I waited because I found the perfect doctor who created the exact look I wanted. I sleep at night in a tank top and this morning I woke up and said to myself, wow I never thought I could look like this bra less in a tank top. Very happy. Updated on 24 Sep 2016: 7 months post op and I am so grateful I had the surgery. My confidence is through the roof and I feel the best I ever have. Very very happy with my outcome.
I just walked out of surgery this afternoon so my review is basically just to say that HAPPY is an understatement that I choose Dr. V. I had 'shopped ' half if not all of Manhattan surgeons and kne the within the first ten minutes of ketch Dr. V that he would be the one ( sure sounds like a love story????????????). Anywa the patience and thorough manner in which he answered my questions got to me to book before walking out of the door. Then came anxiety that comes with surgery that his staff attended to so kindly no matter what time it was. Got my surgery done today and with butt implants you sort of can tell the result right away, so I'm over the moon happy and love the extremely private surgical center Dr. V uses. It felt like having medical personnel in my hotel room????. My pain level is very minimal, I was given pain medication at the center and will take one again before I go to sleep. I'll be updating on my results every four weeks !!!
Hey folks! I've been reading reviews on here for several months and have really benefitted from all the stories and insights. So much so, that I though I'd share my own! So while I'm 5 days post op now I'll start with what I started with... Which wasn't bad but it wasn't really proportional. Results pending! Pre-op: 34b Post-op:?? Hight: 5'7" Weight: 133 397cc silicon unders allergen natrelle mod profile Crease incision Updated on 24 Aug 2014: Hey guys!! So, I actually chose my doctor based on his "rapid recovery breast augmentation" procedure and he has such a great attitude but also was serious about the fact that he will say no to the procedure if I am not the right candidate etc. So it took me about 4 months from when I first went in to my consultation to actually finally booking, and even then I called them a week out and tried to cancel almost fully giving up my payment because I was so so scared. I was worried I would hate it, that people would judge me or that I wouldn't feel like my normal self ever again. I stayed up nights obsessing, I read like a zillion of these posts online, would wake up and say "YES this is what I want" and go to sleep crying that I might be making a terrible decision and risking my health. Both of those might be true, but after finally biting the bullet, sucking up the courage and popping a xanax I managed to get to the surgery center and out, and can you believe it, piece of cake! I tell you all of this because maybe there is someone out there like me who needs a little reassurance. This is a completely elective decision, so you need to be cool with electing to change your body. I did, and I'm actually really happy so far! It's been something I've thought about for years and as I got older and finally had the money to do so, I figure WTF not! Anyway, that's my rant. It does hurt, you need to give yourself AT LEAST 2 weeks before even looking at your boob results, most of the time even more leeway but I did RR procedure so I should have a good idea on the final product a month in. So, not everyone is the same or will have the same experience. I paid a LOT of money and did a lot of research since I believe you really get what you pay for and I don't want to play around with my body if I can avoid it. I'm guessing you all feel the same way! So, now onto my status: I actually didn't need a helping hand at all after the first 24 hours. In fact, I had a post op follow up with my PS the next morning and grabbed a cab and went alone. Was definitely hurting, and stiff and super protective though so don't think I was doing jumping jacks, but I could function independently which was important to me. Also I could lift my arms right after surgery and was completely coherent and making jokes with the nurses afterward eating crackers and drinking ginger ale my doctor says that's great but definitely not always common. The sucky part was this horrible shooting nerve pain I had in my side right under my left armpit for 2-3 days. I think it may be related to that bruise i posted a pic of. Other than than not really any bruising and they cleaned all marks off. Once that was over I started feeling pretty comfortable. I could shower after my day 1 post op appointment where he put silicon strips over my scars (internal stitches). The boobs: while they are still swollen & firm at day 6 (and look HUGE naked but rather normal and unnoticeable in clothes btw) I'm excited that my progress has been relatively rapid. I actually chose to do this procedure before moving apartments (smart, right?) and while i've had helpers packing etc, I've been able to pick up non-heavy things and move around quite well since Day 4. Yesterday I even spent the day packing and then went out to dinner! Right now I just got back from brunch and plan to do a bit more packing... I feel pretty comfortable and just taking celebrex morning and night, extra-strength tylenol and he gave me a script for oxycodon as needed but haven't needed it since the side nerve pain went away. There is still weight and numbness on my chest, but the feeling is almost more like I'm wearing a padded bra then "oh crap there is something foreign under my skin itching to get out!! a la Alien" which I'm telling you, is sort of what I expected. None of my friends know about it yet, I'll probably tell people once I have to be in a bikini and they are softer and less scary big but for now, you can hardly tell as long as I don't wear anything low cut. I do feel bloated and almost "PMS-y" but i think the fat feeling is a) big boobies! b) no working out c) mild constipation Anyway... that was a long ramble but let me know if you have any questions. Posting a photo of this morning when I tried laying on my side when I woke up. They look soooo big but I'm glad they are moving around more - still feel so stiff. Updated on 26 Aug 2014: So today I was so excited to go see Dr. V again for my 1 week post op. The girls have been getting a bit more pliable and less swollen but this rapid recovery breast augmentation thing is no joke, my experience has been really great and I already feel so full of energy and normal again. Still keeping my boobs under clothes and not on display at all... can't wait for them to soften up so I can show 'em off. According to Dr. V I still have 2-3 months before they'll really feel soft again and I'll be ready to prance around in a bikini. Which I know, is nothing in the world of BAs but us NYers are in a hurry for everything! It actually has been so nice to relax this week and force myself not to take on too many activities.. though the time has really dragged by because it's not a pace I'm used to. Anyway, rambling. So I went in and Dr. V said the boobs look fab and he's happy I'm recovering so fast and smoothly. He removed the silicone strips and cleaned the scars. He showed me them in a hand mirror and they don't look that bad considering. Hard to believe these big balloons went through such little holes. He replaced the silicone strips and scheduled another appointment for next week. I'm going on a trip in 10 days so he'll arm me with strips of my own to take care of while I'm gone. Next step in the Dr. V regimen is to go out and buy an underwire bra! Yea, I know, crazy sounding right after all we've read here! Well, first off he told me never ever to wear Victorias Secret again... apparently those bras are terrible and can ruin a perfectly good procedure. Secondly, he sent me directly to a bra fit stylist at Intimacy (a specialty lingerie store in NYC) who would equip me with a pricey but perfect bra for me to help coach my boobs into perfectly shaped happy places. Since the bras are european and specialty, by wearing these underwires I'll actually be helping form a perfect capsule for my end result boobs. I'll even be sleeping in this bra... which I'm a little wary of since I'm already uncomfortable sleeping like a bent plank. I ditched my little surgical crop top (FINALLY) and either should wear this fancy bra or go braless otherwise. Right now I'm still swollen all around my boobs so doc expects me to need future band adjustments as the boobs heal and swelling goes down. Annnnd for my bra size: 34F! Wowzas. The stylist said I'd probably end up 32DD/E if she had to guess. Considering I started at 34/36B I'm all confused about this bra size process now. Oh well, I'll just roll with it. Photos of the bra I purchased which is called the Prima Donna Madison Balconnet ($131) ... long name, HUGE price tag, but it is a perfect fit and hopefully perfect results. Photos attached plus a few more from today. PS- I've been lying down in this bra for 20 minutes and it's so itchy :( Updated on 27 Aug 2014: Having a bit of a bummer day today. Tried looking for bras at macys and it's basically impossible to find even a DD much less 34DD or bigger. My stomach feels so mushy and bloated. Just having a fat day and there's no way to smush down the boobs while without them I could pad up if I was in the mood. Just not feeling great today. Updated on 30 Aug 2014: Thought I'd give a little update since I'm feeling good about the boobs again :) I guess it's a lot of ups and downs those 1st few weeks from what I've read of other peoples stories. So yea, I definitely forget about the boobs when I'm out and about now. The changes are subtle but they feel softer every day and discomfort is minimal. They are still firm of course and don't move much on their own but that's to be expected I think. I really do feel like they're part of my body though and not foreign which makes me super happy. Found THE perfect bra: it's called the Prima Donna Caressence. I'm a 32F now but while big, they feel proportional to my chest width. Posted a picture in the original American apparel bra so you can see how different they look pre and post op! Thanks sooo much for the comments! Xo Updated on 17 Sep 2014: One month out and loving the look of my new breasts! I've been keeping them hidden when I'm around friends/family but starting to really want to show them off as they get softer and more natural looking. Now trying to figure out how to explain this to my friends. I'm about to visit and stay with a bunch of girlfriends and old roommates from college and think I'll have to drop the bomb. I'm afraid they'll judge me, but it's also my new reality. So, hopefully they'll get over it? I just wish I wasn't the only one of my friends to do this so far :( Can anyone relate to my anxiety? Included some photos from today! Updated on 28 Sep 2014: Just thought I'd post an update since I logged in to reply to a comment (thank you!! love all the support on here). So tomorrow is actually the *official* 6 week mark and it's been ups, downs and incredibly stressful and really uplifting. In the last week I've noticed a lot of softening and little sharp pains at the bottom of my breasts which from what I've read means that the nerves are regrowing down there. The only numbness I still have left is right about the crease incisions which is normal I expect. Otherwise seems pretty normal. I'll post pics of the scars when I change the tapes tomorrow but i can't even feel much of a bump there which I think must be a good sign (fingers crossed!). The scars are directly on the crease and I think that was helped along by wearing the underwire bras all night and day. Next week doc said I can stop wearing them while I sleep but since they've really helped with placement so far i'm actually not in a huge rush. Indian summer has been nice - I was able to lay out nude yesterday to get some body tan on the deck. It's been ages since these babies have felt fresh air and since the tape is on I didn't worry about the scars getting in the sun. I expected to feel swollen afterward as I have before when I get too hot and sweaty but actually they just seemed normal, if not a bit softer even. Doc told me that when the boobies stop being affected by exercise, heat or muscle strain then I'm finished healing...! The fluff and softening of the muscle will continue for the next few months though. ** Lying on my stomach feels REALLY weird. That's the first time I felt so aware of something foreign inside me... like I was lying on top of squish balls. Did not enjoy that... Doc says I should be fine to get a massage now but I'm not sure I could enjoy it... will continue to practice stomach resting? I've gained about 5 lbs since I really laid off the exercise since my surgery and 6 weeks of laziness is starting to take a toll -- plus I've been traveling and eating like "winter is coming" hahah. I've done a bunch of walking, hiking and some light elliptical but really excited to experiment with yoga, pilates, spinning and running again... think it'll be a slow process. Even sailing the other day made my muscles ache afterward. Anyway, thanks for letting me vent dear diary of beautiful empowered ladies! Let me know if you have any questions. I'm posting a few photos from today - as you can see, these babies can be dressed up or down depending on sexiness level i'm going for and honestly, I was worried they were too big but now i think they are just PERFECT. Couldn't be more pleased with my results and changing my review to "worth it" right now. Updated on 7 Oct 2014: Things continue on well. Still trying to adjust and get comfortable showing these babies off. I think they look great but I'm not really used to getting attention for my boobs... Working on being comfortable with my new look. And hope people don't get too distracted by boobies... Or maybe this is all in my head?? Fingers crossed that comfort will come, I have faith! Also trying to get used to lying on my stomach - such an odd feeling! Adding some photos I took today of my scars. They are right on the crease and very unnoticeable unless you get up close - but thought it might help those of you out there wondering what the healing process looks like at 2 months. Fun stuff! Updated on 8 Oct 2014: Not much progress.. But thought is share a few pics I took when I woke up this morning. They're a weird combo of firm/perky and big/squishy...! My doc says they'll soften up to the touch even more at 3-4 months. So far they look exactly what I wanted! Updated on 8 Oct 2014: I'm in a weird wifi situation but hopefully these photos upload. So great that others can use my photos as a guide to their own look - never thought that would be the case but makes me really really happy to hear!! It's funny, I'm still not completely used to having larger breasts but when I look at old photos of my chest it's SHOCKING. I was SO FLAT! Wow. And now I realize why I spent the first few weeks after surgery thinking omg omg I went way too big... I just wasn't used to the updated look. Now I'm comfortable and really actually proud of them. Thank you all! Updated on 2 Nov 2014: Just thought I'd log in and give and update on how things are progressing. Really enjoying my look now - been spending lots of time in bikinis and the only questions I've received relate to how good they look! Definitely get some comments even when I'm dressed conservatively which makes me a bit shy... Questions from women asking if they're real because they're too good to be true.. I guess that's the problem - natural fake boobs are a bit of an oxymoron. Oh well...? Just can't wait until they feel softer and feel more like a part of me. Some general numbness still, no pain, and I've been able to be quite active. Here's some pics! Couldn't have asked for a better result but do still wonder if I should've just let them be and not messed with nature : / Updated on 24 Dec 2014: So I've had a few requests for updated photos and since I'm at about the four month mark - here they are! No issues at all at this point, love the look and they feel natural. When I lie down is the only time I feel awkward or notice them really. Definitely feel like they are a part of my body and I'm adjusted to having them almost completely. Updated on 20 Jan 2015: I've been traveling quite a bit lately so haven't been great about updating so here's a juicy post and some photos. Size: Many people say they wish they went bigger but I'm very happy with my size and even sometimes (mostly when i'm on my period and they feel swollen) I feel like they might be a bit TOO big. They're definitely noticeable, but I like looking natural and if they were any bigger I think it would be much too attention grabbing. If I had a smaller frame I would have gone smaller but because I have broad shoulders/torso it couldn't be avoided. That's just me though! I like smaller boobies too but I just felt like mine were getting too pancakey and was embarrassed to be naked before. Now I feel sexy all the time - sometimes even when I would rather not draw attention to myself. Feel: They've definitely softened up and move naturally now. From the side I do notice a bit of unnatural roundness on the top half of my breasts but I think they are still settling. When I stretch my chest they also do ball up and get firmer but I have regained feeling in the bottom half of the breasts now so really they're starting to feel like a natural part of my body at this point. Exercise: Can do everything and running has become more comfortable, though I definitely need to wear stronger sports bras for support. I'm really focusing now on toning my back and core muscles since those were the least used while I was healing. Scars: Still can see distinct scar lines but doctor told me that's to be expected for at least the first year. I use bio oil regularly and cover the scars in the sun - easy enough to do as long as I'm not topless tanning all day long ;) Fortunately they blend really well into the bottom crease so you would have to look closely to notice at all. Placement: They have dropped quite a bit so I feel like when I don't wear a bra or supportive bikini they look a little low - I guess that's where that 'natural' look I wanted comes into play. No matter, just have to wear a bra whenever I can - just like anyone else with DDs. I also have to be conscious of how to dress - somethings I used to wear now make me look fat since my chest is bigger. Also, mildly revealing or sexy things can look super sexy/hot -- which is good/bad depending on my mood. It's motivation for me to get the rest of my bod toned and in shape to show these babies off in the best light too. People's reactions: Well, the cat is out of the bag with most of my close friends. Can't keep anything from those fabulous people who love me ;) Mostly their reaction has been very curious, supportive and encouraging. They love me no matter what I do and they think they look great, though I hate the idea of people gossiping about me I guess there's not much to do about it... Self love right?! Anyway, I'm happy and they're happy for me. Dating: Like my friends, men I've dated have reacted with everything from surprised curiosity to admiration -- and that's only if they do find out they're fake. It hasn't helped or hurt me as far as I've noticed, though I do get more random stranger attention. My guy friends will tease me in jest but nothing inappropriate, all been very gentlemanly and shy. It's my girl friends that all ask to see and touch them. So that's it for now, Let me know if you have questions! And I hope the photos help you with your own decision and process : )
39-year-old female with a breast lift with areola reconstruction, no implants originally. I was a 38 DDD and I asked to be a full C cup currently three days postop having very little pain only requiring Tylenol. Loving my new cleavage.
I'm BEYOND upset with this doctor who I now doubt had performed a single butt augmentation in his life. An implant moved from my left to the right not to mention how crooked my waist looks after the lipo he did on me. long story short,I am angry enough to want to sue. My body is damaged. I regret this
I haven't had my surgery yet, it's in less than 2 weeks and I'm very excited and also nervous. This journey started shortly after giving birth to my 1st child last September, a little over a year ago. Finally, around April I decided to book a consultation appointment with Dr. Vendemia. I chose him because of his rapid recovery method. I wanted to return to work as quickly as possible. I wanted very little down time and as little pain and discomfort as possible. Once I met him I was impressed by his confidence and I was very happy to learn I was a perfect candidate for rapid recovery BA. He recommended I go larger than I wanted and really educated me on some misconceptions about implants and expectations. Soon after I booked the surgery date, months in advance and now the day is almost here! Will post photos and updates soon. Updated on 2 Dec 2016: 12/2/16 Updated on 4 Dec 2016: Updated on 13 Dec 2016: Yesterday I had my surgery. I arrived at the facility on time and was called in about 30 mins later. A nurse came in and took my medical history. Some time after that Dr.Vendemia came in, answered some of my questions and made his markings. In case you're wondering for you future surgery you get a done of antibiotics via your IV during surgery. He says there's no real proof that AB helps after sx. Right after the anasthesialogist came in to ask more questions about my history with anasthesia. She placed in my IV. Then I took a pregnancy test. Not pregnant! Yay! After all that I was ready to be seen. After they gave me "something to relax me" I was out after a few minutes and had no memory of that. I don't know if people ever dream while under general anasthesia but I did. I woke up soon after with pain and a lot of pressure on my chest. I became alert fairly quickly. I was wobbly at first but after the second attempt at walking I was better. I took my meds and soon after I was ready to go. At home even with the celebrex and extra strength tylenol I was extremely sore. It felt like the soreness you get after a major upper body strength workout. But I was able to slowly raise my arms. Getting up was difficult and painful but nothing I couldn't handle, just needed help. Now I'm on my way to the follow up appointment and I'll see what the doc says. Updated on 13 Dec 2016: I'm not showing much here because I still have my bra, wrap, and top but you could still see a difference Updated on 13 Dec 2016: Updated on 14 Dec 2016: Updated on 22 Dec 2016: The first week and up to today I felt very sore in certain places and very tight. I couldn't stretch enough. Now, after my first day back at work my muscles feel more relaxed. I can stretch a little more comfortably. As for my new twins there many sensations going on at once. I feel numb under the breasts and hypersensitive at the nipples. My incision sites are tender and itchy. Since it's cold now sometimes when I step outside or when I feel cold my breasts feel hard and numb. It's a very odd feeling. The swelling has gone down a bit but not a lot. Last night I finally slept laying horizontal in bed. It was more comfortable than sleeping in an incline but not better for actual sleep. I still wake up at least twice a night with difficulty going back to sleep. Other than those things, I'm cleared to do nearly everything I did before with the exception of lifting heavy items and exercising, and drinking alcohol (at least for another 2 days). One more thing, on Tuesday after my 1 week post op appt I went to get fitted for a new bra. The dr says I will stay in this bra 24/7 to help shape my breasts. It is an under wire bra at it was very expensive. The most I ever paid for a bra. At first the stylist adjusted the bra on the 2nd hook and advised me to keep it there. This was a 30 in band size and I was use to wearing 34. Granted, 34 was too large for me, but 30 felt like I was literally being squeezed by a wire. I couldn't breathe, couldn't move, couldn't sleep. I was so uncomfortable. Finally, the next day I moved the hook to the last one and felt better. I will post more on my recovery and any new developments in the next couple of weeks. Updated on 22 Dec 2016: The new bra I bought WAS too tight. Today I woke up with this bruise under my right breast. There was blood on both sides of the wireday bra. Luckily since latching the bra on the last hook and wearing for 48 hrs, it has fit better, but for anyone buying a new bra after a BA pay attention to how it fits. If you can't think of anything but the tightness of the bra it is too tight. I suffered the consequences of being distracted by a fancy bra boutique and the stylist to be aware of how the bra was actually fitting me. Don't let this happen to you. I got away with no bruising from the surgery and ironically got one from a bra that was suppose to help and now it will take weeks for this to go away. Updated on 24 Dec 2016: Updated on 27 Dec 2016: So it has been 15 days since my surgery and I feel almost normal. I can easily move and stretch. I don't feel the soreness or tightness in my muscles and even though I'm still sleeping on my back I'm getting a better night's rest. My breasts on the other hand are a different story. I still feel the tightness, which I understand will take weeks to improve, and my incisions still hurt but not so much any more. I heard it's called morning boob, like morning wood, when the breasts feel hard and uncomfortable. I wake up with that every morning and it comes and goes through out the day. My bra is more comfortable than when I first started wearing it but only a little. I still hate it. Other than those things I'm feeling pretty good. Updated on 27 Dec 2016: Updated on 27 Dec 2016: Updated on 31 Jan 2017: My breasts feel like my own. No more hard sensation, numbness, and hypersensitivity. No more heaviness, pain and discomfort when I turned on my side. I've also been working out and dancing. I feel terrific. My breasts are a lot softer and they look natural. No one can tell I have implants. I'm still healing, I have bandages on my incisions. Things are starting to settle and soon I will have a natural and beautiful slope under my breasts. Looking forward to the up coming months. Updated on 17 Apr 2018: It took a long time but finally the incision areas do not hurt, underwire bras are more comfortable, and I feel like these breasts are really mine. The scars are still there and after some minor issues with the breasts settling, they look and feel pretty damn good. The only thing I cannot do is sleep on my stomach, it's extremely uncomfortable, it makes getting a massage challenging and push ups also feel a little weird. But they look natural, my OB/GYN and primary care physician both said Dr. V did a great job. If I ever want them larger I'd go back to him. Updated on 19 Apr 2018:
