My EXPLANT Journey.... Removing Large Implants Without Replacing - Atlanta, GA

My story sounds like so many others here before me. I was at a place in my life where I had recently remarried at 35 and was feeling a little insecure about my breasts looking a little less perky from breast-feeding my son many years before. I was a full 32B, enjoyed an active lifestyle that included running and loved to travel to beach type resort locations and never felt insecure in a swimsuit -only when I was naked in front of my husband. So, 2006 I went in for a breast augmentation with hopes to boost my confidence somewhat. I allowed the doctor to suggest the size that would fill the lax skin. He reminded me that placing below the muscle, I would lose approximately 10% of the implant volume and that most women really wish they had gone bigger-so at the last minute under the influence of Valium, I agreed that 375 cc would be my choice. That turned out to be a mistake. I should've went with my gut, but was influenced by the doctors view versus my own. The recovery process was uneventful and things went well- I was concerned that they were too big, but the doctor said the swelling would subside and I would be the size I wanted. Well, it's nine years later and I'm still too big! Fast forward to today, and I went for my first consultation to seek removal. I had many questions for Dr. Z and he patiently answered them all and made me feel at ease about the procedure. I do not want a replacement implant, nor do I want to lift at this time. Due to premenopausal changes – my natural breasts are actually a little larger than they were before surgery. My decision is to allow my breast time to settle and see what I've got left to work with. Dr. Z agreed with me totally. He said I may have some slight ptosis- but most likely I had the same prior to the implant. He agreed with me that I might be completely fine with the way they look without anything further needed. But, should I truly hate the ultimate outcome – I will then consider a left without implant. As a sidenote, and I'm not suggesting it's at all related to my silicone implants – I was diagnosed with two auto immune disorders within the past 24 months. One, a thyroid disorder called Hashimoto's thyroiditis- where the body begins to attack it self at the thyroid. And second, rheumatoid arthritis which the body attacks the joints. Many comments have been made on this site and other websites regarding autoimmune issues and implants, but again – I am not implying that they were the cause of my conditions. But, I will say that if by removing my implants and allowing my body to heal brings me relief in someway either to the weight of the implants on my back and shoulders or, my autoimmune conditions subside or go into remission then that would be a true blessing. I plan to stay in touch and journal this process in hopes that others who might be considering this option and/or who might be experiencing similar concerns might benefit. The photos I'm posting today were taken of me now. Again, my implants are nine years old so I have some slight ptosis- but not severe. My main complaint and reason to remove is because I am not able to wear the cute tops, bathing suits and other girly, dainty items I used to. Now, even though I'm a size small top – I must search for mediums or even larges just to cover my breasts! I am currently a 34DDD. I would like to be a C in some capacity once this is over. I want to have enough to show off, and push up when I want – or conceal when I want to be more discrete. My current situation does not allow this and it's very frustrating. I have always love fashion and trendy styles- and there are so many things that I can no longer wear-ie: turtlenecks, round neck T-shirts, triangle bikini tops, dainty sundresses- The list goes on and on. My surgery to explant is June 11. Dr. Z said that I can do a sedation IV and local. That pleased me immensely because I do have a fear of being put to sleep. His office was excellent -his wife Christina, who arranged my surgery was wonderful and the front desk was also friendly and welcoming. They even offered me a complementary one hour facial coupon upon arrival, without any obligation. Stay tune for my journey and let the countdown begin…

Hello – just a five-day out update. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. I must've spent 40 hours alone this week reviewing photos on real self of before and after's. Although I'm afraid when the day comes to remove the bandages and see what I'm left with – after nine years of large implants… I still know deep down this is the right choice for me. I found an old bra from before my augmentation and I've hung it over my dresser mirror as a reminder of what my future holds again- and for encouragement to keep plugging ahead! I don't know if any of you ladies who have implants now, and are considering removing them realize that none of the Victoria's Secret models are implanted. I don't think they are allowed. Take a moment to look through their website pictures, or the magazines that come. These girls arent D's, Or E's- they are natural small breasted women in push-up bras. I miss that dainty look. The feminine look in a nightgown or in a lace chemise. Today I look like Frederick's of Hollywood – tomorrow my goal is Victoria's Secret! Cheers to all the ladies out there who are ready to take back their breasts regardless of what size that might be! Be healthy! Be natural! Be sexy with what you have. :-). In order to prep for surgery next week, I have already ordered a couple of bras to wear after surgery. In case anyone is following me, and is interested… to wear immediately after surgery I ordered a surgical bra. Made by a company named ISAVELA. It has a compression component to it but very breathable fabric and front closure. Since I will have sutures under both breasts, I will not be able to wear underwire or anything touching the wounds for quite a while. This should get me through several weeks. Then I also ordered another bra for the next phase- which is a molded cups sports bra by Natori style number 731050. Has great support and racer back style so it can go with everything- underwire cups lightly padded to give you a little shape. From what I've read, The first six weeks your breasts are going to be very deflated, wrinkly, and traumatized. To me, that sounds very similar to after you stop breast-feeding. While your breasts are going through this transition, do you need a very good support bra round-the-clock. Also, a very good moisturizer and proper wound care for scars. I'm stocked up and ready! In the meantime I'm posting another couple of pictures of me now to give you an idea of how big I look in clothes, which I despise! I can't wait to be able to show you that after !

Just picking a few photos of me and clothes and currently said that we have something to compare to after their out! Getting more and more excited!! Please please please feel free to leave me notes about your experience I would love to hear your thoughts about aftercare and what worked well for you etc.! Thanks ladies!