46, 3 Kids and I'm Done with Implants - Bellevue, WA

After breastfeeding 3 kids for 4 consecutive years (a single and a set of twins), I had super droopy, saggy, "rock in a sock" breasts. As I was just 31 at the time and didn't want granny boobs for the rest of my life, I sought the advice of a PS -- I went in looking for a lift and was told a story I've heard here over and over -- "you need implants to replace the lost volume." Well, I didn't want implants but I naively believed the PS and went ahead with the procedure in 2000.

Wanting a full B/small C (I started with barely an A cup), I was alarmed when I came out with 500cc saline under the muscle making me a 34DDD. The PS told me no one ever regrets going larger. Ha! I tried and tried to get used to them but never did. Fast forward to 2004, I hated my body and became very depressed and anxious. I went to a different PS and he agreed they were too big for me. Replaced with 360cc silicone under the muscle (went to a 34D) and was happy with my result for a few years. But my priorities changed, and my lifestyle changed too. I became a fitness instructor in 2009 and tried to hide my figure to no avail. Now I see myself in the mirror and cringe at how top-heavy I appear.

2014 is the 10 year mark for my implants. I went in to my PS (the one who did the 2nd surgery) for an evaluation of the implants and decided on the spot I wanted them out. I have some mild capsular contracture and my body is 10 years older...but they're otherwise OK. He was fabulous -- very kind, empathetic, understanding and gentle. He understood that I feel out of proportion and agreed that they should come out. No pressure to replace with another set, just that this phase of my life is done and my feelings are valid. At my pre-op appointment, he said that explantation is the most gratifying procedure he performs these days -- no one has regretted removing their implants. That was so reassuring!

I'm booked for explant and lift on August 27 - two days from now! I can't wait. I've loved reading all of the stories you've shared here and feel like this community is serving a very important function in making us all realize we are not alone! I took some pre-explant photos and will post below. Trust me, you don't want to see my pre-BA pics! Just use your imagination :) I will keep you posted with my progress and wish everyone here peace of mind as you navigate this journey. Trust in your heart and you'll know what is the right step for you.

Surgery went well this morning and I'm resting at home now. I just loved the kind, professional staff at Dr. Egrari's and wasn't even anxious or nervous going in. I do have drains; probably for a few days as the implants were ruptured (unpleasant surprise) but he was able to remove all of it. Honestly, I feel so happy, relieved and peaceful about going through with this. When I go back for post-op tomorrow I should be able to steal a peek! Thanks to all at RS for the kind and supportive forum here. I felt so well informed and confident in my decision. Much love and appreciation to all of you who've shared your stories and photos.

Greetings from the other side! I had my post op this morning and everything is looking great. No problems that can't be solved by painkillers and rest. My sweet husband has stayed within a 10 foot radius for the past 24 hours and is being the perfect nurse! He's keeping track of my meds, stripping the drains, feeding me and just giving me lots support. I had a good night reclined on a wedge pillow in bed. I'm definitely still affected by the anesthesia - I feel a little loopy and forgetful, but that should pass soon.

At my post op, the nurse removed my gauze and let me take a look. My first comment was "they're so cute!" Truly, I don't think I looked this good pre-BA! I know there's a lot of swelling and markings and bandages, but I am thrilled with the shape and symmetry. Drains will come out next Tuesday so I can't shower till then. That's the only disappointment so far.

Thanks for all of your supportive messages -- I couldn't wait to get home and post my first photo without implants in 14 years! By the way, the robe was wrapped behind me at my waist, so that's not my freaky looking waist line! Haha...