POSTED UNDER Breast Implant Removal Reviews
Was Dr. Dev Worth It for My Explant? My Honest Experience From Consultation to Recovery
ORIGINAL POST
Was Dr. Dev Worth It for My Explant? My Honest Experience From Consultation to Recovery
WORTH IT
Thinking About Getting an explant? PLEASE READ THIS FIRST!!!
First of all, if you are even considering removing your implants, I just want to say congratulations. It is a huge decision, and I know firsthand how emotional, scary, and overwhelming it can feel. I spent two years thinking about my explant, researching, second guessing, and trying to find the right doctor.
Now that I’m on the other side of it, I can honestly say I have ZERO REGRETS!
NOTE: This is a long post, but I broke everything down by section so you can either read the whole thing or skip straight to the parts that matter most to you.
And if you are wondering which doctor to trust with something this personal and important, I cannot recommend Dr. Dev enough.
I do not normally write long reviews, but I felt called to share my experience because not enough women talk openly about explant surgery, recovery, and what it really feels like to go through this process. I hope this helps someone feel more informed, more confident, and less alone.
SO WHY DR. DEV?
After consulting with five of the top breast implant removal doctors in the U.S., everything led me to Dr. Dev, and I am so grateful it did.
I flew from California to Florida for my surgery, so yes, it cost more and required extra planning. But I would do it again in a heartbeat because I truly felt like I was in the best hands.
Here’s the simple version of why I chose him…
1. HE GENUINELY CARES…
He did not make me feel like another patient on a schedule or another transaction. He listened, answered my questions, and made me feel seen.
2. HIS TEAM IS INCREDIBLE…
Everyone was responsive, kind, organized, and comforting. They made the process feel smooth from beginning to end. Special shoutout to Yaeli, who is truly an angel. Jonathan was always incredibly responsive, and Cynthia made everything feel easy and stress-free.
3. YOU WILL FEEL THE DIFFERENCE…
I actually recommend consulting with other doctors first, then consulting with Dr. Dev. That way, you can feel the difference for yourself. That is exactly what made my decision so clear.
MY CONSULTATION EXPERIENCE:
I consulted with five highly rated explant doctors in the U.S. I won’t name names, but I did my research on RealSelf and made sure I was speaking with doctors who were known for breast implant removal surgery.
Out of everyone, Dr. Dev was the only one who made me feel like he was truly focused on what was best for me.
Several other doctors made the process feel very transactional. I also felt like I was being pushed toward getting a breast lift, even though I wasn’t sure I needed one. Dr. Dev told me honestly that he did not think I needed a lift, and he was right.
Now, three months into recovery, my breasts look great, and I am so happy I did not get an unnecessary lift.
I first consulted with Dr. Dev over FaceTime. Then I flew to Florida to meet him in person, see the facility, and make sure I felt completely comfortable. Meeting him and his team sealed the deal for me.
The office was clean, modern, and welcoming. His team was warm and accommodating. It did not feel cold or outdated like some medical offices can. It felt professional, elevated, and safe.
SURGERY DAY:
On surgery day, I was extremely nervous.
I had my implants for over 10 years. I got them when I was 22, and I had my explant at 33. Let’s just say 33 year old me is not as fearless as 22 year old me was.
But Dr. Dev and his team made me feel so cared for. Yaeli helped calm my nerves and made the day feel less scary. When I got into the surgery room, Dr. Dev could tell I was nervous, and both he and Yaeli held my hand and helped keep me calm.
That meant so much to me.
The next thing I knew, I woke up and my implants were out.
After surgery, one of the nurses wheeled me back to my room and made sure my husband understood everything I needed to do and take. I personally recommend staying at the Four Seasons if you can, especially because Dr. Dev’s office is right downstairs. The convenience alone was worth it.
THE FIRST 48 HOURS:
Honestly, the first 48 hours were not as bad as I expected.
Dr. Dev recommends walking around gently to help prevent blood clots. Obviously, you are not running around or doing anything intense, but light walking is encouraged.
I chose to get Exparel, and I am so glad I did. It helped so much with pain during the first couple of days. I was tired, but I was not in unbearable pain. If you are nervous about pain, I definitely recommend asking about it.
WEEK 1:
By week one, the Exparel had worn off, and I was sore, but still not in crazy pain. It felt more like the soreness you get after a really intense workout.
You will still have drains in, so you do have to monitor them daily. It sounds intimidating, but don’t worry. Cynthia explains everything clearly and makes it manageable.
I was also recommended to do medical grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and I did it. In my opinion, it was absolutely worth it. I truly feel like it helped my healing process and helped me recover faster before flying home.
WEEK 2:
My drains were removed on day 10, and after that, I was cleared to go home.
One very important tip: if you are traveling from out of state, make sure someone comes with you. You will not be able to carry luggage, pull bags, pack everything yourself, or handle a lot physically. You need someone who can take care of you and manage all the travel logistics.
This is not the time to be independent. Let someone help you.
WEEKS 3 TO 4:
By weeks three and four, I felt much more mobile.
I was still sleeping on a wedge pillow because it was the most comfortable position for me. I could wear a non-wired bra, but I still could not lift anything heavy.
Since my implants were under the muscle, my muscles needed time to repair, so I was very careful not to overdo it.
WEEKS 6 TO 8:
Around this point, you may get cleared to work out, but ladies, do not go wild.
Listen to your body.
Even though I was technically cleared, I personally could not fully walk on the treadmill without my breasts feeling sore until around week eight. Everyone heals differently, so be patient with yourself.
During this stage, my husband and I just went on gentle 30 minute walks every day, and that was my workout.
WEEKS 9 TO 12:
This is when I started to feel more normal.
My breasts were not as sore anymore, except around my period. I could walk on the treadmill without discomfort and started doing light leg workouts.
Upper body was still difficult for me because I could feel soreness, so I continued taking it slow.
Again, everyone’s healing journey is different. Do not compare your timeline too much to someone else’s.
WEEKS 13 TO 16:
By this stage, I finally felt like myself again.
My breasts were only sore around my period. I was able to get back to the StairMaster, treadmill, and lifting heavier weights, and I could finally do my normal daily errands again, like grocery shopping, without needing any help.
This was the stage where I really started feeling my best.
MY RESULTS:
Overall, I had no issues throughout my recovery, and I am so happy with my results.
I feel like I can breathe better. The symptoms I was experiencing before, including hair loss, IBS, eczema, discomfort when sleeping on my side, and other things I believe were connected to breast implant illness, have all improved or gone away.
Most importantly, I feel like myself again.
My breasts look great, I feel healthier, and I am genuinely so grateful I chose Dr. Dev.
If you want a doctor who actually cares, listens, and wants the best outcome for you, I truly recommend Dr. Dev. I can promise you two things. You will be in good hands, and once your implants are out, you may feel like the best version of yourself again.
THINGS I HIGHLY RECOMMEND BEFORE SURGERY:
Because I wish someone had made this list for me, here are the things that helped me most:
1. Wedge pillow -
This is a must. It made sleeping so much more comfortable.
2. Drain holder belt -
You can find one on Amazon. Trust me, you will thank yourself later.
3. Prune juice and MiraLAX -
The first few days can make you constipated, so be prepared.
4. Book an early morning surgery time if possible -
It helps so much mentally because you are not sitting around anxious all day.
5. Consult with at LEAST 3 to 5 doctors -
Do your research, but make sure Dr. Dev is on your list. His consultation is free, and I truly believe you will understand why I chose him.
6. Pack easy clothing -
Bring zip-up sweaters, button-down tops, and anything that is easy to put on and take off.
7. Arnica pills -
I had no bruising, and I truly believe these helped.
8. Nexcare flexible tape -
You may need to cover your chest with a garbage bag when showering at first, and this tape helps keep everything sealed.
9. Wet Ones body wipes -
You cannot shower right away, so these are very useful.
10. Bring someone who can take care of you for two weeks -
Especially if you are not local. You will need help.
11. Stay close to Dr. Dev’s office -
If you can stay at the Four Seasons, I highly recommend it. I stayed on the hotel side, and it was absolutely worth it because his office is downstairs. If you cannot stay there, try to stay within five minutes of the office.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I hope sharing my experience gives you the information, comfort, and confidence you need if you are considering explant surgery.
This is such a personal decision, and choosing the right doctor matters more than anything. You want someone who is not only skilled, but also honest, patient, and truly invested in your outcome. For me, Dr. Dev was all of that and more.
Looking back, I am so thankful I trusted my gut and chose him. From the consultation to surgery day to recovery, I felt cared for, supported, and safe every step of the way. That kind of peace of mind is priceless when you are making such a big decision for your body and your health.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If you are even thinking about getting an explant, I truly encourage you to book a consultation with Dr. Dev. Meet him, meet his team, ask your questions, and experience the difference for yourself.
I really believe that once you speak with him, you will understand exactly why I chose him as my doctor. And if your experience is anything like mine, you will walk away feeling hopeful, informed, and one step closer to feeling like yourself again.
First of all, if you are even considering removing your implants, I just want to say congratulations. It is a huge decision, and I know firsthand how emotional, scary, and overwhelming it can feel. I spent two years thinking about my explant, researching, second guessing, and trying to find the right doctor.
Now that I’m on the other side of it, I can honestly say I have ZERO REGRETS!
NOTE: This is a long post, but I broke everything down by section so you can either read the whole thing or skip straight to the parts that matter most to you.
And if you are wondering which doctor to trust with something this personal and important, I cannot recommend Dr. Dev enough.
I do not normally write long reviews, but I felt called to share my experience because not enough women talk openly about explant surgery, recovery, and what it really feels like to go through this process. I hope this helps someone feel more informed, more confident, and less alone.
SO WHY DR. DEV?
After consulting with five of the top breast implant removal doctors in the U.S., everything led me to Dr. Dev, and I am so grateful it did.
I flew from California to Florida for my surgery, so yes, it cost more and required extra planning. But I would do it again in a heartbeat because I truly felt like I was in the best hands.
Here’s the simple version of why I chose him…
1. HE GENUINELY CARES…
He did not make me feel like another patient on a schedule or another transaction. He listened, answered my questions, and made me feel seen.
2. HIS TEAM IS INCREDIBLE…
Everyone was responsive, kind, organized, and comforting. They made the process feel smooth from beginning to end. Special shoutout to Yaeli, who is truly an angel. Jonathan was always incredibly responsive, and Cynthia made everything feel easy and stress-free.
3. YOU WILL FEEL THE DIFFERENCE…
I actually recommend consulting with other doctors first, then consulting with Dr. Dev. That way, you can feel the difference for yourself. That is exactly what made my decision so clear.
MY CONSULTATION EXPERIENCE:
I consulted with five highly rated explant doctors in the U.S. I won’t name names, but I did my research on RealSelf and made sure I was speaking with doctors who were known for breast implant removal surgery.
Out of everyone, Dr. Dev was the only one who made me feel like he was truly focused on what was best for me.
Several other doctors made the process feel very transactional. I also felt like I was being pushed toward getting a breast lift, even though I wasn’t sure I needed one. Dr. Dev told me honestly that he did not think I needed a lift, and he was right.
Now, three months into recovery, my breasts look great, and I am so happy I did not get an unnecessary lift.
I first consulted with Dr. Dev over FaceTime. Then I flew to Florida to meet him in person, see the facility, and make sure I felt completely comfortable. Meeting him and his team sealed the deal for me.
The office was clean, modern, and welcoming. His team was warm and accommodating. It did not feel cold or outdated like some medical offices can. It felt professional, elevated, and safe.
SURGERY DAY:
On surgery day, I was extremely nervous.
I had my implants for over 10 years. I got them when I was 22, and I had my explant at 33. Let’s just say 33 year old me is not as fearless as 22 year old me was.
But Dr. Dev and his team made me feel so cared for. Yaeli helped calm my nerves and made the day feel less scary. When I got into the surgery room, Dr. Dev could tell I was nervous, and both he and Yaeli held my hand and helped keep me calm.
That meant so much to me.
The next thing I knew, I woke up and my implants were out.
After surgery, one of the nurses wheeled me back to my room and made sure my husband understood everything I needed to do and take. I personally recommend staying at the Four Seasons if you can, especially because Dr. Dev’s office is right downstairs. The convenience alone was worth it.
THE FIRST 48 HOURS:
Honestly, the first 48 hours were not as bad as I expected.
Dr. Dev recommends walking around gently to help prevent blood clots. Obviously, you are not running around or doing anything intense, but light walking is encouraged.
I chose to get Exparel, and I am so glad I did. It helped so much with pain during the first couple of days. I was tired, but I was not in unbearable pain. If you are nervous about pain, I definitely recommend asking about it.
WEEK 1:
By week one, the Exparel had worn off, and I was sore, but still not in crazy pain. It felt more like the soreness you get after a really intense workout.
You will still have drains in, so you do have to monitor them daily. It sounds intimidating, but don’t worry. Cynthia explains everything clearly and makes it manageable.
I was also recommended to do medical grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and I did it. In my opinion, it was absolutely worth it. I truly feel like it helped my healing process and helped me recover faster before flying home.
WEEK 2:
My drains were removed on day 10, and after that, I was cleared to go home.
One very important tip: if you are traveling from out of state, make sure someone comes with you. You will not be able to carry luggage, pull bags, pack everything yourself, or handle a lot physically. You need someone who can take care of you and manage all the travel logistics.
This is not the time to be independent. Let someone help you.
WEEKS 3 TO 4:
By weeks three and four, I felt much more mobile.
I was still sleeping on a wedge pillow because it was the most comfortable position for me. I could wear a non-wired bra, but I still could not lift anything heavy.
Since my implants were under the muscle, my muscles needed time to repair, so I was very careful not to overdo it.
WEEKS 6 TO 8:
Around this point, you may get cleared to work out, but ladies, do not go wild.
Listen to your body.
Even though I was technically cleared, I personally could not fully walk on the treadmill without my breasts feeling sore until around week eight. Everyone heals differently, so be patient with yourself.
During this stage, my husband and I just went on gentle 30 minute walks every day, and that was my workout.
WEEKS 9 TO 12:
This is when I started to feel more normal.
My breasts were not as sore anymore, except around my period. I could walk on the treadmill without discomfort and started doing light leg workouts.
Upper body was still difficult for me because I could feel soreness, so I continued taking it slow.
Again, everyone’s healing journey is different. Do not compare your timeline too much to someone else’s.
WEEKS 13 TO 16:
By this stage, I finally felt like myself again.
My breasts were only sore around my period. I was able to get back to the StairMaster, treadmill, and lifting heavier weights, and I could finally do my normal daily errands again, like grocery shopping, without needing any help.
This was the stage where I really started feeling my best.
MY RESULTS:
Overall, I had no issues throughout my recovery, and I am so happy with my results.
I feel like I can breathe better. The symptoms I was experiencing before, including hair loss, IBS, eczema, discomfort when sleeping on my side, and other things I believe were connected to breast implant illness, have all improved or gone away.
Most importantly, I feel like myself again.
My breasts look great, I feel healthier, and I am genuinely so grateful I chose Dr. Dev.
If you want a doctor who actually cares, listens, and wants the best outcome for you, I truly recommend Dr. Dev. I can promise you two things. You will be in good hands, and once your implants are out, you may feel like the best version of yourself again.
THINGS I HIGHLY RECOMMEND BEFORE SURGERY:
Because I wish someone had made this list for me, here are the things that helped me most:
1. Wedge pillow -
This is a must. It made sleeping so much more comfortable.
2. Drain holder belt -
You can find one on Amazon. Trust me, you will thank yourself later.
3. Prune juice and MiraLAX -
The first few days can make you constipated, so be prepared.
4. Book an early morning surgery time if possible -
It helps so much mentally because you are not sitting around anxious all day.
5. Consult with at LEAST 3 to 5 doctors -
Do your research, but make sure Dr. Dev is on your list. His consultation is free, and I truly believe you will understand why I chose him.
6. Pack easy clothing -
Bring zip-up sweaters, button-down tops, and anything that is easy to put on and take off.
7. Arnica pills -
I had no bruising, and I truly believe these helped.
8. Nexcare flexible tape -
You may need to cover your chest with a garbage bag when showering at first, and this tape helps keep everything sealed.
9. Wet Ones body wipes -
You cannot shower right away, so these are very useful.
10. Bring someone who can take care of you for two weeks -
Especially if you are not local. You will need help.
11. Stay close to Dr. Dev’s office -
If you can stay at the Four Seasons, I highly recommend it. I stayed on the hotel side, and it was absolutely worth it because his office is downstairs. If you cannot stay there, try to stay within five minutes of the office.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I hope sharing my experience gives you the information, comfort, and confidence you need if you are considering explant surgery.
This is such a personal decision, and choosing the right doctor matters more than anything. You want someone who is not only skilled, but also honest, patient, and truly invested in your outcome. For me, Dr. Dev was all of that and more.
Looking back, I am so thankful I trusted my gut and chose him. From the consultation to surgery day to recovery, I felt cared for, supported, and safe every step of the way. That kind of peace of mind is priceless when you are making such a big decision for your body and your health.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. If you are even thinking about getting an explant, I truly encourage you to book a consultation with Dr. Dev. Meet him, meet his team, ask your questions, and experience the difference for yourself.
I really believe that once you speak with him, you will understand exactly why I chose him as my doctor. And if your experience is anything like mine, you will walk away feeling hopeful, informed, and one step closer to feeling like yourself again.
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