Breast Implant Removal - 45 Years Young. Grand Rapids, MI

In 2006 I decided to get a breast augmentation (Saline 375cc), with a bra size of 36D. I had been insecure about my breast size (34B) and thought that the "grass" would be greener on the other side. I had a slender athletic body and always worked out because it made me happy and sane. Looking back, my body looked great...what the heck was I thinking. I wasn't! I didn't consider how I would feel if I didn't like them, how it would feel with fake bags in my body, how it would feel to hug people, how awful it would be having mammograms, etc...and surprisingly I didn't consider the possible ill effects it could have on me physically or physiologically. My motto was "Go Big or Go Home" and that was due to comments I had heard that most girls wished they had gone bigger so I was going to fix that right up front. Bad decision!

I've had the implants for eight years. In 2012, I was a mess. I had decided that I needed to either remove the implants or reduce the size. I visited Dr. Renucci in Grand Rapids and he was wonderful. He was very caring and respectful and educated me on making a decision to either remove the implants, exchange the implants, or to reduce the cc's. I chose to reduce the cc to 325ish. Deep down I knew I would be taking them out but for some reason I was not ready at that time.

I'M READY NOW! It's time to take back my body and remove the bags. I've only told my husband, my 25 year old daughter, and my younger sister...and Dr. Renucci. I've been taking the time to decide whether or not I want to explant only or explant with a lift.

I want to thank all of you for sharing your stories and personal photos of your journey. I can't express how much it has meant to me to know that I am not alone. You've inspired me and educated me and that's why I've chosen to do the same...I will share my journey and photos for those sitting on the fence and those who will come after me to make this very personal decision.

Today...I have not yet scheduled my appointment. I'm leaning towards just the explant and just wanted to continue thinking about my options. Dr. Renucci said that the explant would be very simple...no capsulectomy, no drains, and twilight sedation. He also suggested that I do the lift and wait 6 months to decide whether or not I want a lift. I'm still thinking...I'll let you know what I decide to do. It will be soon!