POSTED UNDER Breast Implants Reviews
24 days post-op. Having issues and not so happy.
UPDATED FROM kkit
3 years post
Getting them out ASAP.
kkitAugust 7, 2016
$6,000
I love my implants. I want to make that very clear. They are 3 years 9 months old and have been wonderful for my self-esteem in many, many ways. But about 9 months ago, I went from really excellent health to TERRIBLE health. My decline has been so rapid, it's mind blowing. I have been diagnosed with Hashimotos, adrenal fatigue, SIBO, gastritis, candida, parasites....ALL of these things have one root cause: a messed up immune system. I believe my breast implants - while they were great for a while - are causing my immune system to become overwhelmed.
I've done a ton of testing, genetic testing, etc. and have spent thousands on doctors, naturopaths, and supplements. But I'm still so inexplicably sick. While researching a candida medicine, I saw someone that said you can never fully heal if you have implants. So that sent me researching further. I have got to get these things out of me. I don't regret getting them at all - it's been an awesome ride! But my health...and my ability to stick around for a long time and be a good mom my kids deserve - are NOT worth the risk any longer. They still feel like foreign objects, though I've gotten used to them.
I know my chest will be a freak show after the explant, but I'm going to have to get some therapy and deal with the issues that sent me to get implants in the first place. I need to be natural again. Praying for a smooth surgery and recovery. Currently hunting down Drs who can do an en bloc (remove the capsule - not just the implant) and quickly.
I've done a ton of testing, genetic testing, etc. and have spent thousands on doctors, naturopaths, and supplements. But I'm still so inexplicably sick. While researching a candida medicine, I saw someone that said you can never fully heal if you have implants. So that sent me researching further. I have got to get these things out of me. I don't regret getting them at all - it's been an awesome ride! But my health...and my ability to stick around for a long time and be a good mom my kids deserve - are NOT worth the risk any longer. They still feel like foreign objects, though I've gotten used to them.
I know my chest will be a freak show after the explant, but I'm going to have to get some therapy and deal with the issues that sent me to get implants in the first place. I need to be natural again. Praying for a smooth surgery and recovery. Currently hunting down Drs who can do an en bloc (remove the capsule - not just the implant) and quickly.
UPDATED FROM kkit
24 days post
I'm 24 days post op and things are definitely...
kkitDecember 3, 2012
I'm 24 days post op and things are definitely different than I thought they'd be. I'm having some issues and not real thrilled at this point. Here they are from least to worst:
1. Mondor Cords - developed under right breast. They're harmless, I know, and will go away, but disturbing and sore.
2. Size - I know things will settle over time, but I feel like I may have gone too big. Yes. With 286s. They really hit my arms and it's annoying. They look fine under clothes, but naked I think they're still really ridiculous...especially when I lift my arms. But I will be patient and see how they settle. I cannot believe I ever considered 304s or 339s.
3. Rippling - I'll post a photo.You can feel it on the outside of both breasts, but you can actually see it on the left. My PS said he expected that I would have it due to little tissue, but he didn't tell me that he expected it. Huh. I knew it was a risk, but would have been better prepared had he told me his thoughts on it beforehand.
4. PAIN - I am experiencing SEVERE NERVE REGENERATION pain. It feels like my skin is covered in broken glass and the insides of my breasts are full of pine needles. I gave birth naturally 4 times. I can tolerate pain. But this has me gritting my teeth and virtually unable to function all day. It pervades my every thought. Heck, every breath as my skin rubs on my bra and is excruciating. I went to see my PS and he said the best I can do is massage them with a wash cloth in the shower (torture) to desensitize them. It helps them feel numb for about 5 minutes, but that's it. No pain medication I've tried helps at all. I've done some reading, but haven't seen anyone who describes it as intensely. I've started massaging with arnica a few times a day and am taking vitamins that I've read may help with nerve regeneration. This is day 15 with ZERO improvement. It's really impacting my life as well as my family's life because I'm so miserable and abrupt with my sweet kids. My poor husband...so eager to get to know the girls, but I can't even imagine letting him near them. I've read it can take months or even a year for symptoms to improve. I've also read it can be permanent which scares the bejeezus out of me. My PS said removing the implants may not help because the nerves will still be damaged. I knew loss of sensation was a risk, but never knew pain like this was a risk. I'd take loss of sensation over this pain. The worst part, I've found myself wistful for my old, pain-free, boobs. Flat and all. At least I could function. I will continue to remain hopeful and try to work through this stage. But I was wholly unprepared for it and am growing weary/angry for having done this to myself on purpose. :(
1. Mondor Cords - developed under right breast. They're harmless, I know, and will go away, but disturbing and sore.
2. Size - I know things will settle over time, but I feel like I may have gone too big. Yes. With 286s. They really hit my arms and it's annoying. They look fine under clothes, but naked I think they're still really ridiculous...especially when I lift my arms. But I will be patient and see how they settle. I cannot believe I ever considered 304s or 339s.
3. Rippling - I'll post a photo.You can feel it on the outside of both breasts, but you can actually see it on the left. My PS said he expected that I would have it due to little tissue, but he didn't tell me that he expected it. Huh. I knew it was a risk, but would have been better prepared had he told me his thoughts on it beforehand.
4. PAIN - I am experiencing SEVERE NERVE REGENERATION pain. It feels like my skin is covered in broken glass and the insides of my breasts are full of pine needles. I gave birth naturally 4 times. I can tolerate pain. But this has me gritting my teeth and virtually unable to function all day. It pervades my every thought. Heck, every breath as my skin rubs on my bra and is excruciating. I went to see my PS and he said the best I can do is massage them with a wash cloth in the shower (torture) to desensitize them. It helps them feel numb for about 5 minutes, but that's it. No pain medication I've tried helps at all. I've done some reading, but haven't seen anyone who describes it as intensely. I've started massaging with arnica a few times a day and am taking vitamins that I've read may help with nerve regeneration. This is day 15 with ZERO improvement. It's really impacting my life as well as my family's life because I'm so miserable and abrupt with my sweet kids. My poor husband...so eager to get to know the girls, but I can't even imagine letting him near them. I've read it can take months or even a year for symptoms to improve. I've also read it can be permanent which scares the bejeezus out of me. My PS said removing the implants may not help because the nerves will still be damaged. I knew loss of sensation was a risk, but never knew pain like this was a risk. I'd take loss of sensation over this pain. The worst part, I've found myself wistful for my old, pain-free, boobs. Flat and all. At least I could function. I will continue to remain hopeful and try to work through this stage. But I was wholly unprepared for it and am growing weary/angry for having done this to myself on purpose. :(
Replies (5)
redwall1
December 3, 2012
Aaaahhhh! After reading your posts, I am second guessing myself! My surgery is this Wednesday and I'm really really nervous! I dont want to regret this and wish for my old boobies (or no boobies) back! I too am an athletic runner. I have requested to go only to a size B. I dont want anything hampering my movement or bouncing around when I run! I was adamant that I dont want to go big when I spoke to my PS. He never talked much about what cc's but reassured me he would go with a conservative size. Still, I dont think I can take the kind of pain you are having! Plus, nipple sensation is a huge plus for me, and hubby is very afraid I'm going to loose it. Hhhhmmmmmm, I'm going to go think for a bit! Thanks so much for you sharing your story!
kkit
December 3, 2012
Hey there! As for size, talk about CCs or at least show him pictures of what is too big. Your definition of natural or a "B-cup" might vary from his. I have a friend whose PS chose her B-cup request...she has D's and hates them. She runs with them in 2 sports bras. She really hates having to buy bigger shirts to accommodate her breasts because the shirts are too boxy and make her feel fat instead of fit. I think pictures are crucial so you can make sure you're talking about the same look. Also, I'm wondering if my conservative 286s were still too big for me. Had I gone smaller, would I have had less nerve pain? As for my intense pain, I think I'm on the rare side. My PS he's only had a handful of patients who have my complaints over the last 20 years he's been doing augmentations. I know a lot of women get this to a certain degree, but not this badly. As for nipple sensation loss, mine were numb at first, but now are HYPER sensitive x1000. They feel breastfeeding sore like those first 2 weeks of breastfeeding where your nipples are raw. I'm hopeful this is a good sign as I now have feeling back. They just need to calm the heck down! I won't say I regret my surgery yet...I'm just nervous I will if things persist. But I think going into this decision with eyes wide open (instead of just crossing your fingers you're experience will be flawless like I did), is the only way to be fully prepared. There are a large percentage of women who do fall into that flawless experience category - I hope you'll be one of them!! :)
softgirl
December 10, 2012
I don't think smaller would have made a difference. Your nerves are crabby right now. But take heart, my sister had a full lift, and then big implants put in, and her nipples were intensely painful like yours. She now reports they have calmed down. Her BA was in August. Is the pain just in the nipples or all over?
December 3, 2012
Hi! It's nice to find someone on here that is also from Minneapolis! I had my BA on October 11th. It sounds like you are dealing with some issues that I have been through also. Thank God for this site, it helps us all feel like we are not alone in the "Boob Journey"! I'm currently dealing with some recovery issues my self, so I'm hoping to hear from some other girls on their same experience, thoughts, and advice. Good luck to you and I know that you will live your new additions as you get further along in your recovery. 24 days post op is really not that far along when you consider the big picture. I'm 7 1/2 weeks post op and I keep reminding myself that's not really far along either. I'm looking forward to 3 months, as that seems to be a turning point for a lot of people. Keep me posted and if there is anything I can do to help, let me know. After all, we are "neighbors"! :)
December 3, 2012
Hi MiaKat! I just read your profile. We are suuuuuuper close in location! I'm sorry to hear that you are still dealing with issues, but you're absolutely right. We're both not that far along in recovery. I guess I'm just impatient. lol. You read all about this surgery forever and every PS I saw made it sound like such a simple thing to do that will drastically change your life. I'm not sure if I was intentionally ignorant, naive, or just hopeful, but I thought recovery would be better by now. You know, I spent so much time worrying about how they would look post-surgery and so little time thinking about how they would feel post-surgery. Now I know. lol. Keep me posted on your progress, neighbor!!! :)
December 3, 2012
I remember thinking they were way too big when I first got them, especially because it seemed like they were in the way of my arms. I mentioned this to my PS at my 6 weeks appointment, and he said it's because they are now proportionate to my body. Having "side boob" is a good thing. He then showed me the pictures he took of me right before surgery, and I could not believe the difference! I was so straight up and down on the sides, looked like a boy! Having "side boob" gives more of the hour glass shape so many women want. I am slowly getting used to it. It does still feel a little weird, like when I want to cross my arms, or even when I'm washing my hands and I can feel my boobs against the insides of my arms. Weird. :)
December 4, 2012
You're right. It does look proportional. I've just never had it before! It just takes some getting used to....suddenly looking female and all. lol. :)
December 3, 2012
I'm sorry you're having such a difficult recovery kit. I never experienced painful ultra-sensitive nipple issues, however mine are still a bit "numbish". (at nearly 1 year post op was hoping to gain more sensation back! *sigh*) Have you tried numbing cream to reduce the pain? A woman recently posted here regarding the same issue you are going through and said wrapping breasts in saran wrap made her feel better... Hope my advice helps! Good luck hunn
December 3, 2012
Thanks, Kooberry! I am using Arnica Gel - I posted a question and this is what one of the PS suggested. It does take the edge off for which I'm grateful. I am totally going to try that plastic wrap idea! I've bought 8 bras so far and they're all torture. I've sewn a fleece bra liners, but the still are uncomfortable after a while. I've taken to just going braless or wearing a silky tanktop BENEATH my stretch bras...sexy, huh? LOL. If you think of it, can you direct me to that post by that woman? I feel so alone on this one. Thanks so much!
December 3, 2012
I have a friend who had the same experience! She said it was unbelievable. It did go away. Let me know if I need to ask her any questions for you.
December 4, 2012
Wings! Yes! I'm so so so happy to hear it went away for her. You have no idea. How long did it take? Did she take anything or use anything? What did her PS have to say about it? I'm thrilled to know I'm not alone! You're friend nailed it: it's unbeliveable! Thank you so much!
December 10, 2012
I wanted to mention, are there any supplements or oils you can ingest to help your nerves heal? Something is rattling around in the back of my head telling me that you need more fat, bodyfat, to help in wound healing...am I making any sense...? I want to say cod liver oil. My mother is a [RS bleep] prison camp survivor, and she and her siblings were rail thin. After they were rescued, all the ex prisoners were kept in camps and everyone was fed lots of cod liver oil. Mom tells me that they all blossomed and aches and pains vanished as they put on some weight.
December 13, 2012
How about Omega 3,6,9s? How are you holding up? Any improvements this week?
UPDATED FROM kkit
13 days post
Tomorrow marks 2 weeks since my surgery. It's...
kkitNovember 22, 2012
Tomorrow marks 2 weeks since my surgery. It's been, well, not so easy. I've been really surprised on how much discomfort I'm still in. Mostly it is soreness, but also lots of burning and stinging from what I assume is nerve regeneration. I thought for sure by now I'd be feeling pretty good. But I'm probably only at 60% back to myself. I'm still taking a muscle relaxer 2x a day and tylenol off and on. My surgeon said the relaxer will help my developed muscles (from rowing) stop being so tight. Admittedly, I've probably been doing to much. Four kids and my husband returned to work this week...I've had no choice but to step up my activity level.
BUT, the good news is that I'm really happy with the girls at this point. Swelling has gone down and they are a lot softer. My pics posted are from a few days ago, but they've dropped even more since then. I'm also really happy with the 286 size. I can't imagine going any bigger and being able to achieve a natural look. I feel like they are huge on me right now. I'm a C cup right now which is awesome. But they're not too big that they'll get in the way of my activities/athletics or cause too many stares. I'm really hopeful I'll love my look once they're settled. But first....to start feeling better. :(
BUT, the good news is that I'm really happy with the girls at this point. Swelling has gone down and they are a lot softer. My pics posted are from a few days ago, but they've dropped even more since then. I'm also really happy with the 286 size. I can't imagine going any bigger and being able to achieve a natural look. I feel like they are huge on me right now. I'm a C cup right now which is awesome. But they're not too big that they'll get in the way of my activities/athletics or cause too many stares. I'm really hopeful I'll love my look once they're settled. But first....to start feeling better. :(
Replies (5)
November 23, 2012
You're really looking great, I think they are a perfect size for you. I hope you are feeling better soon!
November 25, 2012
Thanks so much! That's so sweet of you to say. I spent so much time obsessing over which size and was just sure I'd regret whatever I chose. I'm hopeful that's not the case!
November 23, 2012
You and I are pretty close in size and post op time and like u I am surprised at where I am physically. I still don't have much strength and am still have residual healing. Like you, I had built up pec muscles and I think it just takes a while. I am going to start running again next week and start very light weights depending on how I feel. I think you look great by the way! Perfect for your body and size!!
November 25, 2012
Hey Wings! I just checked out your pics. Awesome, lady! Well done! They look so great already! But I hear ya, I feel pretty crappy. My range of motion is improving and driving is less torturous now. They're also starting to feel more me. But the stinging/burning is AWFUL. I feel like my chest if full of pine needles. It seems to be getting worse. I read nerve reconnecting is worse in some women than others...well I definitely pulled the short end of the stick on that one. Nothing I've taken has helped yet. I'm calling Monday if it doesn't improve. Blah. Good luck with the running next week! I hope to start some lower body workouts in the near future, too. Gotta get my behind in shape to match my pretty new boobs. lol.
November 23, 2012
You look great!
Because you are so fit, do they feel natural underneath your muscle?
November 25, 2012
Thanks!! I know I'm still in the baby stages of recovery, but they are *just* starting to feel like part of me. At first my muscles were really rebelling. My breasts felt like bowling balls being pinned to my chest wall. But just over the last 48 hours I've said to myself several times that they feel more me. They are no longer heavy and there is no more pressure. I'm hopeful over time it well get even better!
November 24, 2012
Because you have so little body fat, do you notice distortion when you flex your pecs? I couldn't have under the muscle because it looked so weird when I used my muscle.
November 25, 2012
To be honest, I haven't tried! lol. I'm going to have to give that a whirl in the mirror. Over the muscle just wasn't an option for me. I have severe breast involution (zero breast tissue) due to nursing. Implants would have been really visible with my measly breast skin over. I'm still not thrilled with the idea of cutting my muscles and possibly losing strength, but it was a trade off I had to make.
Replies (0)