POSTED UNDER Breast Implant Removal REVIEWS
Explant After 9 Years of 550cc Silicone Implant (Capsular Contracture)....with Lift - Nashville, TN
ORIGINAL POST
Let me first thank all of the brave women who have...
$11,000
Let me first thank all of the brave women who have selflessly and honestly shared each of your stories on this site. Without your personal testimonies, I would still be uneasy and unsure about what route is right for me in this whole journey.
Now, here is my story:
At age 22, about a year after breastfeeding my first child, I was unhappy with the deflated 36C that I was left with. In hindsight I would be thrilled to have those breasts now, but as a very young woman, had major self-esteem issues in relation to my body. Dr. Jeffrey Marvel (Nashville, TN) was the surgeon that I consulted with about breast augmentation, and was ultimately who performed my BA. Let me take a moment to overemphasize that I would NEVER refer another woman to Dr. Marvel if my life depended on it. I told him that I wanted an augmentation because I did't like the mushiness and droopiness of my breasts, and I wanted to be a full C again. That is where the consultation ended. He simply told me that he could make my dreams come true by putting in a 550cc silicone implant over the muscle. I was young and impressionable, making the mistake of little research. I should have asked more questions. I wish that Dr. Marvel had given professional opinion on ALL of my options. Had I known that a smaller implant + lift were an option (and a better one) I would have definitely chosen that route. WELL, the BA was completed and I came out of surgery with breasts that were not the full C that we'd discussed: I WAS TERRIFIED at the sight of my brand new 36 full DD. I am 5'4", and weighed about 130lbs at the time of the BA. IMMEDIATE REGRETb , and have lived the last 9 years trying to disguise my top heavy rack! Shirts don't fit properly, dresses don't fit properly, and finding a bathing suit top that is supportive enough is an absolute nightmare without special order.
4 years after after my BA, I had a second child, proving that my breast would stretch and grow once again. The implants have felt heavy and disproportionate since day 1, but even mores after having another child. Gravity took them lower pretty quickly as the implants were on top of the muscle and the breast tissue has been supporting a 550cc implant. WOW.
Fast forward, a couple of months ago I began experiencing an "internal pain" in my left breast. At first it felt like a giant air pocket between my implant and muscle, but has progressed to a mild burning behind the areola. I began talking to my husband about the discomfort, and he suggested that I go see a PS for a consultation/opinion. Per a dear friends referral, I knew that I wanted to talk to Dr. Michael Burgdorf (Nashville, TN). I anxiously awaited my appointment with Dr. Burgdorf for about one month, and watched my breasts change before my own eyes. Literally, in that month's time, my right breast became visibly lower than the left (like 1 WHOLE INCH lower). Symmetry has not every been an issue for me, so I was anxious to hear what the doctor had to say.
My consultation with Dr. Burgdorf was about 3 weeks ago, and I have nothing but great things to say about he and his staff. They were warm, welcoming, and Dr. Burgdorf was prepared to answer my 1,000 questions. I was nervous that he would try to convince me that I HAD to replace my implants with smaller once to look normal. Dr. Burgdorf confirmed that I am at a late Stage 3 Capsular Contracture on my left breast; and agreed that the implants have to come out. He listened to me while I expressed my desire to explant and lift without putting any other foreign objects in my body. He was very honest about the aesthetic difference, and that my breasts will most definitely lack projection and fullness without an implant in that pocket. During the appointment I began to consider the possibility of ending up with deformed breasts. I'm not going to lie in saying that my mind didn't drift back and forth between replacing the implants and not. Dr. B. communicated that if I so desired, he could put in a 195cc silicone with the lift if I wanted to end up with a full B cup. If I chose to do the explant + lift (no replacement), I will likely be an A cup. Of course my mind was racing because of the overload of information, that I wasn't fully processing the step by step explanation of both options. Keeping in mind that I am about 10 pounds heavier that my usual, I am at peace with the possibility of being 5'4", 145lbs, with a flat A cup.
After coming home and discussing the consultation with my super supportive husband, I realized that I didn't have full clarity on some of the questions I asked Dr. B..... mainly because my brain was in shock. :-) I scheduled my surgery for Nov. 1st (22 days away!), and as for clarity on the process for the route that my husband and I have decided (Explant + Mastopexy (Lift) + Capsulectomy). I believe that Dr. B. told me that he will perform a capsulectomy to remove the implants AND capsules, full lift using an anchor incision (my BA incision is inframammory), and make my areola smaller per request. My pre-op appt. is in 2 days, and I couldn't be more excited to go over the final details and just get these darn THINGS OUT!!!!
I have attached my before photos that I took head on in the mirror. You can see the difference in the contracted breast (left), and the right breast. The countdown begins. God bless, and thank you in advance to any prayer warriors that are out there.
Now, here is my story:
At age 22, about a year after breastfeeding my first child, I was unhappy with the deflated 36C that I was left with. In hindsight I would be thrilled to have those breasts now, but as a very young woman, had major self-esteem issues in relation to my body. Dr. Jeffrey Marvel (Nashville, TN) was the surgeon that I consulted with about breast augmentation, and was ultimately who performed my BA. Let me take a moment to overemphasize that I would NEVER refer another woman to Dr. Marvel if my life depended on it. I told him that I wanted an augmentation because I did't like the mushiness and droopiness of my breasts, and I wanted to be a full C again. That is where the consultation ended. He simply told me that he could make my dreams come true by putting in a 550cc silicone implant over the muscle. I was young and impressionable, making the mistake of little research. I should have asked more questions. I wish that Dr. Marvel had given professional opinion on ALL of my options. Had I known that a smaller implant + lift were an option (and a better one) I would have definitely chosen that route. WELL, the BA was completed and I came out of surgery with breasts that were not the full C that we'd discussed: I WAS TERRIFIED at the sight of my brand new 36 full DD. I am 5'4", and weighed about 130lbs at the time of the BA. IMMEDIATE REGRETb , and have lived the last 9 years trying to disguise my top heavy rack! Shirts don't fit properly, dresses don't fit properly, and finding a bathing suit top that is supportive enough is an absolute nightmare without special order.
4 years after after my BA, I had a second child, proving that my breast would stretch and grow once again. The implants have felt heavy and disproportionate since day 1, but even mores after having another child. Gravity took them lower pretty quickly as the implants were on top of the muscle and the breast tissue has been supporting a 550cc implant. WOW.
Fast forward, a couple of months ago I began experiencing an "internal pain" in my left breast. At first it felt like a giant air pocket between my implant and muscle, but has progressed to a mild burning behind the areola. I began talking to my husband about the discomfort, and he suggested that I go see a PS for a consultation/opinion. Per a dear friends referral, I knew that I wanted to talk to Dr. Michael Burgdorf (Nashville, TN). I anxiously awaited my appointment with Dr. Burgdorf for about one month, and watched my breasts change before my own eyes. Literally, in that month's time, my right breast became visibly lower than the left (like 1 WHOLE INCH lower). Symmetry has not every been an issue for me, so I was anxious to hear what the doctor had to say.
My consultation with Dr. Burgdorf was about 3 weeks ago, and I have nothing but great things to say about he and his staff. They were warm, welcoming, and Dr. Burgdorf was prepared to answer my 1,000 questions. I was nervous that he would try to convince me that I HAD to replace my implants with smaller once to look normal. Dr. Burgdorf confirmed that I am at a late Stage 3 Capsular Contracture on my left breast; and agreed that the implants have to come out. He listened to me while I expressed my desire to explant and lift without putting any other foreign objects in my body. He was very honest about the aesthetic difference, and that my breasts will most definitely lack projection and fullness without an implant in that pocket. During the appointment I began to consider the possibility of ending up with deformed breasts. I'm not going to lie in saying that my mind didn't drift back and forth between replacing the implants and not. Dr. B. communicated that if I so desired, he could put in a 195cc silicone with the lift if I wanted to end up with a full B cup. If I chose to do the explant + lift (no replacement), I will likely be an A cup. Of course my mind was racing because of the overload of information, that I wasn't fully processing the step by step explanation of both options. Keeping in mind that I am about 10 pounds heavier that my usual, I am at peace with the possibility of being 5'4", 145lbs, with a flat A cup.
After coming home and discussing the consultation with my super supportive husband, I realized that I didn't have full clarity on some of the questions I asked Dr. B..... mainly because my brain was in shock. :-) I scheduled my surgery for Nov. 1st (22 days away!), and as for clarity on the process for the route that my husband and I have decided (Explant + Mastopexy (Lift) + Capsulectomy). I believe that Dr. B. told me that he will perform a capsulectomy to remove the implants AND capsules, full lift using an anchor incision (my BA incision is inframammory), and make my areola smaller per request. My pre-op appt. is in 2 days, and I couldn't be more excited to go over the final details and just get these darn THINGS OUT!!!!
I have attached my before photos that I took head on in the mirror. You can see the difference in the contracted breast (left), and the right breast. The countdown begins. God bless, and thank you in advance to any prayer warriors that are out there.
Jillian2420's provider
Replies (24)
October 11, 2016
I am doi g the same. Mine is being done in two stages to minimize the risk of nipple loss. My implants are 700 cc overs and they've been in there - well I've had several sets - for almost 25 years. My Dr too says I'll likely want a smaller implant put back in. Honestly I'm done with the fake boob thing. They just aren't practical, can't be good for your health, and to continue having to replace and replace and replace isn't something I want to do. Your surgery date will be here before you know it. This site is a great place to find support. I've connected with a number of remarkable women and hope I can be a resource for you too! Congrats on your decision. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!
October 12, 2016
Lisa0714, your surgery date is getting close! Congrats on your decision as well! Please keep us all posted on your progress. This website, and all of the unique stories that it has delivered to me, has been a Godsend! Best of luck to you in about week from now! Prayers for a seamless explant and recovery.
October 12, 2016
Thank you. I'll be sure to let you know how I feel after. I'm excited and ready! Have you seen how cute little bras are now? I'm going to have the cutest wardrobe of matching sets. No more interviews or matronly thick-padded minimizer bra straps. Oh la la! The possibilities are going to be endless for us!
October 13, 2016
Thanks for sharing your story, I look forward to your updates. Best of luck!
October 16, 2016
You are in my prayers. You won't regret this. You're lucky in a way as it hasn't been in for so long and you don't mention health problems and trust me, they are all too common! God Bless you.
October 18, 2016
Other than the pain and discomfort of the capsular contracture, I've been pretty fortunate. So ready to have them OUT, and to be able to pull my shoulder blades together with no shame or pain.
October 21, 2016
You are in great hands. Dr. Burgdorf is truly AMAZING!!! He did my BA and outer thigh lipo and my result is PERFECT!! I love him and his staff. He truly listens to you and I can say that he exceeded my every expectation. You will be so happy you chose him. Good luck.
October 23, 2016
Bernb77, He and his staff had me at first consult. I completely agree that he listens to what you're actually communicating. Thank you for your optimistic input!
UPDATED FROM Jillian2420
13 days pre
2 Weeks cannot pass fast enough
Okay, so the reality is starting to set in regarding my surgery date. If one can experience excitement and terror simultaneously; I'm there! I am nervous about the unknown and primarily the healing process. Dr. Burgdorf expressed that he does not like to use drains, but will know if they are necessary after he has me in surgery. From all of the reviews I have read, the stories and photos of the drains scare me the most. My skin is typically VERY slow to heal so the thought of a drain site healing freaks me out. My skin is super reactive to medical tape and band aids that are left in for more than a day. AHHH.
On the other hand, I am ecstatic at the thought of joining the IBTC. Though I've only purchased one additional sports bra for post-op compression, I have walked the aisles of every department store to admire the B cup bras. I long for the day that my neck and back feel muscle relief and a relaxed posture.
Today, I was inadvertently forced to fill my 9-year old daughter in on my secret about the upcoming surgery. Until now, I have only discussed it with "need-to-know group" as they'll be the ones pitching in while I'm down (hubby, mother in law, boss). Well....I work at a public school, and my boss accidentally made reference to my surgery while my daughter was standing there. ***palm to forehead***. I had planned to sit down and talk to Little Miss a week out. She is much like myself in that I knew she would worry when there is no such need. SO, we had "the talk" today. ????????
I started by reading Psalm 139:14 with her, "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." I went on to explain that I believe God made us each EXACTLY the way that He intended to. He made no mistakes, and our physical appearance is just one example of His flawless masterpiece. I also told her that there have been times in my life that I compared myself to others, questioned how God could possibly have unconditional love for me, and in turn was unable to love myself as a beautiful masterpiece. As I grew older and started a family, my body changed as most women's do. I believed that I needed to undergo a BA to fit my own distorted image of what I was "supposed" to look like. Fortunately enough, my body is starting to reject the foreign material that I put into my it, making surgery necessary now. I now accept and cling to the love that God has for me, and the favor that I have been given through a healthy 30 years. I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that it was so very necessary for me to share that part of my story with my precious 9-year old today. She is awkward, beautiful, unsure, developing, intelligent, curious, and a fellow masterpiece of God. Over and over again, she will need to witness me living as an example of a woman who loves herself and her body aside from all of its imperfections. Cellulite, scars, broad shoulders, wide feet, and a crooked nose....I am a masterpiece. She has likely inherited some of those features, and I NEVER want her to view them as "not good enough". I feel better now that I've told her. Even if it does mean that she asks a million questions in the next 2 weeks.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear that I have no judgement towards anyone who chooses plastic surgery to better themselves. We each have our own journey and my daughter is likely to log her own plastic surgery experience one day, with no concern of my opinion. I will support her in whatever she decides; I will only encourage her to do her homework and research before she goes under the knife. We're in an information era; we just have to acknowledge the info.
Thank you for making this journey with me,
Jillian2420
On the other hand, I am ecstatic at the thought of joining the IBTC. Though I've only purchased one additional sports bra for post-op compression, I have walked the aisles of every department store to admire the B cup bras. I long for the day that my neck and back feel muscle relief and a relaxed posture.
Today, I was inadvertently forced to fill my 9-year old daughter in on my secret about the upcoming surgery. Until now, I have only discussed it with "need-to-know group" as they'll be the ones pitching in while I'm down (hubby, mother in law, boss). Well....I work at a public school, and my boss accidentally made reference to my surgery while my daughter was standing there. ***palm to forehead***. I had planned to sit down and talk to Little Miss a week out. She is much like myself in that I knew she would worry when there is no such need. SO, we had "the talk" today. ????????
I started by reading Psalm 139:14 with her, "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." I went on to explain that I believe God made us each EXACTLY the way that He intended to. He made no mistakes, and our physical appearance is just one example of His flawless masterpiece. I also told her that there have been times in my life that I compared myself to others, questioned how God could possibly have unconditional love for me, and in turn was unable to love myself as a beautiful masterpiece. As I grew older and started a family, my body changed as most women's do. I believed that I needed to undergo a BA to fit my own distorted image of what I was "supposed" to look like. Fortunately enough, my body is starting to reject the foreign material that I put into my it, making surgery necessary now. I now accept and cling to the love that God has for me, and the favor that I have been given through a healthy 30 years. I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that it was so very necessary for me to share that part of my story with my precious 9-year old today. She is awkward, beautiful, unsure, developing, intelligent, curious, and a fellow masterpiece of God. Over and over again, she will need to witness me living as an example of a woman who loves herself and her body aside from all of its imperfections. Cellulite, scars, broad shoulders, wide feet, and a crooked nose....I am a masterpiece. She has likely inherited some of those features, and I NEVER want her to view them as "not good enough". I feel better now that I've told her. Even if it does mean that she asks a million questions in the next 2 weeks.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear that I have no judgement towards anyone who chooses plastic surgery to better themselves. We each have our own journey and my daughter is likely to log her own plastic surgery experience one day, with no concern of my opinion. I will support her in whatever she decides; I will only encourage her to do her homework and research before she goes under the knife. We're in an information era; we just have to acknowledge the info.
Thank you for making this journey with me,
Jillian2420
Replies (17)
October 19, 2016
I love your story. Thank you for sharing. I like how you handled it with your daughter. I am researching plastic surgeons in FL now to have my silicone implants removed. The left is contracted and recently ruptured. It has now developed inflammation and possibly an infection. I am having a difficult time finding a Dr. who is willing to do the surgery. I finally received a referral from a Dr. and will be calling in the morning to schedule a consultation.
October 24, 2016
Mrwagner59, have you tried to locate a doctor through the doctor finder feature on this site? I'm sure you've already covered that base, but thought I'd ask. All in the right timing, you will have a doctor that you're 100% about, and on your way to surgery!!! Best of luck.
October 20, 2016
I think your explanation to your daughter was wonderful!!! My surgery is set for Dec 5, we can heal together!!
October 24, 2016
Thank you, smallerboobsplz! Surgery can't come fast enough, huh? Definitely keep us posted on your progress, and let us know how we can support you!
October 20, 2016
My explanation was today and I can tell you that despite the ridiculous swelling and compression my shoulders already feel like the weight of the world has been lifted. I don't regret having them removed at all. I checked my profile in the mirror earlier and my husband and I both smiled and said look how tiny you are. I feel real, happy and relieved they are out. I'm a bit apprehensive about looking at them in a few days. I'm going to give myself plenty of love and healing time before I commit to a lift. Likely I'll need it but you never know. I'll post a pic or two tomorrow. That is - if I'm not asleep all day. I seem to have my days and nights mixed up! ⌛
October 24, 2016
Lisa0714, can't wait to see pics! Definitely give yourself plenty of time to heal.
October 21, 2016
Congrats on your explant coming up! I'm in the same boat but haven't decided on whether I will allow my previous ps to remove them.. I will also need a lift. Such a roller coaster, but I imagine I will feel so free after! I know I will hate the scars but I already I'm halfway there with an ugly donut lift so I figure why not?! At least I can have improved shape even though I think the scars will always make me uncomfortable. It helps me a lot to see so many who have healed beautifully on this site. Gives me a lot of much needed hope in this crappy situation! Wishing you all the best and I will follow your journey! :)
October 24, 2016
Hopedforbetter, follow your instinct where surgeons are considered. If you weren't 100% sold on your previous PS, it might be worth a little extra research and consult. I couldn't agree more, how the support of this site has given me courage and clarity on so many of my questions. We're here for you! Keep us posted, and. Eat of luck on your journey!
October 21, 2016
Your story is VERY similar to mine and I enjoyed reading it. My daughter is 10 and I am about to have the same talk with her. Thankfully, no one has "slipped" in front of her yet, but then again, only my husband knows about my future procedure. Our age, size and instant regret are all very similar as well. I am still in the process of choosing a surgeon to schedule, but I too am having the explant, capsulectomy and lift. I look forward to your after pictures and recovery reviews. I hope all goes well for you and I'll be praying.
October 24, 2016
Thank you for your input and support. Definitely let us know if you find a surgeon that you love. I will do my best to post updates and pictures through my recovery. Thank you for the prayers; sending some right back to you.
UPDATED FROM Jillian2420
Day of treatment
Surgery Day
Well, THEY'RE GONE! I already feel so much lighter and thinner. My surgery was at 7am this morning, and I was home and resting by 12pm. My husband has been the most careful and sweet nurse since we got home. Feeling very fortunate to have him. Here are the highlights of the day before I go back to sleep:
1. After I got checked in and changed into the gown and socks, the nurse put an anti-nausea patch behind my ear and got my IV started.
2. Doc and anesthesiologist came in to talk last minute details and anesthesia history. 3. They put something in my IV to cut the edge off of the stroll to the ER (I would recommend asking for something as soon as they get the IV in, instead of thinking that you have to panic until they give "the good juice".
4. Surgery lasted about 2.5 hours
5. Much to Dr. B's (and all of our) surprise... he reported that he found no evodence of the Capsular Contracture he previously indicated. There was no "ugly tissue" to send to pathology, but I believe he sent a sample anyways. I asked my husband if Doc took out the capsules, but he couldn't recall. I believe they were left in after not finding any defect in either implant or tissue.
6. Recovery room was pleasant, and the nurse gave me Diloted (sp?) to bring my incision pain down from a 6 to a 3 before discharging me. I also discovered that I DONT HAVE ANY DRAINS!!! Praise Jesus!
7. My hubby got me a snack on the way home, gave me 2 Percocet to get ahead of the pain, and helped me get into bed. I rested for a few hours, and woke up to VERY little discomfort.
8. I have maintained a schedule of 1 Percocet every 4 hours as I don't want to be uncomfortable again. My goal is to switch to Tylenol and antibiotic only by day 4. I also took 1 dissolvable anti-nausea tablet to prevent feeling woozy if I move around the house. And lastly, I am going to be taking Miralax daily so the meds done make me even more bloated!! ????
So far, I don't regret it for a moment! I get to shower in 2 days (Thursday), and I'm super pumped to get to take a peak. Until then, here are a couple of pictures I took on my trip to the potty earlier. A little drainage onto the gauze and compression bra. Will change as needed.
Blessings to you all.
1. After I got checked in and changed into the gown and socks, the nurse put an anti-nausea patch behind my ear and got my IV started.
2. Doc and anesthesiologist came in to talk last minute details and anesthesia history. 3. They put something in my IV to cut the edge off of the stroll to the ER (I would recommend asking for something as soon as they get the IV in, instead of thinking that you have to panic until they give "the good juice".
4. Surgery lasted about 2.5 hours
5. Much to Dr. B's (and all of our) surprise... he reported that he found no evodence of the Capsular Contracture he previously indicated. There was no "ugly tissue" to send to pathology, but I believe he sent a sample anyways. I asked my husband if Doc took out the capsules, but he couldn't recall. I believe they were left in after not finding any defect in either implant or tissue.
6. Recovery room was pleasant, and the nurse gave me Diloted (sp?) to bring my incision pain down from a 6 to a 3 before discharging me. I also discovered that I DONT HAVE ANY DRAINS!!! Praise Jesus!
7. My hubby got me a snack on the way home, gave me 2 Percocet to get ahead of the pain, and helped me get into bed. I rested for a few hours, and woke up to VERY little discomfort.
8. I have maintained a schedule of 1 Percocet every 4 hours as I don't want to be uncomfortable again. My goal is to switch to Tylenol and antibiotic only by day 4. I also took 1 dissolvable anti-nausea tablet to prevent feeling woozy if I move around the house. And lastly, I am going to be taking Miralax daily so the meds done make me even more bloated!! ????
So far, I don't regret it for a moment! I get to shower in 2 days (Thursday), and I'm super pumped to get to take a peak. Until then, here are a couple of pictures I took on my trip to the potty earlier. A little drainage onto the gauze and compression bra. Will change as needed.
Blessings to you all.
Replies (8)
November 2, 2016
Congratulations and welcome to the other side! ! Rest! You're going to feel better very single day! So nice to hear you have a super hubby nurse. Makes you love them even more. Right?
November 2, 2016
Thank you Lisa0714! You're journey has been a huge motivation. Hang in there tootsie, I think that your most recent picture looks amazing. Your skin has already made SO much progress from your description of your first peek. I can't wait to see what I look like under all of this wrapping.
November 2, 2016
But you feel lighter right? That's the best part! You'll feel better every day! Hugs to you!
November 2, 2016
Yeah! So glad to hear you are doing well, I am sure you, like most of us, are thrilled to be rid of those foreign bodies!!! Take it easy and know you are one day closer to feeling amazing!!!
November 2, 2016
64purplepeanuts, I am SO RELIEVED that they're out! Thanks for your encouragement through this process. Every little comment helps us, as women, to know that we're not in it alone.
November 3, 2016
How are you feeling today? Stopping by to say hi! Hoping you're healing well
November 3, 2016
Feeling even better. Still very little pain, and I got to take a 'shower'. HURRAY for clean parts.
Hey there, and welcome! Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us. I hope you'll get lots of support from the community. Have you checked out the Breast Implant Removal forum yet? Here's a great post to get you started. Hope you'll enjoy reading it. Good luck, and please keep us updated.
Breast Implant Removal Tips (Pre-op, Surgery Day, and Post-op)
You're welcome!