5th Surgery- Back to Feeling Normal. Pepper Pike, OH

I will start by saying that I had 4 breast surgeries, before deciding to explant. My first surgery was in 2012; At 31 years old, I had saline 300 cc placed under the muscle, and a lift. Originally I had only wanted a lift; however after several consultations in NY and NJ, I was convinced that I would only look "normal" if I got the implants. My breasts were a full C, but drooped due to genetics. 6 months after my first surgery, and my breasts were 1 cup size apart. The same doctor performed a second surgery, replacing both implants with 350 cc. I waited almost a year to heal; however, my left side would not drop. The implant was still by my collar bone. My doctor told me to keep pushing on it, laying on it, etc; nothing worked, and it just hurt me. He then performed my 3rd surgery, cutting out the scar tissue on the left side and pulling the implant down. At first the implants looked pretty even, and equal in size. Somewhere between 2013-2014, the left implant began migrating. It would roll into my armpit and ribs, whenever I laid down. When I bent forward, I could see the two bags. I went back to the same PS, and he told me it should just heal over time; it never did, and the pain never went away.

Last year, I consulted with another PS, who advised me that the left pocket was ripped, and the saline implants had stretched out my skin again. He recommended gummy silicone replacements, and repair of my pockets. I consulted with 3 more surgeons with my desire to remove the implants; however, they all told me that I would have ugly, deflated breasts, and none of them wanted to perform an explant. Stupid me, for not doing any research at the time; I went back to the PS who had operated on several tv stars, and had the gummy replacements done as recommended. I later found out that my pockets were ripped from the 3 prior surgeries, and the left saline implant was actually flipped over. I felt confident that I was now fixed.

Fourth surgery with the gummy silicone replacement, second lift and pocket repair surgery, and I was still in pain. When the swelling went down, I noticed that I was also way too big; much bigger than I had advised would be comfortable for me. (I believe 405cc.) My PS advised that he had to go bigger, because I was stretched out. However, I feel that this was just his own personal preference; he was not concerned with what I wanted. In addition, the left side was much higher than the right again. By the time my 6 month post op came, the implant on my right side had ripped through the muscle and was popping out into my cleavage. My breasts were too big, uneven, and oddly shaped. They made me feel very insecure, and I spent a year hiding them. When I went back for my last appointment, I had told my PS my concerns. He kept telling me I looked great, and he made me look much better than I did. After over $14k, I felt embarrassed of myself; he was not understanding at all. Ultimately, he offered to inject fat in my right breast to mask the implant popping out. I told him that I wanted them removed. He explained how unhappy I would be, how I would be lumpy and full of scar tissue, and how ugly I would feel. He then quickly, sent in his nurse to deal with me, as he was totally uncomfortable and left the room. She explained that he would take them out in the office, under local. (20 minute procedure) However, the nurse agreed that I would look ugly, and that I should really think about it.

And so, I did. I also did a lot of research and discovered the proper way to remove implants, especially silicone, is "en bloc." The implant needs to be removed with the scar tissue capsule, so that these toxins do not leak into the bloodstream. Also, it prevents the lumpy appearance of scar tissue. I then read many of the stories on here, and gained the courage to stick to my decision and explant. (Thank you ladies!) It's important to understand that even the most famous breast implant surgeons have little to no experience in explanting. They are not comfortable doing this, because they do not know how to do this correctly. Any surgeon can implant and most surgeries will at least look good, but it takes a special kind of surgeon to perform a proper explant.

I found Dr. Feng in Ohio, and spoke on the phone with her director, Linda Haas. Linda was super nice, and totally sympathetic with my situation. She made me feel very comfortable; so comfortable and confident in Dr. Feng's expertise, that I scheduled the pre-op and surgery during the call. Even though it seemed far away, many of her patients have traveled much further than me; at least I could drive there. The office staff was always kind, and helped me whenever I had any questions. Linda sent me a package with complimentary vitamins, hotel info, and all the info on my surgery. She was very sweet throughout the entire process.

My surgery was last month, and I can say that everything went smoothly. I had the explant, a lift, muscle reattachment and scar tissue removal. I finally found a doctor who would listen to me. Dr. Feng is a beautiful person, both inside and out. She is an expert and artist in her field. The nursing staff Megan, Karla & Jean were absolutely wonderful; they really eased my nerves and took care of me. I now have perky, healthy breasts. They are small, natural and beautiful. I'm no longer carrying around those heavy bags. My only regret is that I did not find her sooner.

Ladies no matter where you are, Dr. Feng is worth the trip and the money.