It’s just past 5AM and my explant surgery consultation isn’t until 3PM, but I am already preparing. I’m nervous, excited, scared, worried and just looking forward to getting it over with.

I dug through my files for my original implant information card from 20 years ago and printed out a list of questions for the plastic surgeon. I also printed out the information from HerScan where they mention the possible ruptures.

If you missed that story, click here to read about my visit to HerScan for a breast ultrasound.

I’m Googling explant stories and trying to absorb all the information I’ve been trying not to drive myself crazy with as I waited over a month for a consultation with the best surgeon I could find. This is not something you should go bargain shopping for.

I try to keep focusing on all the positive aspects and less on the scary surgery part. Because just thinking about stitches and scars freaks me out.

Out of curiosity, I asked the WordPress AI assistant to give me some positive aspects of breast implant removal, and here’s what it came up with:

• Relief from Physical Discomfort: Many individuals experience relief from physical discomfort after breast implant removal, such as back or shoulder pain.
• Improved Health: Removing breast implants can lead to improved overall health and well-being.
• Enhanced Body Confidence: Some individuals find that removing their breast implants leads to increased body confidence and self-esteem.
• Embracing Natural Appearance: Many people feel empowered and liberated by embracing their natural appearance after implant removal.
• Peace of Mind: For those dealing with concerns about potential implant issues, removal can bring peace of mind and alleviate anxiety.

All good things that I agree with, but I could also add things like:

• Not holding my chest when running up and down stairs.
• Not needing a supportive sports bra just to drive my bouncy golf cart.
• Instant weight loss.
• Fitting into some of my old t-shirts.
• Having an easier time finding a good fitting bikini top.
• Being more comfortable while lying on my stomach.

So, my “good things” list is a lot longer than the bad things list, which includes scary surgery and scars. I will also occasionally miss the aesthetic effect of really filling out certain dresses and costumes, but that’s what push-up bras and inserts were made for.

I have several more hours to try and calm myself before the drive to the surgeon’s office, which is about 45 minutes away.

Wish me luck 🙂

Update: The consultation went well, and surgery is scheduled for July 17, 2024!

About the Author

Candy Keane is a digital content creator and long-time cosplayer, most well-known for being on the cover of the Star Wars documentary Jedi Junkies. After making costumes professionally for over a decade, she now writes about geek culture and mom life, and continues to cosplay for fun, while sharing her love of costumes on Instagram @SewGeekMama. Her first children’s book, I’m Going to My First Comic Convention, was published in 2020 and won a Story Monsters Approved award for Excellence in Literature.

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