8 Ways To Emotionally Prepare For Surgery

Deciding to explant can be a nerve wrecking decision, to say the least. Anxiety, anxiousness and fear get the best of us.

“What if something happens to me during surgery?”

“Will my husband still be attracted to me?”

“What if I’m completely flat or deformed?”

These are all totally normal thoughts and concerns.

 

I’m a believer in the power of the mind, and how it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use to your advantage to turn any circumstance or situation around. 

 

Instead of focusing on what could go wrong or what you don’t want (regarding any area of life), you want to focus on only positive outcomes and what you do want.

“I don’t want to be in pain after surgery. It’s not going to be a slow or difficult surgery.“, is incorrect.

“I’m going to feel amazing after my surgery! It’s going to go by quick and everything will go smooth!”, is correct.

You don’t want to say words like pain, slow and difficult. Instead you want to choose words that you want, like amazing, quick and smooth. 

Make sense?

 

Your body picks up on words.

Words carry a vibration.

That vibration will either empower you or weaken you – quite literally.

 

Here are eight things that’ll help emotionally prepare you for surgery:

 

1. EFT or emotional freedom technique. Brad Yates is one of the most popular EFT leaders and teachers you can learn from. Essentially, emotional freedom technique is a healing technique that can cure physical, emotional and performance problems. When correctly performed, EFT combines the benefits of conventional cognitive therapy with the physical benefits of meridian stimulation. The idea behind EFT is that emotional stress can diminish the body’s natural healing ability. The technique utilizes the Chinese meridian system, which consists of a complicated network of energy circuits running through our bodies. EFT utilizes two simultaneous processes: while we concentrate on the specific emotional, physical or performance issue to be fixed, we tap certain meridian points on our body with our fingertips. Tapping, as it’s also called, is very easy to learn and can be used anytime and anywhere.

2. Visualization and Meditation. In an eight week study, a meditation called “Mindfulness Meditation”, reduced the inflammation response caused by stress. Meditation has also been shown to reduce anxiety, decrease blood pressure and improve sleep. Visualization can go hand in hand with meditation! While you’re sitting in a quiet place, visualize yourself full of energy, strong and happy. Visually take yourself through a fun filled day doing all things that you haven’t been able to do in a while. If you can see it, you can achieve it. You’ll see it when you believe it – not the other way around.

3. Journal. If you’re too fidgety or meditating isn’t your thing, writing in a journal is good way to get your feelings out on paper. Journaling alone is therapeutic, and is a good way to get things out of your head and out in front of you. Journaling about your feelings, symptoms and what you look forward to will be interesting to look back at one day.

4. Communicate as much as possible. Bottling things up inside is not healthy. If you’re feeling nervous, scared or anxious about your surgery or symptoms, speak to someone about it. I have a safe Facebook group, Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation And Education By Christina, that is full of women just like you. They are on all walks of their journey. Some are waiting to explant, some just discovered Breast Implant Illness and some have explanted and are looking for support with recovery and healing. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, we welcome you. 

5. Don’t get consumed or side tracked by other peoples story’s. Something I did while waiting for my surgery, that I wish I wouldn’t have, was listening to too many peoples story’s about their explant surgery. Some story’s were so horrific! Everything from leaking implants, longer than expected surgeries, to infections afterwards – I was freaking myself out. I know the feeling of being excited and nervous about your explant, but be careful and mindful what you expose yourself to on social media and online.

6. Watch funny movies. Laughing is so good for the body! Did you know that laughing has been shown to boost your T-cell count? T-cells are specialized immune system cells that fight off sickness. Laughing also releases endorphines, eases anxiety and tension and improves your overall well-being. Plus, laughing just feels good. When was the last time you had a good belly laugh?

 

7. Have faith and release what you can’t control. As much as I’m a control freak who likes to know what’s going on at all times, I’m also really good at letting go of what I have no control over. When I hear someone tell me that they’re worried about surgery or about the way they’ll look, I find myself reminding them that no matter what they do or how well they plan for surgery, these two things are ultimately out of their control. No matter what you do, how much you plan or how much you worry, it won’t change or help anything. All you can really control are your emotions, thoughts and actions. 

8. Learn as much as you can about the procedure and your surgical team. Like I mentioned above, peace of mind and knowing how things work is what helps me emotionally. I do not like to be in the dark, especially when it comes to my health and safety. During your consultation ask questions, get to know your surgeon, get familiar with the procedure and what to expect afterwards. 

 

Is there something you do that I didn’t mention? Comment below and tell me.

If you’re on Facebook, join my community Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation and Education With Christina

Not on Facebook? Find me on Instagram! 

 

here’s to newfound health, rejuvenation and massive self-love,

🖤Christina Dennis

 

Medical Tests To Order For Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness

Why is it that some women get ill from their breast implants, while others can have them 10+ years and only have one to two symptoms?

In my opinion, I think it has to do with a few things –

  • how healthy you were when you got breast implants
  • how well you took care of your body after afterwards
  • whether or not you’ve been exposed to things like the Epstein Barr Virus, mold, parasites, etc.

 

Having a weakened immune system will definitely have an effect on your overall health.

For me, personally, I was pretty healthy when I got my breast implants at the age of 23 and I took great care of my body afterwards. I didn’t start feeling any Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness until five years after I got them.

Over the years I’ve been working with a naturopathic doctor who is very knowledgable when it comes to autoimmune issues, viruses, parasites, the thyroid and adrenals. I originally went to him because my body was freaking the freak out.

Last December I was experiencing:

  • major anxiety/panic attacks
  • major depression
  • racing heart upon waking/elevated cortisol
  • extreme fatigue
  • light headedness upon standing
  • major brain fog
  • no motivation to do anything
  • lack of appetite
  • feeling that I’m dying

I was off my rocker. 

We did some blood and saliva tests to see what’s up and to get a baseline of what’s going on with my body. From there I was prescribed blends of natural herbs and supplements. Within five to six weeks I was feeling much better.

 

These are some labs that I had done to check on things like my thyroid, adrenals, blood cell count, inflammation markers and important vitamins.

 

1.When looking at your thyroid check your FREE T3, FREE T4, reverse T3, TSH, TPO ab, and TG ab markers. For those that have a hard time losing weight, they’re typically hypo-thyroid. For those that have a hard time putting on weight, they’re typically hyper-thyroid. Not in all cases, though. For instance, I’m working with a lady who is overweight and has hyper-throidism. Every body is different.

2. The thyroid controls your body temperature. If your gland produces too much thyroid hormone, your temperature rises – and vice versa. The Temperature Test is another good one to get checked if you’re experiencing hot flashes or cold extremities.

3. Iodine levels are good to check. Iodine deficiency has been linked to so many ailments, like low thyroid function and abnormal enlargement of the thyroid glands.

4. When looking into your adrenals, check your Cortisol, DHEA-S, Estadiol, Pregnenlone, Progesterone, Testosterone Free and Total, and your Sex Hormone Binding Globuline markers.

5. CRP-C and ESR monitor your inflammation markers. A body with high inflammation markers (chronic inflammation) is prone to experiencing fatigue, rashes, abdominal pain, chest pain and getting sick more. If you’re experiencing IBS, Chrohns Disease, gas, bloating, and food allergies, your gut could be inflamed.

6. If you’re experiencing auto-immune symptoms, check your ANA AntiNuclear Antibodies. Some autoimmune diseases include Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Celiac Disease, Sjogrens Syndrome, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Multiple Sclerosis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Type 1 Diabetes, Aloepecia Areata, Vasculitis and Temporal Arteritis. Quite a few women get diagnosed with one or more of these, or have these symptoms but a negative diagnosis, after getting breast implants.

7. If you catch every virus and bacterial infection that crosses your path, have your doctor make an order to check your NK CELLS. Immunodeficiency disorders prevent your body from fighting off infections and diseases. If you get sick a lot and it takes you awhile to recover, this could be why.

8. Mycoplasma (small typically parasitic bacteria) is another lab to look into if you feel like you have a cold you can’t knock. There are five different strands, so you’ll need to discover which one it is should you test positive.

9. If you’re always tired or have swollen lympnodes, it’s good to rule out things like Epstein Barre Virus, Lyme and Herpes. After I got my implants, my flare ups got more frequent because my immune system got compromised.

10. CBC and Lipids are good labs to check your white and red blood count for anemia and any infections. Last I checked, my total white blood count was low and my monocytes (another type of white blood cells) were extremely elevated.

11. Iron and Ferritine tests can check to see if any iron derangement’s are going on.

12. B12 and Folate levels are good to monitor, especially if your energy is low and you have the MTHFR gene.

13. If you experience depression or have low bone density, checking your Vitamin D level is a good idea. You need adequate vitamin D to absorb calcium and to regulate mood. Simply go out in the sun for 15 minutes a day in shorts and a tank top!

 

Other Tests To Consider:

 

This website has more information on labs and is where I researched and found some of the tests listed above, although most of them I had done already over the last couple years because of all the symptoms I was experiencing.

 

I take a few targeted supplements through my naturopathic doctor, Peter Kan. I also take some herbs and supplements that help my gut, immune system and my lymphatic system, kidneys and liver detox.

 

Next time you see your doctor, talk to him/her about ordering some of these to help you figure out what your body is doing, lacking or producing too much of.

 

Alright, I think this is a good start. I’m sure there are a few other medical labs that would be good to look into, but I do not want to overwhelm you. If you’re experiencing symptoms that aren’t mentioned above, speak to your doctor about looking into those as well.

 

Are you on Facebook? Join Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation And Education With Christina 

Here’s where I educate women about Breast Implant Illness and help them heal pre and post explant.

Not on Facebook? Find me on Instagram!

 

here’s to newfound health, rejuvenation and massive self-love,

❤︎ Christina Dennis

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on or through this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal or other professional advice. Always work with your health care professional and surgeon when discussing treatments and supplements. This information is not intended to replace the advice or attention of a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.

Your Implants Don’t Have To Be Leaking For You To Get Sick

Patient: “I want to remove my breast implants, I think they’re making me ill.“

Surgeon: “You’re implants aren’t ruptured or leaking, you’ve only had them for _ years, you shouldn’t be sick. Just replace them.”

I hear about this every. single. day. day. after. day.

 

 

How did my implants look when I explanted?

I’m so glad you asked.

They looked pristine, perfectly intact, just as pretty and new as the day I put them in 12 years ago.

No leaks. No ruptures. Nothing abnormal.

They made me sick, though.

 

  • *brain fog
  • *hard time concentrating
  • *forgetfulness
  • *moodiness
  • *extreme fatigue
  • anxiety and depression bouts
  • *low libido (my poor husband)
  • swollen lymph node in my armpit
  • *blurry vision
  • *eye floaters
  • *ringing in my ears
  • shortness of breath
  • gasping for air
  • *always freezing, especially my extremities
  • *achy, stiff hip every morning
  • *excessive hair loss
  • *dry skin, hair and eyes
  • viral reoccurrences (EBV)
  • *slightly hyperthyroid
  • *whacked adrenals
  • *whacked hormones (especially cortisol)
  • *whacked endocrine system

*I had these daily for years.

 

Since my explant on August 2, 2018, do you want to know how many symptoms are completely gone?

All of them except for shortness of breath and gasping for air. This one still comes and goes but is less frequent.

As far as the bottom five bullet points, I’m going to need to get followup blood work taken to check on them, but I’m going to bet they’re much better just by the way I’ve been feeling and sleeping.

 

If you’re not familiar with me and my experience with breast implants, here’s a super brief rundown. I promise.

I started feeling rundown in 2011, five years after I had my breast augmentation. I was only 28 at this time and felt like my body was falling apart.

For the last seven years I’ve been getting worse, with more symptoms showing up each year and the symptoms from the previous years getting worse.

Here’s the thing…

Since I was 15 years old I’ve been studying nutrition, fitness and all things health.

When I was 23 I took nutrition and dietetics classes in college.

At the age of 25 I become a certified personal trainer.

In 2011 I began doing online health and fitness coaching for women.

I’m a healthy person. I know what to do to take very good care of my body. Yet, I was starting to fall apart.

It seriously scared the ba’jezus out of me!

In October 2014, when a lymph node in my armpit started to get swollen and tender each month, THIS is when I KNEW something was seriously wrong with my body.

In 2015 I saw doctors, had ultrasounds, blood work taken and a mammogram. Nothing abnormal ever popped up.

It was around this time that I began eating more alkaline foods, doing detoxes of all sorts, reading everything published by Chris Wark (Chris Beat Cancer) and Ty Bollinger (The Truth About Cancer) and started removing everything toxic from my household. I completely switched out all of my hygiene products and cleaning products, threw away anything plastic, bought a new shower curtain, threw out all my fragrance- filled hormone disrupting candles and bought soy ones – I went above and beyond to try and figure it out.

 

Little did I know that it had NOTHING to do with my external environment and EVERYTHING to do with my internal environment.

My breast implants.

It took me six years to discover Breast Implant Illness.

Six years of researching like a mad woman, “living” with uncertainty about the health of my future, feeling like zombie from the moment I woke up and never wanting to do anything, to wondering what the hell was wrong with me and my body.

Not. Any. More.

I’mmmmmmm back to my young, vibrant self!

 

And nothing has changed in my diet over the last eight weeks either. I’m doing the exact same things I was two months ago.

The only thing that changed is my surgeon removed two massive foreign objects, that were perfectly intact, from my body.

They weren’t leaking or ruptured, ladies… but they were slowly poisoning me.

Is it a coincidence that after I removed them I got better? I think not.

 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness, and you want your breast implants removed, but a surgeon is telling you to keep them in or to just replace them… run.

I always tell women, “don’t walk in and ask a surgeon what they think you should do or what they think is best for you… tell them that you want your implants out because you think they’re making you sick and you want to explant as soon as possible. And plus, besides the fact, they were never meant to be inside my body in the first place.“

My surgeons office does more explants each week (by far) than they do breast augmentations. This speaks volumes to me.

 

Nobody can look me in the eyes and tell me “if your breast implants aren’t leaking or ruptured, you are fine, healthy and perfectly safe.”

From my own personal experience with Breast Implant Illness, it’s NOT true.

And for the other 100,000+ women who explanted and got better, it’s not true for them either.

🤔it’s not all in your head

😤you’re not just stressed out

👵🏼you’re not just getting older

😩you’re not just a tired new mom

👎🏼these things don’t just run in your family

Breast Implant Illness, as it’s called, is a real thing. And you can get it… even if your implants aren’t ruptured or leaking. 👋🏼 🎤

 

Join my Facebook Group, Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation And Education With Christina

Not on Facebook? You can find me on Instagram!

 

here’s to newfound health, rejuvenation and massive self-love,

♥️ Christina Dennis

22 Things To Do The Days Before Your Explant Surgery

I polled my Facebook Group and my surgeons Facebook Group and asked them “what did you do the week and days leading up to your surgery?” Here’s what I got. 

 

What To Do One Week Prior To Surgery:

    1. *Make sure all of your prescriptions are filled and you know how to take them.

 

    1. *Buy Arnica. This helps with bruising and swelling.

 

    1. Oil of Oregano is an amazing antibiotic. Double check with your surgeon to see if they approve you taking this instead of antibiotics.

 

    1. Get off all medications and supplements that your surgeon doesn’t want you on.

 

    1. *Buy pineapple and/or juice (the bromine in it helps with bruising and healing).

 

    1. *Buy aloe juice and/or prune juice. These are natural laxatives.

 

    1. *Cook off as much food as possible (chicken, rice, vegetables, bone broth, etc.) and cut up fruit. That way you don’t have to cook or cut anything for a few days post-surgery.

 

    1. Stay hydrated, drinking at least half of your body weight in ounces.

 

    1. Get lots of rest.

 

    1. Visualize how you want the surgery to go. “Everything’s going to go smooth and fast. It’s going to be an easy surgery for my surgeon and he/she is going to be well rested and fed. When I wake up I’m going to feel great! MY recovery is going to be a breeze.” Call it in!

 

    1. *Have loose fitting clothes put out. Pulling up jeans and trying to twist into tight tops is going to be slightly complicating. I wore pj pants and short or leggings for weeks (and weeks and weeks).

 

    1. *Dry Shampoo. That’s all I have to say about that, in my Forest Gump voice.

 

 

What To Do One To Three Days Before:

    1. Do all laundry, dishes, sweep and mop the floors, clean the kitty litter, take out the garbage and whatever other chores and errands you need ran (groceries, post office, pay bills, etc.). Having a clean house to come home and not much on your to-do list is the b.e.s.t!

 

    1. *Put things like your shampoo and conditioner, body lotion and body wash, face wash/moisturizer, toothbrush and toothpaste, makeup, toilet paper, supplements/medications, cups and plates in the kitchen and other things at waist height. This way you don’t have to bend down or reach for anything.

 

    1. *Set up your bed or couch with lots of pillows to prop up on and blankets.

 

    1. *Make sure you have a ride to and from surgery.

 

    1. If you’re documenting your journey, like me and so many others, take photos and videos.

 

*bring to or do at the hotel, if traveling.

 

If You’re Staying At A Hotel Or Traveling:

    1. Make sure where you’re staying has a fridge to store perishables and a microwave.

 

    1. Load up on lots of water, fresh fruit and snacks (especially if you’re on medication to have something in your belly).

 

    1. Make sure you have an extra sports bra, a size larger than you think you’ll need, so that if you need to wash your compression bra you’ll have something to put the new ladies in 🙂 You’ll want to be sure it’s slightly larger because you don’t want the bra band to touch your incisions.

 

    1. Lyft has an app where you can schedule a driver to come to you – even in the wee hours of the morning (Uber does not). If you need to get picked up for your one day post-op checkup or need a ‘lyft‘ to the airport, schedule your driver to come beforehand.

 

    1. Check all the above with a ( * ) to be sure you don’t forget anything for the hotel or place you’re staying.

 

 

If I missed anything, I apologize. Please tell me if I did so that I can add it to the list for future readers.

 

Did this help? Comment below and tell me!

Join my Facebook Group  – Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation And Education By Christina

Not on Facebook? Find me on Instagram!

 

here’s to newfound health, rejuvenation and massive self-love,

♥️ Christina Dennis

Toxic Chemicals Found On All Breast Implants

Regardless if you have silicone or saline breast implants, it’s actually the shell that is full of toxic chemicals – not just what’s inside.

I often hear, “but I have saline implants“.

Unfortunately, saline have their own issues and risks.

I’ve seen a dozen saline breast implants online that are infiltrated with mold (Google “moldy breast implants”). Not only do those with saline breast implants have to worry about potential mold, they also have to also be concerned with what the shell is made of.

“Implants are safe”.

Not so much.

Here’s A List Of All The Known Toxic Chemicals Found On The Shell of All Breast Implants:

*don’t ask me what any of these things are lol

  • 2-Hexanone
  • Acetone (neurotoxin)
  • Amine
  • Benzene (carcinogen and neurotoxin)
  • Chloromethane
  • Color Pigments as release agents
  • Cyclohexanone (neurotoxin)
  • Denatured Alcohol
  • Dichloromethane (carcinogen)
  • Ethyl Acetate (neurotoxin)
  • Ethylene Oxide (carcinogen)
  • Epoxy Hardener 10 and 11
  • Epoxy Resin
  • Formaldehyde (oh em gee)
  • Heavy Metals (aluminum and platinum) aka brain destroyers
  • Hexon
  • Isopropyl Alcohol
  • Lacquer Thinner (what!?)
  • Lead Based Solder
  • Metal Cleaning Acid (huh?)
  • Methyl 2-cyanoacrylate
  • Methyl ethyl ketone (neurotoxin)
  • Naptha (rubber solvent)
  • Oakite (cleaning solvent)
  • Phenol (neurotoxin)
  • Printing Ink (why?)
  • Polyvinyl Chloride (neurotoxin)
  • Silica
  • Silicone
  • Sodium Flouride
  • Stearic Acid
  • Talcum Powder (Um?)
  • Thixon-OSN-2
  • Toluene (neurotoxin and carcinogen)
  • Urethane
  • Xylene (neurotoxin)
  • Zinc Oxide (sunscreen ingredient?)

 

Well the only thing that did typing this list out was perfecting my spelling of the words “neurotoxin” and “carcinogen”.

I’m not a chemist, but I am pretty smart. I really don’t think ANY of these should be inside of our body. 🤔

From what I understand these chemicals are what make up the OUTER SHELL OF ALL breast implants – saline and silicone. If I find out otherwise I’ll come back and edit this.

 

Pretty crazy that “they” would tell us something with this many chemicals is safe to implant inside of our body?

I wouldn’t even drink, wash my hair with, breath in or rub any one of these chemicals on my skin… let alone put all of them inside my body for YEARS.

 

You be the judge. ♥️

Join my growing community and Group on Facebook, Breast Implant Illness Rejuvenation and Education By Christina

Not on Facebook? JOIN ME ON INSTAGRAM!

– Christina Dennis

What Does Explanting en Bloc Mean?

En Bloc: all together or all at the same time.

 

En Bloc basically means that they remove your implant AND your capsule (the red stuff that you see attached to implants in the photo) together in one piece.

 

The capsule is the scar that your body forms AFTER you implanted. It does not exist inside of you before your breast augmentation.

Your surgeon should NOT take your implant out FIRST, then go back in and remove your capsule or drain your saline implant (inside you) FIRST (or at all) then go back in to remove your capsule.

Everything is done in one step: removal of both the implant and capsule at the same time.

En Bloc is an EXTREMELY IMPORTANT step because should your implant be ruptured or bleeding silicone through the shell, you do not want to have any toxins or the broken down silicone getting into your blood stream or chest cavity by your vital organs.

Having the implant removed with the capsule attached and wrapped around it is your best option.

If your surgeon does not do en Bloc, doesn’t recommend en Bloc, doesn’t find it necessary or anything in between, he/she is not your surgeon (in my opinion). Keep looking for an explant surgeon who will.

 

1. Surgeons might try to convince you that you don’t need to remove the capsule or that a total Capsulectomy isn’t necessary. I disagree. The capsule can contain bacteria, fungus, micro-organisms, biofilms, silicone and all sorts of toxins. If you want to fully heal, it must be removed – in my opinion.

 

2. A total Capsulectomy is done after your implant and the capsule have been removed en Bloc. This is the step when they go back in and see if any capsule, scar tissue or silicone is stuck to tissue, muscle or your ribs. If they see parts of your capsule or scar tissue are still present they will peel it off, scrap it off or cauterize it to ensure a total capsulectomy is properly performed.

 

3. Make sure, for those who have saline implants, that your surgeon WILL NOT drain the implants before removing them. Be sure to ask him this question during your consultation. There has been high concentrations of mold, fungus and bacteria found inside saline implants. Draining them first will result in all the harmful particles getting into your system, further infecting you and making you even more sick.

 

4. If a surgeon tells you that en Bloc is not necessary (or that they just don’t do it), a full Capsulectomy isn’t necessary (or they just don’t do it) or that they “have to” drain your saline implant first before taking them out… I’d personally choose a different surgeon.

 

With all of this being said, Breast Implant Illness and en Bloc are fairly new. I’ve personally heard from women who left their capsule in and are totally fine, and other women who left the capsule in and remained very sick. The second group of women usually undergo a second surgery, removing the capsule, and actually start the detox and healing process.

 

I think this really all depends on:

  • how sick you are going into your surgery
  • how long you’ve had your implants
  • if you have any underlying illnesses, autoimmune diseases, inflammation or viruses hindering your immune system
  • if your have the MTHFR gene mutation, which makes detoxing almost impossible with some sort of intervention

 

Every BODY is different.

Just like some women can get breast implants and be totally ok… others get sick. It just all depends on your body and health.

If you still have a question, please leave me a comment below or ask me in my Facebook Group, Breast Implant Illness Education and Rejuvenation By Christina.

Not on Facebook? JOIN ME ON INSTAGRAM!

here’s to newfound health, rejuvenation and self-love,

♥️ Christina Dennis

Questions To Ask At Your Explant Consultation

Finding a skilled surgeon is very important. One of the most important things you can do is take your time and interview your surgeon(s). Feel them out, ask for testimonials or photos and be sure they remove your implants en Bloc with a total capsulectomy.

 

This basically means that they remove the implant and the capsule (the red stuff that you see attached to implants when they’re removed) together in one piece. They don’t take the implant out FIRST, then go back in and remove the capsule or drain your saline implant FIRST then go back in to remove the capsule. Everything is done in one step: removal of both the implant and capsule at the same time. A total capsulectomy is when AFTER they remove the implant en Bloc, they then go back in to remove any scar tissue or capsule that may be stuck on your muscle, tissue or ribs.

 

If your surgeon does not do en Bloc, doesn’t recommend en Bloc, doesn’t find it necessary or anything in between, he/she is not your surgeon. Keep looking.

Your procedure should look something like this:

  • anesthesia
  • en Bloc procedure
  • muscle repair (if needed)
  • total capsulectomy
  • *some surgeons wash you out with an antibiotic solution before closing you up to ensure anything they missed gets destroyed
  • *some surgeons also have someone record the surgery for peace of mind

 

If they are double board certified, a micro-surgeon and offer muscle repair, Nerve Bloc, photos and videos that’s an added bonus!

 

Here are the most important questions to ask your surgeon at your explant consultation:

Be sure to print this out, highlight the ones that are most important to you (probably all of them) and bring a piece of paper and pen to take notes. Let him/her know you mean business 💪🏼

* If there is a consultation question with a star (*) by it, you’ll find details below as to why it’s an important question. 

About the surgeon and facility:

  1. Are you a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?
  2. *Do you have hospital privileges? They should.
  3. Do you carry Medical Malpractice Insurance? Why not, if they say no.
  4. Is your facility accredited?
  5. Do you work with insurance? Will you provide me any letters that are required so that I can go through insurance and/or request a refund?
  6. Can I see the pre-surgery paperwork that you require me to sign? Should not be a problem.
  7. Do you have any photos or testimonials I can take a look at? They should.

 

*Question 2. You want to be sure that your surgeon has hospital privileges because if they don’t this is a red flag. Having hospital privileges means this – they are in good standing in the medical community, they are trained and certified in plastic surgery, and should you have a complication, reaction or infection after surgery they can get you entry into the hospital fast. If they do NOT have hospital privileges it could mean that they had malpractice issues and are not in good standing with the medical community. Not only that, should you run into a serious health issue, they can not provide you with any hospital entry service. A surgeon who does not have this privilege can not help you in medical emergency situations.

 

About the procedure:

  1. How many proper explants (en Bloc with total capsulectomy) have you done, approximately? Should be more than 50.
  2. *Do you remove implants en Bloc? Should be “yes”. Why not, if they say no.
  3. Do you do muscle repair if needed? Should be “yes”. Why not, if they say no.
  4. *Do you do a total capsulectomy? Should be “yes”. Why not, if they say no.
  5. Do you use any kind of IV antibiotics when I’m under or wash me with an antibacterial solution?
  6. Are the stitches dissolvable or will they have to be removed later? Make sure they are not using permanent staples or any mesh… nothing foreign in your body.
  7. *Do you or someone else offer photos and/or a recording of my en Bloc being performed and to see that a total capsulectomy was performed and nothing was left behind?
  8. *Do you offer Nerve Block (which is typically optional/an upsell)?
  9. What kind of anesthetic is used during my surgery?
  10. *Is anything added in with the anesthetic?
  11. Will my anesthesiologist be by my side for the entire surgery? They should be.
  12. Will I receive antibiotics during surgery? If so, what kind?
  13. Where are my incisions going to be?
  14. Do you use drains? How long do they usually stay in?
  15. If my implants aren’t ruptured, do I get them back if I want them? If so, make sure they are put in a container.
  16. What kind of prescription medication do you prescribe? Are any of them optional to take? Should be a pain pill, antiobiotic and anti-nausea.
  17. I’m allergic or sensitive to ______________, what else can I take?

 

*Question 2 and 4: When asking the questions about en Bloc and total capsulectomy you want to make sure they DO these two things, with no hesitation. Heres why: some surgeons will opt to deflate the saline from your implants FIRST, then remove the capsule (if they remove the capsule at all – which they should). You do NOT want them to release anything from inside your implant into your bloodstream while it’s still inside of your body. Doing so will cause the toxins and contaminants from inside of the breast implant (mold, bacteria, fungus, microorganisms, etc.) to get into your bloodstream causing an entirely new host of serious Symptoms and Side Effects. Be sure it’s done en Bloc aka the implant and capsule come out together in one piece, as a whole. A total capsulectomy is important because there could be scar tissue, capsule or silicone stuck to your tissue, muscle or ribs. If you want to fully heal, all this must be released and removed. They’ll either do this by peeling it off, scraping it off or cauterizing it out.

 

*Question 7: Opting for a video is good for one big reason: it gives you peace of mind to know that your procedure is en Bloc with a capsulectomy. Be sure you’re very specific as to what You’d like them to capture on video. I recommend that they:

  • show you on the table as they’re getting to your implant
  • doing the en Bloc procedure, cutting the capsule away from your tissue (on both sides)
  • removing the capsule en Bloc from your body, in one piece (on both sides)
  • going back in to perform a capsulectomy, scraping off anything that stuck
  • show your implants, en Bloc, on the table while they are cutting away the capsule to show what’s inside (both implants)
  • I wouldn’t worry about seeing them sew you up, or anything.

 

*Question 8: Nerve Block is something I had during my explant surgery. Essentially, while you’re still under your surgeon will apply Nerve Block to specific nerves in your chest to help alleviate pain for up to three days. This is an upsell, although some surgeons don’t offer this at all. I was glad to pay an extra money and get it to ensure I was comfortable post-explant.

 

*Questions 1o: As far as anesthesia and nitrous oxide goes, if you have the MTHFR gene mutation just be aware that N.O. depletes vitamin B12. So should you happen to have to get it, get your B12 levels checked and take the proper steps of action afterwards.

 

In regards to lymphnodes and pathology:

  1. Do you check to make sure no silicone traveled to my lymphnodes? Do you do any techniques or lymphnode removal should something look wrong?
  2. Do you send my capsule and implants to pathology if you see anything suspicious? If so, is this an additional cost? If so, how much?
  3. Do you swab out my chest pocket and auxiliary area during surgery to check for biofilm, bacteria or micro-organisms?
  4. Before you finish, do you use a solution to clean out my chest pocket and auxiliary area?
  5. In regards to BIA-ALCL – do you do pathology? Are you knowledgable with ALCL? If you see that I have a seroma/effusion, will you aspartate it and send the capsules for CD30 Immuno’histo’chemistry (one word) to rule out BIA-ALCL?

Don’t assume that your surgeon will automatically send off anything to pathology. I left it up to my surgeon as to whether or not he felt it warranted going to pathology. I completely trust him and his decision (plus I got a video). For you, you might demand it to be sent, or you can totally opt out. It’s entirely up to you. Now if your surgeon offers it at no extra charge and includes it with the surgery, go for it. Why not?

 

If you do plan to get a lawyer involved, be sure that your implants are not washed off after surgery. It’s best to have them put in separate containers (not bags) marked LEFT BREAST and RIGHT BREAST. From there it’s best to place them in plastic bags when you get home and place them in the fridge. Do not handle your implants, open the container or wash them. 

 

Because each surgeon has different protocols, these are good to ask to see about their post-op care:

  1. Do you have a sheet that goes over pre and post surgery care as far as supplements, medications, compression garments, wound care and who to contact post-surgery if I have a question or concern? They should.
  2. At my first follow up appointment post-explant, will you provide me with my complete operative reports, any tests you sent off for and photos? They should. If not, when?
  3. How long does it typically take to heal fully?
  4. How long until I can lift light things like bowls, my baby, etc.?
  5. How long until I can raise my arms up over my head to brush my hair, put on a top or wash my hair?
  6. How long until I can lift weights at the gym or exercise?
  7. Do you believe in/are you familiar with how to detox post-explant? Do you offer tests or supplements to help with this?
  8. What are signs of an infection that I can look out for? What are signs of a hematoma or seroma? Who do I contact should this occur – the office or you directly?
  9. Do you like to air out incisions after a week or two, or do you prefer I keep tape on them for the first few weeks, replacing the tape every three days?
  10. At what point do I start massaging my breasts, upper chest area and armpits? What do you recommend I massage them with – coconut oil, CBD oil, Vitamin E, etc.?
  11. About when can I wear a sports bra, more comfortable bra, real bra and/or go braless?
  12. How much is the deposit is to secure my surgery date? Should I need to cancel or postpone, how does that work with the deposit?

 

For the most part, that’s it!

Now you know what to ask and why! You feel more confident and prepared to go in now, don’t you!?

The above questions were collected from my own questions, the questions my members had and then polished from this resource.

–

Stay closely connected with me and women just like you inside my Facebook Group!  My mission is to empower, educate, encourage and support all members from their journey with Breast Implant Illness – Explant to Full Recovery

Not on Facebook? JOIN ME ON INSTAGRAM!

 

♥️ here’s to newfound health and massive self-love,

– Christina Dennis

 

 

Breast Implant Illness Symptoms

Potential Breast Implant Symptoms And Side Effects

Before I get into the laundry list of possible Symptoms and Side Effects associated with BOTH silicone and saline breast implants, I want to mention a few important things.

 

  1. Not every woman experiences Symptoms and Side Effects from breast implants.
  2. Some women never get sick, some women experience a negative reaction right away or within months and some women (like me) it takes years (if not decades if they were implanted in the 1980’s).
  3. It is said that about 40% of women who undergo breast augmentation, no matter the size or placement (above or below the muscle) will at some point experience capsular contracture, hardening, pain and/or the symptoms listed below.

 

If you have an already comprised immune system from things like the EBV (or any viruses or ailments) the chances of you developing these Symptoms and Side Effects could possibly increase or exacerbate your already existing conditions.

 

One of the best pieces of advice I can give you is this: if you take care of your body, yet you feel like a grumpy zombie daily, something is wrong. Listen to your body. Your body gives you Symptoms and Side Effects to communicate with you that something’s wrong. Doctors tend to just throw medication at us and tell us our labs look perfect “you’re healthy”. Listen to your body ♥️

 

From day one, regardless of symptoms, your body will be fighting the implants. It’s basic human physiology. What doesn’t belong, or what the body can’t identify, the body attacks. Things like the endocrine system, lymphatic system, immune system, hormones, thyroid and digestive system are the most common to take a hit and suffer.

 

Here is a list of the most common cluster of Symptoms and Side Effects women with breast implant illness complain of:

*these are all the symptoms I experienced

 

  • *Fatigue
  • *Brain Fog (can’t concentrate, remember things or focus)
  • Headaches/Migranes/Ocular Migraines
  • *Anxiety/Panic Attacks/Depression Bouts
  • *Low Libido/No Sex Drive
  • *Swollen Lympnodes (armpits, groin, neck and pelvis)
  • *Hair Loss/Drying Hair
  • *Dry Skin/Premature Aging
  • Skin Rashes
  • *Sensitivity to Light, Sound and Cold Temperatures
  • *Gasping For Breath/Choking Feeling/Shortness of Breath
  • *Achy Joints, Especially In The Morning (shoulders, hips)
  • Tingling Arms
  • *Cold Hands And Feet
  • Breast Pain
  • Pain Or Burning Sensation Around Implant and Underarm
  • Muscle Pain/Muscle Weakness
  • Swollen Breasts
  • Vertigo/Dizziness
  • Inflammation
  • Weight Gain
  • Insomnia
  • *Vision Floaters/Declined Vision/Dry Eyes
  • Fevers/Night Sweats
  • *Ears Ringing
  • Digestive Issues
  • *Dehydration
  • Frequent Urination
  • Sudden Food Intolerances/Food Allergies
  • Leaky Gut/IBS/SIBO
  • Candida/Yeast Infections/Urinary Tract Infections
  • Slow recovery After Exercising or Activity
  • Slow Healing of Cuts, Scrapes/Bruise Easy
  • *Fungal Infections/Viral Infections/Sinus Infections
  • *New And Persistent Bacterial And Viral infections
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Galbladder Problems
  • *Liver and Kidney Disfunction (often times jaundice/yellowing of the skin)
  • Hypo thyroid and Adrenal Symptoms
  • *Hyper Thyroid and Adrenal Symptoms
  • *Hormonal Imbalances/Decreased Hormones
  • Symptoms or Diagnosis of ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma)
  • Symptoms or Diagnosis of Auto-Immune Diseases (raynauds syndrome, hashimotos, lupus, arthritis, nonspecific connective tissue disease, multiple sclerosis, sjogrens syndrome, scleroderma,
  • *Symptoms or Diagnosis of Epstein Barr Virus
  • Symptoms or Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

 

If you’ve been experiencing any of these Side Effects and Symptoms, got tested and have either been told “you’re fine” or you have a new diagnosis, please join my Facebook Group.

Not on Facebook? JOIN ME ON INSTAGRAM!

I’d love to hear what’s going on with you and offer you the education, empowerment and support you need right now.

This information is not meant to scare you… it’s meant to inform you.

💗- Christina Dennis

Pre-Explant Preparation and Post-Explant Detox

I receive a lot of questions each week in regards to the best ways to detox pre and post explant.

 

Detoxing is a must, but in my opinion should be held off until post-explant. Explanting alone will be a huge detox in and of itself – am I right? I’ve found that being patient and detoxing in phases is the best way to ensure that you don’t bombard your body with too much at once.

 

PRE-EXPLANT should be mainly focused on building up your immune system and preparing your body (mentally, emotionally and physically) for surgery.

 

You can do this simply by:

 

  • eating healthy, reducing inflammatory foods like dairy, wheat and sugar
  • increasing collagen production with bone broth and collagen supplements
  • reduce caffeine intake to under 200mg daily. This will help your adrenals after surgery.
  • taking 5,000-10,000mg of Vitamin C
  • taking a probiotic (heals the gut, immune health – especially if you’ve been on antibiotics)
  • reducing emotional and mental stress as much as possible through meditation, sound therapy, EFT and visualization
  • exercising lightly
  • sweating
  • grounding/earthing
  • sit in a red infrared sauna for 10 minutes
  • dry brush as soon as you wake up and again before you shower
  • rebound on a trampoline for 5 minutes twice daily
  • incorporate essential oils like lemon (healing/detox), frankincense (pretty much everything), lavender (relaxation) and peppermint (energy)

 

4-6 WEEKS POST-EXPLANT is a time to start introducing detoxification, cleansing and healing foods and supplements such as:

 

– Spirulina & Chlorella have been shown to help detox heavy metals
– Milk Thistle is great for the liver
– Amala is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and prevents the toxic effects of heavy metals and pharmaceutical drugs
– Glutathione is the mother of all antioxidants
– Triphala helps aid in detoxification and improves gut health
– Burdock Root cleanses the blood and lymphatic system
– Activated Charcoal is very important because it attracts the toxins, binds to them and pulls them out of the body

 

– Robert Morse is someone a vast majority of women in the BII community swear by, trust and follow post-explant. I highly recommend going to YouTube and listening to his lectures and consider his protocol.
– Turmeric is great for inflammation
– Parsley & Cilantro (fresh or in essential oil form) helps to pull heavy metals out of the body
– Organic green apple & carrot juice mixed together (cancer patients following Gerson Therapy drink this blend. It’s supposedly amazing for pulling heavy metals out)
– Celery juice, by itself, not mixed with any other fruits and vegetables
– Lemons are high in vitamin C, good for the immune system and alkalizes the body
– Pineapple contains bromine which helps with healing (raw and juice)
– Bone broth (soup or powder form)
– Dandelion Tea  helps cleans the kidneys
– Lots & lots of water

 

*continue with the following Post-Explant for at least a year:

 

– eat healthy by reducing inflammatory foods like dairy, wheat and sugar
– reduce your caffeine intake to under 200mg daily. This will help your adrenals after surgery.
– take 5,000-10,000mg of Vitamin C, probiotics, greens powder daily
– reduce emotional and mental stress as much as possible through meditation, sound therapy, EFT and visualization
– exercise lightly
– ground/earthing
– dry brush as soon as you wake up and again before you shower
– incorporate essential oils like lemon (healing/detox), frankincense (pretty much helps with everything), lavender (relaxation) and peppermint (energy)

 

*IMPORTANT: discontinue sweating, the infrared sauna and rebounding for 8 weeks or until you get cleared from your doctor or surgeon

 

It’s encouraged that you to do your own research on every supplement or technique mentioned above in this article to see if they interfere with any medications you’re on or current health issues you are experiencing. Take your time to learn about their health benefits, possible side effects, drug interferences and recommended dosages before starting anything new. The supplement brands that are highlighted above are the exact brands that I use. I make a very small percentage when you make a purchase through the link. I would never recommend anything that I myself have never done extensive research on and never used. Everything recommended above is exactly what I take, recommend, love, trust and have seen and felt results with.

 

Join my Breast Implant Illness Education and Rejuvenation Facebook Group dedicated to helping you pre and post explant and on your journey from breast implant illness to healing & self-love ♥️
– Christina

Six Weird Symptoms I Experienced Immediately After I Explanted

If you’re anything like me (and you haven’t explanted yet) you probably read everyones story after they explanted, fascinated by how good they feel and look immediately after surgery.

Hearing these stories is what kept me hopeful during the long, anxious wait.

I used to live vicariously through everyones posts, thinking “What!? I hope that happens to me after I explant!”

 

And while a lot of the common symptoms, like my achy joints, shortness of breath and swollen lymphnodes all disappeared, some weird ones showed up immediately following my surgery that I did not expect.

 

  • Within the first two hours after I explanted it was like my skin, face and hair was drowning in its own oil. My skin, face and hair used to be so dry and dehydrated no matter how much water I drank or how much moisturizer I slathered onto it. I remember going to a spa in mid-2017 to get a facial and the aesthetician said “you have beautiful skin, it’s just a little dehydrated, that’s why you have so many fine lines. If you up your water intake that should help some“. I thought “that’s odd, I drink soooo much water“. Since explanting my skin/face is SO oily, shiny and vibrant.

 

  • The first two days after I explanted my eyes were burning and watering like crazy. I thought this was so weird. I have only heard about this happening to one other person after she explanted. Every since my surgery on 8/2/18 my eyes are a lot less dry and blurry, so maybe that’s just what it did to help restore my eyes and vision.

 

  • Since early 2018, out of the blue, my left nostril started to get really crusty while I was sleeping. I would wake up in the morning with my left nostril 80% blocked with crusty, bloody, hard boogers. I began wondering if we had mold in our house or if something was going on with my brain and dripping out of my nose (anxiety-filled and anxious people tend to think nonsense🙃). I experienced this, I’d say, for a solid three months before I explanted, every… single… morning. Since the day of my explant it’s been gone. Like 100% gone, no boogers, nothing. So strange, right?

 

  • My nipples were very sensitive! Just my top rubbing against them was driving me nuts. I did get a lift and there was scar tissue wrapped around the main nerve that provides sensation to my left nipple… Some people lose sensation, and some like me got extra heightened sensation. This began at like the 7 day mark and lasted about three weeks.

 

  • I stunk! I believe this was from all the toxins, but man… be prepared to possibly stink for the first few days. Make sure you have plenty of deoderant 🙂 This was immediately and still from time to time it happens. The detox process takes up to a year- be patient.

 

  • Since October 2014 a lympnode in my armpit would get tender and swollen. At first it was sporadic, happening here and there, lasting for a week or two months. Over the course of these last four years it started showing more of a pattern, always getting tender and swollen two weeks before my period and then going away as soon as I got my period. During the first two weeks after I explanted I had a couple more lympnodes in my armpit get tender. I’ve spoke to quite a few women and they said the same thing – they too had lympnodes react to all the crap that was now floating around in our system post-explant. This is actually a good thing. Lymphnodes are supposed to trap and collect harmful debris that is floating around in our body. I took this as a sign that my body was just doing its job.

 

Something else that I want to mention that happened to me was I broke out in rashes immediately after my explant. This is not common at all and very rare. We still don’t know exactly what caused the red, extremely itchy rashes but if we had to guess it was either a reaction to the anesthesia or my lymphatic system was dumping toxins. All of my rashes were in lymphatic areas (my leg creases behind my knees, upper thigh below my glute, left elbow crease and armpits) from what I understand – but who really knows.

The body is fascinating! 

It’s amazing how quickly your body will begin healing as soon as it’s given the opportunity to stop fighting the two large foreign invaders and start focusing on more important things – like strengthening your immune and endocrine system, balancing your hormones and thyroid and healing your adrenals.

Your body IS on your side, although it may not feel that way pre-explant.

Don’t be worried about what you might look like or “what if none of my symptoms go away?” Regardless of anything, they aren’t supposed to be in our body. They need to come out. Since day one your immune system has been fighting these things.

Show your body some love ♥️

Learn to love and embrace your body at all sizes and shapes it takes on over the decades.

Join my online community! 

Breast Implant Illness Rejuvention And Education By Christina

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