Two years after Julia got breast implants she began experiencing breast implant illness symptoms. What started out as panic attacks and major fatigue quickly progressed to adrenal fatigue, hormonal imbalances and fertility issues.

“They took away my prime years to feel energetic. I feel as if they drained me and I missed out on a lot of events due to me being sick a lot.”

Tell us about your explant journey.

I just had an explant on August 3rd. I made the decision to get them out because of the many symptoms and discomforts that no doctor could give me an answer for. I am on day 3 of healing and feeling really good. 

What type of implants did you have?

Smooth Mentors 550cc’s

What surgeon did you explant with?

Dr. Amy DeRosa

When did you begin to experience symptoms?

Now that I think about it, two years after I implanted. It started with panic attacks and major fatigue. Two miscarriages and loss of period for no reason. My hormone levels were always off and my adrenals were fatigued. Hair loss was huge. 

What symptoms did you have?

Hair loss

Depression

Panic attacks

Weight gain

Imbalanced hormones

Loss of period

Infertility

Chest pain

FATIGUE

Painful contractures & many more. 

How did breast implants impact your life?

They took away my prime years to feel energetic. I feel as if they drained me and I missed out on a lot of events due to me being sick a lot. 

What was surgery like for you?

The surgery went really well. I trusted my surgeon and she did an amazing job. I felt comfortable 

How are you doing now, after explant?

At 3 days I am feeling just slightly sore, but I have good energy and my appetite is back. A bit constipated from the pain killers. I don’t really need the pills and just take Tylenol. I feel so light and my face is back to having color. It’s crazy as I was a skeptic. 

What would you like women who are considering explant to know?

To do it and to not put it off. Don’t wait as long as I did and miss out on things. 

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

Not much. Just to trust your instincts and really do your research on a surgeon when and if you decide to explant. That makes all the difference with the outcome.