Exchange City
Comments
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TNLady - I have read the same thing about having the implants checked to make sure there are no leaks, etc. I will definitely ask about that once I have had my exchange. Right now I am looking at having my exchange in June 2010. Thanks for responding.
Karen
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CS, Interesting article. So what I got from that is that fat grafting is okay but that it must be done correctly.
Victorious (love the name!) What a story! I hope this round works for you. We're not as close as you and Val but I have a 29" rib cage and am 5'5" and my implants are 475 mentor high profile. My pictures are posted if you want to see them or you can pm your email to me and I'll send you pictures. I'm wearing a 32D now but I look more like a B/C, definitely not coconuts! Not sure if all that will help you but there it is.
bs, I wouldn't think you could gain a lot of feeling back, but I don't think it's too late to get some back. I work with stroke patients and have been able to help them gain some sensation in their faces up to six years post. Gentle massage, vibration (with a massager), different textures (soft brush, soft cloth, exfoliating cloth etc), warm and cool (not hot or cold cuz you're numb) and gentle tapping are all good tools. Start at the edges of where you have sensation and work your way in.
Val, Thanks, I am using the bra requirements you told me except that I'm not wearing one at night and I have better luck with padded bras (bummer cuz lace is prettier). I suppose it does make sense that the tightness will inhibit fluff for awhile but I agree the pocket is the priority for now. Do you know why he requires non padded, is that a biggie?
Julie
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BTW, My BS has me scheduled for a 6 month MRI follow up this month, I called and asked if it was necessary and was told yes. I guess it all depends on your doc. NOT looking forward to waiting for results yet again!
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Julie - I just went out and bought the Chic Shaper... (and the book Sarah's Key) Have you shown it (chic shaper) to your PS? I have 2 more weeks of no under-wire but then can wear anything I want. I tried it on with a sports bra and wonder if I had it in the right place...
Any suggestions on it? Did anyone else get one? Does anyone wear it regularly?
I kind of think, if I bring it in to show my PS, he is going to laugh at me... I already told him I woke up flat chested when he installed my 800cc gels last week.
Kristen - sorry you are still uncomfortable. I posted my 1 week post-op pict... no bruising but not much difference yet.
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Julie - I'm not completely sure - never directly asked - but I think he requires unlined, unpadded because he's very concerned about the interior edge of the bra, that it doesn't have anything that could push the implants apart. Since most - not some of the new laser-cut ones, I guess - have a more pronounced "edge" on the interior cups, that may be why. I'll try to ask when I see him in another week.
musiclovermom - not sure if you read Whippetmom's post about the chic-shaper.....try to find it back a couple weeks.....quite humorous......she mentions renaissance fairs.....think "wench"......
btw...wondering if you play an instrument? (from your screenname).....in my former life, I was a music therapist..... 0 -
Hey Val - the only thing I can play is the radio!
I did see Deborah's post a while back - made me laugh...
Julie had a pict and wondered if she was really wearing it?
Does anyone really wear it?
I can always return it... I am the queen of returning products - just keep the tags and receipt!
Kimberly
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Kimberly - nothin' wrong with the radio! Returning....that's why I love Target - you don't even need your receipt!
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cs7777: Thank you for posting that link re: lipofilling. The article refers to techniques developed by Sydney Coleman, M.D. - a New York plastic surgeon. Very good article.0
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funny how different we all are..... I never return anything.... I am too afraid they will yell at me or ask me why I bought something I didn't want... As a result, I have donated lots of items with the tags still attached!!
Allie
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Kimberly....Wench says it all! I could have carried around a serving platter wearing that Chic Shaper.
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Re: returning stuff to stores. One year I returned too many items to Target without receipts and I was officially banned from returning anything for an entire year....! Pretty mortifying to be tagged as an unreliable shopper and my DH gave me no end of grief. I love Target's new no-receipt policy, needless to say.
So the Warners bra was killing me and I decided to go to Nordstrom to be fitted. I measure 32" (you were right, Val), but I told her I needed a 34. So my size right now is 34D and it looks nice. I hope it doesn't go down too much. (implants: Allergan 15 with 397 ccs)
I bought two comfy underwire bras that have a nice stretch along the top edge:
Natori - traditional: lace bodydbl full fit
Chantelle - Rive gauched padded bra (it's not really padded, though)
The price tag was steep, but I learned that my insurance (HealthNet) will chip in $28 per bra for up to three bras per year! I will get a script from my doctor next week, and Nordstrom will fill out the insurance forms. Ladies, check your insurance policies - you might have coverage for the bras you need to buy.
Am feeling better, my friend got through surgery just fine, and my boy is coming home from college for the weekend. Thanks again for all the bra tips--
Kristen
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Hi Sisters--
I could use some help. My 50th Birthday is coming up in April and I'm throwing a "Celebration of Life" party for all of the people who took such good care of the boys and I during the last 18 months. I have friends who are coming to play music, the cake will be a "Thank you" cake, and I want to give everyone something. I was thinking about poetry books, I could write something to each person (I will need about 60 books), and I need some suggestions on books. I've come to realize the poetry I read is pretty...dark. I mentioned this on FB, but I would love some suggestions that celebrate life, the earth, love, you know the opposite of all the Sylvia Plath I have...:-) Sorry, I love her work!
Maybe you should PM me with your ideas unless others are interested in seeing what comes up.
I hope everyone is doing well.
Hugs--Karen
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I agree with Nedeza. I just bought that bra with the front zipper from Penny's. Best of all, it was on sale - 50% off. Yippee! Even though I have yet to have my surgery, I know this bra will work. I'm a sports bra type anyway (even though lacy ones have their place too). I've been in a kind of funk lately, so buying the bra lifted my spirits. Geez, I can't decide if that's good or bad. I should add that I bought some jewelry too
. Have a good one. Chris 0 -
cs777: Thanks for the article on lipofilling.
Karen: How generous that you are having a party for the people who helped you. 60 people, wow, that's a lot of people to have in your house at one time. You must have a huge house. You have a huge heart, I can tell.
Brenda
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MARCH 18TH WOO HOO FOR MY EXCHANGE...SO SO HAPPY. I truly thought the day would never come. I have had so so many setbacks with infections, lost an expander, my skin nearly melted from the skin glue and disolving stitches, they had to use the old fashioned kind so I have the cute little dots. I give praise to God for seeing me through this even when I didn't believe it would ever happen, and when I was mad that I was dealt this hand, and when I refused to pray because I felt it wouldn't do any good. I want to publicly thank you Jesus for your grace!!
And thanks to this forum, all the loving ladies that have posted and encouraged me personally or just by encouraging someone else and allowing me to read that encouragement.
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Bellz - Just having a date is so exciting! I had my exchange a little over a week ago, and the TE's seem like forever ago. I keep thinking it must be months but I looked at the calendar and it's 9 days. I am enjoying waking up every morning and feeling normal. The best thing about these gels is that I don't feel them. So glad you can rely on your faith once again!
reeltchr - I love buying bras! I have not seemed to find any in the zip front yet. The only zip front ones I have been finding are on the clearance rack and seem to be huge - like 48 GG. Each store I have been into has different selections.
JC Penny has several locations around Richmond and none of them have the same stock or displays. Nordstroms was a disaster - very small selection compared to Dillards or Macys. I had some luck yesterday at a Peebles, and bought 2 sports bras - not zip front but neither needs to go over my head. One was front hooks and the other was back hooks.
Glad you bought some jewelry too! I took all of mine off for surgery and still have forgotten to put my earrings back in. I get out someplace and remember, but when I get home again, I forget to put them on. Probably will be months before I remember to do it. Good excuse to treat my self at the jewelry store don't you think? I deserve new earrings...
Happy Saturday Ladies!
Kimberly
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reeltchr: Gotta love retail therapy! I just went to a "jewelry party" this week at a friends house. It was so nice to get together with friends and I bought some beautiful silver jewelry
too! I haven't bought jewelry for my self in quite a while. My surgery will be coming up right after yours and I'm starting to get excited/anxious. My husband will be arriving home today from 7 weeks of Air Force Reserves training. He has been in San Antonio, TX since Jan 6. My daughter and I are so excited. We have really missed him alot. He'll only be home for a week then he's off to Little Rock, AR until July. I can totally understand being in a funk---between bc and all that it brings and my husband being away, I have had several down days. BETTER DAYS ARE AHEAD!!!!!TCK
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TCK - Wish you were closer to come have lunch with a bunch in Fairfax tomorrow! That would get you out of a funk! 2010 is going to be so much better than 2009! It has already started off GREAT!0
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Jewelry party for me today! It's benefitting the golden retriever rescue that I volunteer for.Retail therapy is great, isn't it?
Karen, I also wanted to throw a thank you party. But I had wanted to do it right after radiation and found that I was too pooped to even think about it. Maybe this summer. Here in Texas, outdoor BBQs are the way to go.
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Texas - I have a golden retriever! She is a dirt ball - rolls in the mud! LOL I love her!
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LOL, I thought the wench effect from the chic shaper was funny, but Kristin!! Banned from Target! ROTFL!
Victorious and Belz, you have been thru so much, hoping like Kimberly says this year is going to get better for all of us! Moore Tennis, reeltchr, hannahbear, pink ribbon - best thoughts to each of you!
Karen how nice to throw a party, and to have 60 people that have helped you! You are so sweet to want to give them gifts, I would think seeing you happy and celebrating life at your own party would be treasure enough to each of them!
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Hello dear ladies - Sending best wishes to each you recovering from procedures, and big high-fives for all those scheduled.
Well, I am doing much better mentally, since Deborah reached out and talked some sense into me
I was a crying mess most of last week since my exchange, and looking back, was blaming my PS for all of the other things on my mind (like how surgery was scheduled for the same day as my wedding anniversary, worry about surgery, worry about another recovery, worry about my kids, and on and on) - and the pain meds don't allow me to sleep well, so throw some sleep deprivation in the mix, and I just broke down. I would like to thank Deborah publicly for your time, effort, knowledge, compassion, and your huge heart - you are truly a gift from heaven, and you have my unending gratitude.On the upside for those of you awaiting exchange, you will be SO VERY happy with implants instead of te's - there really is no comparison. I can't even feel the implants in my chest. So hang in there with the te's, there are better days ahead.
{{Bellz}} Congrats on your date!! Good news!
Reeltchr - love your photo - where did you get a pink chair?
KEW - just an idea that came to mind - what about those small, square poetry books that are usually by the checkout counters at big bookstores? I have a couple of them, Quotable Women (Running Press) - nice little gifts that won't break the bank. Maybe you could ask about a quantity discount? Or maybe journals for each person, with your own poetry written in on the first page? Your party sounds so wonderful, hope you have a great time.
Hannahbearsmom - I doubt you'll be checking in here if your hubby gets home today
, but just wanted to wish you all the best, and safe travels.Musiclovermom - just have to say that I love your attitude. I am inspired and uplifted every time I read your posts!!
Erika09 - thank you also for your kind words. Please don't be shy about asking questions (we're in the same boat!) these women are the most knowledgeable around, and a wonderful resource.
{{Everyone}} thanks for being here and sharing your stories. All the best, xo, E
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Brenda--Small house less than 1400 sq ft, was able to rent a nearby rec hall for 50.00.
Grakenmom--I like that idea very much, thank you!
Texas--I have been too tired and back into life too, so I figured this birthday was the best time to do it.
I hope everyone is healing well...think summer...right around the corner...
Hugs--Karen
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Hey Grackenmom! So glad you have turned a corner! You sound better too! Deborah ROCKS!
I am amazed at how wonderful these gels feel BECAUSE they don't feel! OMG - I LOVE THEM!
For all you wenches out there - I am wearing the Chic Shaper today. I feel like a complete fool walking around with it on, but I am trying it. I have to say that it holds my sides in nicely and my arms don't bump my boobs. I was at the grocery store this morning and saw the St. Paulie beer girl and burst out laughing!
Erika09 - haven't seen you post in forever! How are you?
Kimberly
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Hi Kimberly - You're always an inspiration and I'm happy you're so enjoying your new girls.
I'm hanging in here waiting for my ooph surgery on March 8th. I'm feeling down and stress has hit me big time! I'm trying to occupy myself but this ovaries deal is making me so scared and I forgot all about my breasts/TE's and I'm 24/7 in my ovaries. The waiting time and the unknown is agonizing.
Grakenmom - Thank you! I'm glad you're feeling better.
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Erika, do you need a good book to distract you? The following books got me through the past couple of months:
The Help (loved this and couldn't put it down)
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (scary page-turner)
Olive Kitteridge (fascinating character study)
Have you told your doc about your stress? He might recommend valium or something else to help you feel better. Sending warm wishes,
Kristen
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YAY! Exchange was done Monday 2/22, I had very little pain no drains no stiches visible on outside my PS rocks! My right side expander was way to high and he was able to correct that. Today I feel really good. I had switched PS because my first one made a big stink about getting rads. During my changeout my current PS told me that the expanders concaved my rib cage yikes. Has any one else had this happen? Will they stay that way or will they spring back, Just wondering what it means for me. Now I know what was causing all my discomfort with the expanders.
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Hi Kristen - Thank you for the books suggestion. I'm going to look them up at the library. I sure need some distraction! Right now I'm reading Life of Pi, but will also ask for some meds next week. At this point, anything to calm me down a bit. A friend told me that I may already be having menopausal symptoms in addition to all the medical stress...
Have a nice weekend!
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KEW: How about putting together a compilation of famous quotations about love and friendship? I used to have this fabulous famous quotations book someone gave me, filled with topics on love, friendship, hope, comfort....and I referred to it often to send a little something to someone in need. Wish I could remember the name of that book. This would be something uplifting....
There are a lot of links on the internet....here is one....
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Adnerb, Julie-a little behind in response, but thanks for you thoughts on getting upper pole fullness and adequate size. I had simple mast., actually a double mast. a year apart, so I have all my chest muscle. I have had rads on one side so I didn't know if that would prevent upper pole fullness when exchanged. I think I'd like to end up looking like a small C in clothes. I think projection and some upper pole fullness matters more to me than overall size. What I am wondering now if I go to 800cc TEs and then get 550-600cc implant will that mean I get a lot of drape? Maybe I should not expand as far and then the implant will be fuller?
Regarding the fat graft issue, I had my mast/LD flap post op appt. in December My bc surgeon and ps were both there. When I pointed to a little indented place near my armpit, my ps said, "we can just put some fat there later". My bc surgeon spoke up to him and said, "You know how those fat grafts can turn into little lumps, and then we'll all freak out!" Since that was a down the road discussion/decision, I didn't pursue it further that day.
Kristen We are so on the same page, pun intended, in terms of books. I absolutely loved The Help, am halfway through Olive Kitteridge and just order an audio book of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo!
Best to All, Spring is on the way! deekaay
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