I've had breast implants for years. While they certainly make me feel confident and curvy, I always knew implants don't last forever. They eventually need to be replaced, whether from an implant leaking or a change of heart about the size you chose. Since it had been 15 years since my breast implant surgery, I was ready for a fresh start.
Recently, I decided to have my breast implants exchanged. When I met Dr. Horn to discuss my options, I wasn't sure what to expect. Ultimately, I went forward with my surgery and couldn't be happier with my result.
I hope my experience helps shed light on the process for other women considering breast implant removal and replacement. While my story has some twists and turns, it all worked out in the end, and my breasts look better than ever.
Why I Decided to Remove my Breast Implants
I've had breast implants for a long time. I underwent breast augmentation twice in Europe. Now, I was living in the United States. It had been 15 years since my last operation. My breast implants had aged, and I was seriously thinking about getting my old implants switched out for new ones.
Finding a breast implant removal surgeon I could trust took time
I am no stranger to breast surgery, so I knew what I was looking for in a surgeon. I'd had two breast augmentations in the past. The first took place in London, and my second procedure was in Germany. Those experiences taught me the importance of choosing a surgeon that is both competent and personable.
I searched the internet for surgeons specializing in breast implants and breast implant removal. Then, after doing some research, I scheduled an appointment with a credible surgeon who had mind-blowing before-and-after photos.
My first consultation didn’t go as well as had I hoped
I booked my first consultation with the surgeon I had found online. He took a down payment for the operation straight away. While I was on board with getting my implants removed, I didn’t end up going through with the surgery since my husband's job required us to move.
I found out my down payment was non-refundable, which was disappointing, to say the least. Honestly, I had second thoughts about working with that particular surgeon anyway. We just didn’t click in person.
I was let down because I was ready to get my implants taken out. Plus, my husband and I didn’t have to move after all. I had parted ways with a few hundred dollars essentially for no reason. But life goes on.
My initial consultation with Dr. Horn made me feel at ease
At this point, I wanted a second opinion. My goal was to find a breast implant removal surgeon I could trust. I didn't have anyone to recommend a surgeon since I had only been living in the U.S. for three years. I was on my own.
I did tons of online research and found Dr. Michael Horn in the Google search results. I clicked around his website and read his about page. He came across as knowledgeable and genuine, so I decided to book my second consultation with him.
I was nervous when I arrived, but that all changed once I stepped inside his office. Dr. Horn's staff was incredible. They were patient, kind, and willing to listen. As far as first impressions go, I couldn't have asked for more.
When I sat down with Dr. Horn, I found him to be an excellent listener. He was also very honest with me. I could tell he had a lot of experience and had my best interests at heart.
After speaking about my concerns and past surgical history, we decided that breast implant exchange was my best option. He answered all my questions and explained the implant removal process in detail. When I left his office, I knew I had found my surgeon.
The weeks leading up to my surgery were surprisingly easy
I decided to book my operation with Dr. Horn. I called the office to schedule my surgery date. Now, all I had to do was sit back and wait for the big day to arrive.
New questions popped up in my mind all the time. His office has a user-friendly app called Klara that they use for patient communications. Using the app, I wrote messages to the nurse to ask any questions that came up in the days and weeks before my surgery. They usually replied soon after I hit send, which put my mind at ease. I was so nervous as my surgery date approached, I probably also called the office 60 or 70 times, and they were never rude or unkind.
The Klara app was super intuitive. It sent automatic reminders for all my pre-surgery appointments and let me know what I needed to do to prepare. I could even download my breast imaging results on the app. I love that kind of transparency.
My Breast Implant Removal Surgery
I was excited to get my breast implants removed, but I had to cancel my operation due to family reasons. I was scared they might be upset or ask for more money. However, Dr. Horn's staff were nothing but kind and accommodating. They simply re-booked my surgery for another date that worked for me. I was genuinely impressed.
I arrived bright and early on the morning of my surgery. Dr. Horn met with me to go over any last-minute questions. He gave me plenty of reassurance since I was a bit nervous, which helped me relax.
The operation went well. I was waking up in the recovery room before I knew it. I remember feeling groggy. Dr. Horn came by to make sure I was feeling okay. I stayed in the recovery area for observation until I felt well enough to go home.
The Recovery Process
The next day, I returned to his office to be fitted for a sports bra. Dr. Horn also removed my bandages and checked to ensure everything looked okay. I had some discomfort, as he explained I would. The medications Dr. Horn prescribed helped take the edge off. He also gave me a topical gel to help the surgical incisions heal.
I saw Dr. Horn regularly so he could make sure I was healing as expected. He was patient and reassuring throughout the process. It was also nice that I could get in touch with his office via the Klara app or by phone whenever I had a question or needed support after my surgery. That made my recovery experience infinitely easier.
My Breast Implant Removal Results
I had some swelling and bruising initially. But my breasts looked so much better once they healed. It's been almost six months now, and my breasts look beautiful. I am completely content and happy, and I can only tell you what a great experience it has been to work with Dr. Horn and his wonderful team.
If I ever do any other body sculpting or body improvement in the future, I will go to Dr. Horn. I was extremely impressed by his expertise, professionalism, and honesty.
I highly recommend Dr. Horn to anyone looking for a breast implant removal surgeon, especially if you are picky like me and want someone you can trust. He and his staff made sure my experience was nothing short of amazing from start to finish.
