Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He has been our most outspoken advocate among plastic surgeons. However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take removing saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a number of women report problems following explant with him. Not good! If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he would remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible. A complete capsulectomy would the minimum acceptable. The drains should be left in place until there is no signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he is prone to do. Rogene Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I must say that I was surprised by the contents of this email that I received this from him today in reply to my having sent him a letter with my medical history: Dear Sherry, I feel sad to read your story but your problems are not typical of those related to silicone leaking and exposure. You might need the implants out as they are old and doing no good. But this may not resolve your health issues Dr M Re: New to Group Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He hasbeen our most outspoken advocate among plasticsurgeons.However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take removingsaline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had anumber of women report problems following explant withhim. Not good!If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting acommittment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he wouldremove the implants en bloc - if at all possible. Acomplete capsulectomy would the minimum acceptable.The drains should be left in place until there is nosignficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he isprone to do.Rogene Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Sherry, IMHO, it's pretty typical of Dr. Melmed. I wish I could say otherwise! Hugs, Rogene --- _00_ <5678@...> wrote: > I must say that I was surprised by the contents of > this email that I received this from him today in > reply to my having sent him a letter with my medical > history: > > Dear Sherry, > > I feel sad to read your story but your problems are > not typical of those related to silicone leaking and > exposure. > > You might need the implants out as they are old and > doing no good. But this may not resolve your health > issues > > Dr M > Re: New to Group > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He > has > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > surgeons. > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take > removing > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a > number of women report problems following explant > with > him. Not good! > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he > would > remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible. > A > complete capsulectomy would the minimum > acceptable. > The drains should be left in place until there is > no > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he > is > prone to do. > > Rogene > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place > of advice given by licensed health care > professionals. Consult your physician or licensed > health care professional before commencing any > medical treatment. > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or the > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts > are, and make your own decisions about how to live a > happy life and how to work for a better world. " - > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954, > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for > access at this link: > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Ah, so I should not then conclude that it's unnecessary to remove my implants.......... Foo. This contradicts what I've read about him on explantation.com Sherry Re: New to Group> > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He> has> been our most outspoken advocate among plastic> surgeons.> > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take> removing> saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a> number of women report problems following explant> with> him. Not good!> > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a> committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he> would> remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible.> A> complete capsulectomy would the minimum> acceptable.> The drains should be left in place until there is> no> signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he> is> prone to do.> > Rogene> > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place> of advice given by licensed health care> professionals. Consult your physician or licensed> health care professional before commencing any> medical treatment. > > "Do not let either the medical authorities or the> politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts> are, and make your own decisions about how to live a> happy life and how to work for a better world." -> Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954,> Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> > See our photos website! Enter "implants" for> access at this link:> http://.shutterfly.com/action/> > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Yeah, I know . . . We can only suggest or recommend. Everyone has to make up their own mind! . . . I've personally sent Dr. Melmed numerous messages regarding the importance of removing ALL the capsule en bloc. He appears to believe that leaving saline capsules behind is OK. He tells me that his pathologist has NEVER found pathogens in the implants he's removed!!!!????? He told me that he removes all the capsule (possible) when the implants are gel. . . I'm not at all sure he does en bloc explants if it's inconvenient. Rogene --- _00_ <5678@...> wrote: > Ah, so I should not then conclude that it's > unnecessary to remove my implants.......... Foo. > > This contradicts what I've read about him on > explantation.com > Sherry > Re: New to Group > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . > He > > has > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > > surgeons. > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take > > removing > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've > had a > > number of women report problems following > explant > > with > > him. Not good! > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that > he > > would > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all > possible. > > A > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum > > acceptable. > > The drains should be left in place until there > is > > no > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as > he > > is > > prone to do. > > > > Rogene > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the > place > > of advice given by licensed health care > > professionals. Consult your physician or > licensed > > health care professional before commencing any > > medical treatment. > > > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or > the > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts > > are, and make your own decisions about how to > live a > > happy life and how to work for a better world. " > - > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner > (1954, > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for > > access at this link: > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. Re: New to Group> > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . .> He> > has> > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic> > surgeons.> > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take> > removing> > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've> had a> > number of women report problems following> explant> > with> > him. Not good!> > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a> > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that> he> > would> > remove the implants en bloc - if at all> possible.> > A> > complete capsulectomy would the minimum> > acceptable.> > The drains should be left in place until there> is> > no> > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as> he> > is> > prone to do.> > > > Rogene> > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the> place> > of advice given by licensed health care> > professionals. Consult your physician or> licensed> > health care professional before commencing any> > medical treatment. > > > > "Do not let either the medical authorities or> the> > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts> > are, and make your own decisions about how to> live a> > happy life and how to work for a better world."> -> > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner> (1954,> > Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> > > > See our photos website! Enter "implants" for> > access at this link:> > http://.shutterfly.com/action/> > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Yeoooooooooooow! . . . Are you planning to remove them ASAP? . . . Chances are you have the older, thicker envelop if they've held together that long! . . . Still, they have to be very fragile by now. Dr. Melmed demonstrated the degradation of the shell before the FDA . . . the new implant barely stretched .. . an older one stretched more . . . but he pulled an old one completely apart - silicone streaming out! . . .. They had to shut down the hearing to clean up the place! How are you feeling? You sound like a medical professional . . . right? It seems that people who take very good care of themselves . . . eat right, live a healthy lifestyle, tolerate implants longer . . . However, thirty years is a very long time to have the same set of implants! I've heard that Dr. Melmed shies away from possibly difficult cases. Do you think he was trying to discourage you? Hugs, Rogene Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 If I had saline implants I would probably not go to Dr. Melmed. I also have emailed him, and conclude what Rogene has here. If I had silicone I wouldn't worry about him as much, because he does know that silicone can be harmful, and he removes the capsules. > > > > > I must say that I was surprised by the contents > > of > > > this email that I received this from him today > > in > > > reply to my having sent him a letter with my > > medical > > > history: > > > > > > Dear Sherry, > > > > > > I feel sad to read your story but your problems > > are > > > not typical of those related to silicone leaking > > and > > > exposure. > > > > > > You might need the implants out as they are old > > and > > > doing no good. But this may not resolve your > > health > > > issues > > > > > > Dr M > > > Re: New to Group > > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . > > He > > > has > > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > > > surgeons. > > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take > > > removing > > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've > > had a > > > number of women report problems following > > explant > > > with > > > him. Not good! > > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that > > he > > > would > > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all > > possible. > > > A > > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum > > > acceptable. > > > The drains should be left in place until there > > is > > > no > > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as > > he > > > is > > > prone to do. > > > > > > Rogene > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the > > place > > > of advice given by licensed health care > > > professionals. Consult your physician or > > licensed > > > health care professional before commencing any > > > medical treatment. > > > > > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or > > the > > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts > > > are, and make your own decisions about how to > > live a > > > happy life and how to work for a better world. " > > - > > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner > > (1954, > > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > > > > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for > > > access at this link: > > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I'm wondering why he didn't feel my history was typical....... thyroiditis, hair loss, skin rash, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, arthritis, Epstein Barr........... Sherry Re: New to Group> > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . .> > He> > > has> > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic> > > surgeons.> > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take> > > removing> > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've> > had a> > > number of women report problems following> > explant> > > with> > > him. Not good!> > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a> > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that> > he> > > would> > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all> > possible.> > > A> > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum> > > acceptable.> > > The drains should be left in place until there> > is> > > no> > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as> > he> > > is> > > prone to do.> > > > > > Rogene> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the> > place> > > of advice given by licensed health care> > > professionals. Consult your physician or> > licensed> > > health care professional before commencing any> > > medical treatment. > > > > > > "Do not let either the medical authorities or> > the> > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts> > > are, and make your own decisions about how to> > live a> > > happy life and how to work for a better world."> > -> > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner> > (1954,> > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> > > > > > See our photos website! Enter "implants" for> > > access at this link:> > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/> > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Perhaps the age of your implants put him off. They are probably very fragile. Rogene --- _00_ <5678@...> wrote: > I'm wondering why he didn't feel my history was > typical....... thyroiditis, hair loss, skin rash, > fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, arthritis, Epstein > Barr........... > Sherry > Re: New to > Group > > > > > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable > surgeon . . . > > > He > > > > has > > > > been our most outspoken advocate among > plastic > > > > surgeons. > > > > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to > take > > > > removing > > > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . > We've > > > had a > > > > number of women report problems > following > > > explant > > > > with > > > > him. Not good! > > > > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest > getting a > > > > committment IN WRITING prior to > surgery that > > > he > > > > would > > > > remove the implants en bloc - if at > all > > > possible. > > > > A > > > > complete capsulectomy would the > minimum > > > > acceptable. > > > > The drains should be left in place > until there > > > is > > > > no > > > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 > hours as > > > he > > > > is > > > > prone to do. > > > > > > > > Rogene > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to > take the > > > place > > > > of advice given by licensed health care > > > > professionals. Consult your physician or > > > licensed > > > > health care professional before > commencing any > > > > medical treatment. > > > > > > > > " Do not let either the medical > authorities or > > > the > > > > politicians mislead you. Find out what > the facts > > > > are, and make your own decisions about > how to > > > live a > > > > happy life and how to work for a better > world. " > > > - > > > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize > Winner > > > (1954, > > > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > === message truncated === Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I considered that... he didn't want to get involved.... Re: New to> Group> > > > > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable> surgeon . . .> > > He> > > > has> > > > been our most outspoken advocate among> plastic> > > > surgeons.> > > > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to> take> > > > removing> > > > saline implant capsules seriously. . .> We've> > > had a> > > > number of women report problems> following> > > explant> > > > with> > > > him. Not good!> > > > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest> getting a> > > > committment IN WRITING prior to> surgery that> > > he> > > > would> > > > remove the implants en bloc - if at> all> > > possible.> > > > A> > > > complete capsulectomy would the> minimum> > > > acceptable.> > > > The drains should be left in place> until there> > > is> > > > no> > > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24> hours as> > > he> > > > is> > > > prone to do.> > > > > > > > Rogene> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to> take the> > > place> > > > of advice given by licensed health care> > > > professionals. Consult your physician or> > > licensed> > > > health care professional before> commencing any> > > > medical treatment. > > > > > > > > "Do not let either the medical> authorities or> > > the> > > > politicians mislead you. Find out what> the facts> > > > are, and make your own decisions about> how to> > > live a> > > > happy life and how to work for a better> world."> > > -> > > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize> Winner> > > (1954,> > > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> === message truncated === Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I wish Dr. M would take saline implants more seriously. What kind of health problems are you having, Sherry? > > I must say that I was surprised by the contents of this email that I received this from him today in reply to my having sent him a letter with my medical history: > > Dear Sherry, > > I feel sad to read your story but your problems are not typical of those related to silicone leaking and exposure. > > You might need the implants out as they are old and doing no good. But this may not resolve your health issues > > Dr M > Re: New to Group > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He has > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > surgeons. > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take removing > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a > number of women report problems following explant with > him. Not good! > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he would > remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible. A > complete capsulectomy would the minimum acceptable. > The drains should be left in place until there is no > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he is > prone to do. > > Rogene > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place of advice given by licensed health care professionals. Consult your physician or licensed health care professional before commencing any medical treatment. > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or the politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts are, and make your own decisions about how to live a happy life and how to work for a better world. " - Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954, Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for access at this link: > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Your symptoms seem very typical. I just don't think Dr. M believes saline implants cause problems. That is why I would recommend anyone who is ill with saline implants see a different surgeon. Dr. Kolb has done quite a bit of study into the problems with saline implants. > > > > > > > I must say that I was surprised by the contents > > > of > > > > this email that I received this from him today > > > in > > > > reply to my having sent him a letter with my > > > medical > > > > history: > > > > > > > > Dear Sherry, > > > > > > > > I feel sad to read your story but your problems > > > are > > > > not typical of those related to silicone leaking > > > and > > > > exposure. > > > > > > > > You might need the implants out as they are old > > > and > > > > doing no good. But this may not resolve your > > > health > > > > issues > > > > > > > > Dr M > > > > Re: New to Group > > > > > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . > > > He > > > > has > > > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > > > > surgeons. > > > > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take > > > > removing > > > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've > > > had a > > > > number of women report problems following > > > explant > > > > with > > > > him. Not good! > > > > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > > > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that > > > he > > > > would > > > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all > > > possible. > > > > A > > > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum > > > > acceptable. > > > > The drains should be left in place until there > > > is > > > > no > > > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as > > > he > > > > is > > > > prone to do. > > > > > > > > Rogene > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the > > > place > > > > of advice given by licensed health care > > > > professionals. Consult your physician or > > > licensed > > > > health care professional before commencing any > > > > medical treatment. > > > > > > > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or > > > the > > > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts > > > > are, and make your own decisions about how to > > > live a > > > > happy life and how to work for a better world. " > > > - > > > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner > > > (1954, > > > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > > > > > > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for > > > > access at this link: > > > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I remain confused. My are silicone and he said my problems were atypical. What am I missing? Re: New to Group> > > > > > > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . .> > > He> > > > has> > > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic> > > > surgeons.> > > > > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take> > > > removing> > > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've> > > had a> > > > number of women report problems following> > > explant> > > > with> > > > him. Not good!> > > > > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a> > > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that> > > he> > > > would> > > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all> > > possible.> > > > A> > > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum> > > > acceptable.> > > > The drains should be left in place until there> > > is> > > > no> > > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as> > > he> > > > is> > > > prone to do.> > > > > > > > Rogene> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the> > > place> > > > of advice given by licensed health care> > > > professionals. Consult your physician or> > > licensed> > > > health care professional before commencing any> > > > medical treatment. > > > > > > > > "Do not let either the medical authorities or> > > the> > > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts> > > > are, and make your own decisions about how to> > > live a> > > > happy life and how to work for a better world."> > > -> > > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner> > > (1954,> > > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> > > > > > > > See our photos website! Enter "implants" for> > > > access at this link:> > > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/> > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Now I'm confused! In your posts, you said they were saline in one, then silicone in another....Are they silicone or saline or both? (Double lumen?) In either case, the end result is the same. Saline implanted women suffer from the same symptoms as women with silicone gel. Your problems are not atypical at all, for implant illness. They are very typical and predictable, and I think removing them as soon as possible is the best advice any of us can give. How long have you been having symptoms of illness? Any abnormal blood test results? Patty_00_ <5678@...> wrote: I remain confused. My are silicone and he said my problems were atypical. What am I missing? Re: New to Group Your symptoms seem very typical. I just don't think Dr. M believes saline implants cause problems. That is why I would recommend anyone who is ill with saline implants see a different surgeon. Dr. Kolb has done quite a bit of study into the problems with saline implants.> >> > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 I don't think I have ever said they were saline. They are silicone and were implanted in either 1973 or 1973. I am aware they are not atypical. It is Dr. Melmed who, today, by email, called them atypical. The only abnormal lab studies were a positive EB and, back in 1980 and prior to treatment, abnormal thyroid profiles. Sx have started in 1995.... Here: I'll cc my letter to Dr. M....: Sherry Dear Dr. Melmed: Four days ago, my fourth dermatologist in a decade sat next to me in her examining room and shared that she was stumped as to the etiology of my ten year skin rash. She exhausted all ideas and suggested that I see , MD, a NYC rheumatologist. I don't know why but it occurred to me then for the very first time that perhaps there's a correlation with my silicone implants, implanted in 1974 by Cinelli, MD. Since that meeting, I have been reading exhaustively. It seems unnecessary to see Dr. . It's clear that I need explantation and not explanation. (cute, yes?) In 1978, I developed trigeminal neuralgia for which I have existed, initially, on heavy dosages of aspirin and, then, NSAIDs. In 1979, I developed a severe tenosynovitis. In 1980, I was diagnosed as hypothyroid. In 1985, when I developed ascending paralysis, I succumbed to a laminectomy after many years of being incapacitated by a back disorder for which I chose, previously, to seek no treatment. Surgery revealed that a fragment of my herniated disk had migrated and penetrated the spinal cord, accounting for the paralysis. I signed myself out of the hospital on the 3rd post-op day and returned to ballet class and have been asymptomatic since. In 1994, I developed infectious mononucleosis and, were my mattress on fire, I'd not have been able to move. Two weeks later, the day I opened my eyes, I foolishly returned to 18-hour work days as the president and CEO of a publicly-traded unique medical services company that I had founded. In 1995, a business associate along with my attorney fled to New Zealand with $51.7m of my personal funds and $118m from my company. I was left fully destitute and went from a $3.3m Boca Raton mansion to living in my car for a year. I was left with the corporate fiduciary obligations that included an IRS debt that, today, approaches $16m. I survive on SSDI (Disability) that covers just half of my mortgage in the NJ condominium that I fortunately did not sell when I moved to Boca Raton. As the IRS doesn't permit me an income, I have survived an unthinkably frugal existence since 1995 by resourcefully performing endless creative tasks to survive financially such as market research participation, recycling items on eBay, etc. I use the skills that allowed me to build and run three successful corporations to survive in the mess. The IRS will be lifting this debt on June 2, 2007 after which time I will be permitted to rebuild a life. I exhaustively pursued the government for eight years spending every cent that was not stolen ($650k, my Keogh plan) in my pursuit but they did nothing to even investigate the white collar crimes - these were pre-Enron days. In 1995, I developed a generalized rash on my entire body that itched ceaselessly and persisted. Over these years, four dermatologists have been unable to determine the origin. Soon after the start of the rash, I developed symptoms of fibromyalgia, Epstein Barr, chronic fatigue, severe bilateral osteoarthritis in my thumbs, hair loss, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and my left breast hardened. Annually for the past two years, I was subjected to literally dozens of mammograms as they checked and rechecked for a suspicious area that, following bi-annual ultrasound and MRI, they determined to be "the edge" of the implant in the hardened left breast. Until four days ago, when I realized that my skin rash must surely be caused by my very old implants, I never considered explantation. Today, after extensive reading, it is obvious that I have no choice but to remove them. After my reading, I am certain that you are the surgeon I most prefer for this procedure. I am 56 years old, 5'1" and 124 pounds. Medicare is my primary insurer and my secondary is Monumental Life, an excellent provider. (Two years ago, my foot was trapped in a sinkhole and I incurred an extensive comminuted, compound leg fracture that required surgery, in-patient rehabilitation and long term care and my insurance coverage was superb.) I have no savings but I have substantial credit because I have never paid a finance card or been late on a mortgage or other payment in my life. I come from a family of physicians (including a Texas-trained cosmetic and facial reconstruction nephew) but am fully estranged from them all following my destitute position in 1995 when they vanished from my life in fear that I might need assistance. I surely know that in late 2007 I will be able to begin to rebuild my finances. I enjoyed a successful professional life that started with nursing but quickly led to an unusually successful entrepreneurial career as a pioneer in the development and marketing of the well-known XXXXXXXXXX instruments, in XXXXXXXXXXXXX and other life-saving devices. I do not have extensive support at home. I am strong and self-sufficient and my biggest concern about travel is the care of my beloved Briards, two dogs, one of whom is an insulin-dependent Diabetic. I can rally people to assist me with my post-op care once I am home in NJ. Attached please find two photos taken a bit more than ten years ago, soon before the onset of symptoms. The side view, the third photo, was taken this week. I had breast tissue prior to implantation and had the smallest size implants and, as such, my surgeon achieved a nice result that I enjoyed until four days ago. The skin rash is not something I can endure now that I have assumed the source and, from my reading, there is every reason to explant now. Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy email and for your reply. Re: New to Group Your symptoms seem very typical. I just don't think Dr. M believes saline implants cause problems. That is why I would recommend anyone who is ill with saline implants see a different surgeon. Dr. Kolb has done quite a bit of study into the problems with saline implants.> >> > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Your symptoms sound pretty typical to me, and many women with silicone implants have had numerous and severe symptoms. I am sorry that so many doctors have given you so much trouble, but that is typical. I do believe that Huang, in Denver, will take Medicare for removal of your implants. Lynda At 09:56 PM 5/3/2006, you wrote: >I don't think I have ever said they were saline. >They are silicone and were implanted in either 1973 or 1973. > >I am aware they are not atypical. It is Dr. >Melmed who, today, by email, called them atypical. > >The only abnormal lab studies were a positive EB >and, back in 1980 and prior to treatment, >abnormal thyroid profiles. Sx have started in >1995.... Here: I'll cc my letter to Dr. M....: > Sherry > >Dear Dr. Melmed: > >Four days ago, my fourth dermatologist in a >decade sat next to me in her examining room and >shared that she was stumped as to the etiology >of my ten year skin rash. She exhausted all >ideas and suggested that I see , MD, >a NYC rheumatologist. I don't know why but it >occurred to me then for the very first time that >perhaps there's a correlation with my silicone >implants, implanted in 1974 by Cinelli, MD. > >Since that meeting, I have been reading >exhaustively. It seems unnecessary to see Dr. >. It's clear that I need explantation and not explanation. (cute, yes?) > >In 1978, I developed trigeminal neuralgia for >which I have existed, initially, on heavy >dosages of aspirin and, then, NSAIDs. In 1979, I >developed a severe tenosynovitis. In 1980, I was >diagnosed as hypothyroid. In 1985, when I >developed ascending paralysis, I succumbed to a >laminectomy after many years of being >incapacitated by a back disorder for which I >chose, previously, to seek no treatment. Surgery >revealed that a fragment of my herniated disk >had migrated and penetrated the spinal cord, >accounting for the paralysis. I signed myself >out of the hospital on the 3rd post-op day and >returned to ballet class and have been >asymptomatic since. In 1994, I developed >infectious mononucleosis and, were my mattress >on fire, I'd not have been able to move. Two >weeks later, the day I opened my eyes, I >foolishly returned to 18-hour work days as the >president and CEO of a publicly-traded unique >medical services company that I had founded. > >In 1995, a business associate along with my >attorney fled to New Zealand with $51.7m of my >personal funds and $118m from my company. I was >left fully destitute and went from a $3.3m Boca >Raton mansion to living in my car for a year. I >was left with the corporate fiduciary >obligations that included an IRS debt that, >today, approaches $16m. I survive on SSDI >(Disability) that covers just half of my >mortgage in the NJ condominium that I >fortunately did not sell when I moved to Boca >Raton. As the IRS doesn't permit me an income, I >have survived an unthinkably frugal existence >since 1995 by resourcefully performing endless >creative tasks to survive financially such as >market research participation, recycling items >on eBay, etc. I use the skills that allowed me >to build and run three successful corporations >to survive in the mess. The IRS will be lifting >this debt on June 2, 2007 after which time I >will be permitted to rebuild a life. I >exhaustively pursued the government for eight >years spending every cent that was not stolen >($650k, my Keogh plan) in my pursuit but they >did nothing to even investigate the white collar >crimes - these were pre-Enron days. > >In 1995, I developed a generalized rash on my >entire body that itched ceaselessly and >persisted. Over these years, four dermatologists >have been unable to determine the origin. Soon >after the start of the rash, I developed >symptoms of fibromyalgia, Epstein Barr, chronic >fatigue, severe bilateral osteoarthritis in my >thumbs, hair loss, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and my left breast hardened. > >Annually for the past two years, I was subjected >to literally dozens of mammograms as they >checked and rechecked for a suspicious area >that, following bi-annual ultrasound and MRI, >they determined to be " the edge " of the implant in the hardened left breast. > >Until four days ago, when I realized that my >skin rash must surely be caused by my very old >implants, I never considered explantation. >Today, after extensive reading, it is obvious >that I have no choice but to remove them. After >my reading, I am certain that you are the >surgeon I most prefer for this procedure. > >I am 56 years old, 5'1 " and 124 pounds. Medicare >is my primary insurer and my secondary is >Monumental Life, an excellent provider. (Two >years ago, my foot was trapped in a sinkhole and >I incurred an extensive comminuted, compound leg >fracture that required surgery, in-patient >rehabilitation and long term care and my >insurance coverage was superb.) I have no >savings but I have substantial credit because I >have never paid a finance card or been late on a >mortgage or other payment in my life. I come >from a family of physicians (including a >Texas-trained cosmetic and facial reconstruction >nephew) but am fully estranged from them all >following my destitute position in 1995 when >they vanished from my life in fear that I might >need assistance. I surely know that in late 2007 >I will be able to begin to rebuild my finances. >I enjoyed a successful professional life that >started with nursing but quickly led to an >unusually successful entrepreneurial career as a >pioneer in the development and marketing of the >well-known XXXXXXXXXX instruments, in >XXXXXXXXXXXXX and other life-saving devices. > >I do not have extensive support at home. I am >strong and self-sufficient and my biggest >concern about travel is the care of my beloved >Briards, two dogs, one of whom is an >insulin-dependent Diabetic. I can rally people >to assist me with my post-op care once I am home in NJ. > >Attached please find two photos taken a bit more >than ten years ago, soon before the onset of >symptoms. The side view, the third photo, was >taken this week. I had breast tissue prior to >implantation and had the smallest size implants >and, as such, my surgeon achieved a nice result >that I enjoyed until four days ago. The skin >rash is not something I can endure now that I >have assumed the source and, from my reading, >there is every reason to explant now. > >Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy email and for your reply. > > Re: New to Group > >Your symptoms seem very typical. I just don't >think Dr. M believes saline implants cause >problems. That is why I would recommend anyone >who is ill with saline implants see a >different surgeon. Dr. Kolb has done quite a >bit of study into the problems with saline >implants. > > > > > > > > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. > > >Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make >PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. > >Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the >place of advice given by licensed health care >professionals. Consult your physician or >licensed health care professional before commencing any medical treatment. > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or >the politicians mislead you. Find out what the >facts are, and make your own decisions about how >to live a happy life and how to work for a >better world. " - Linus ing, two-time Nobel >Prize Winner (1954, Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > >See our photos website! Enter " implants " for access at this link: ><http://.shutterfly.com/action/>http://.shutterfly.co\ m/action/ > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 ---Welcome! Isn't it great to have the support and expertise of these fine ladies? I'm loving it. I too am explanting in July this year. I live in Canada - Caroline, Alberta - and am fortunate to have coverage. I have to have 2 surgeries - one for the explant and one 6 months later for reconstruction. My doctor says that's the best way cause you can see what the breasts will do on their own. I am excited for you - I sure hope we start feeling better soon after explant. I know it can take awhile for some. God Bless You on your Healing Journey, Love 'n Peace, Sunny In , " gigi_h73 " <gigi_h73@...> wrote: > > Hello, > > I have been coming to this site almost daily for about a month now > but have never posted until today. It's comforting to know that I am > not crazy. I have been sick for some time now but never thought that > it may be my implants. I have had my implants for over 5 years now. > My symptoms began about 8 months after the initial implant surgery and > have progressed slowly. A year and a half ago, my blood pressure > increased and now I am on meds. I'm always tired and have achy > joints/muscles, some numbness/weakness, difficulty concentrating, > dizziness. migraines (to name a few). I am very tired of feeling > this way. I want my life back. > > I'm seeing an internist. My initial tests have all come back > negative. I had more tests done and will review the results with him > next week. I have some vaginal discomfort but he said that he said > that it didnt look like a yeast infection and told me to use > cortisone on the outside for the irritation. I've had this off and > on for months. > > I'm a SAHM and have three children and feel so bad that I am not able > to be with them as much as I use to. I am always very tired. I'm in > my early 30's and have always been active and healthy. > > I have scheduled my explantation surgery with Dr. M in July. I have > also spoken with Dr. Kolb ( she thinks it may be mold). Most of my > symptoms are on the left side of my body. Even the vaginal > irritation...wierd huh??? However, my insurance will not cover the > explant and we can not afford the extra 4-5K Dr. Kolb will cost. I > have read on this site that Dr. M has left some part of the capsule > in so this concerns me as well. He told me in an email that any left > over thin capsules would dissipate and are gone in a year. Has > anyone had this experience? My implants are very soft and do not > feel hard at all. Will I find relief even if some of the capsule is > left in? Does it depend on what is found...chemicals or mold? > Really dont know how to go about this.... > > Also, what can I do now to help me start to detox prior to the > surgery? Is it too soon to start and how long will I have to detox? > I am trying to be positive and looking forward to feeling better than > I am now. > > Thank you for your thoughts and help. And if possible, a little > prayer to give me the strength to be strong and fight this. I will > not go down without a fight, I'm willing to fight for my health. > > Sorry for the information overload... > > Thanks again, > Gigi > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 3, 2006 Report Share Posted May 3, 2006 Sherry, If you scroll down through to the last message in the thread on the post, you'll see: > >> > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 Probably is you sent the same e-mail to Dr. Feng or Kolb, they'd agree it was your implants - because if I recall, your symptoms are just like mine and many others here. Sis > > > I must say that I was surprised by the contents of > > this email that I received this from him today in > > reply to my having sent him a letter with my medical > > history: > > > > Dear Sherry, > > > > I feel sad to read your story but your problems are > > not typical of those related to silicone leaking and > > exposure. > > > > You might need the implants out as they are old and > > doing no good. But this may not resolve your health > > issues > > > > Dr M > > Re: New to Group > > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He > > has > > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic > > surgeons. > > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take > > removing > > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a > > number of women report problems following explant > > with > > him. Not good! > > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a > > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he > > would > > remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible. > > A > > complete capsulectomy would the minimum > > acceptable. > > The drains should be left in place until there is > > no > > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he > > is > > prone to do. > > > > Rogene > > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place > > of advice given by licensed health care > > professionals. Consult your physician or licensed > > health care professional before commencing any > > medical treatment. > > > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or the > > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts > > are, and make your own decisions about how to live a > > happy life and how to work for a better world. " - > > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954, > > Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > > > > See our photos website! Enter " implants " for > > access at this link: > > http://.shutterfly.com/action/ > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 Thank you. I suppose I need to continue my research and avoid writing further to any surgeons..... Sherry Re: New to Group> > > > > > Dr. Melmed is a very personable surgeon . . . He> > has> > been our most outspoken advocate among plastic> > surgeons.> > > > However, Dr. Melmed doesn't appear to take> > removing> > saline implant capsules seriously. . . We've had a> > number of women report problems following explant> > with> > him. Not good!> > > > If anyone goes with him, I'd suggest getting a> > committment IN WRITING prior to surgery that he> > would> > remove the implants en bloc - if at all possible.> > A> > complete capsulectomy would the minimum> > acceptable.> > The drains should be left in place until there is> > no> > signficant drainage . . . Not just 24 hours as he> > is> > prone to do.> > > > Rogene> > > > > > > > > > Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the place> > of advice given by licensed health care> > professionals. Consult your physician or licensed> > health care professional before commencing any> > medical treatment. > > > > "Do not let either the medical authorities or the> > politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts> > are, and make your own decisions about how to live a> > happy life and how to work for a better world." -> > Linus ing, two-time Nobel Prize Winner (1954,> > Chemistry; 1963, Peace)> > > > See our photos website! Enter "implants" for> > access at this link:> > http://.shutterfly.com/action/> > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 Thank you very much. Please accept my apology. Of course, there were no saline implants in 1973. Nonetheless, I surely misspoke. Sherry Re: Re: New to Group Sherry, If you scroll down through to the last message in the thread on the post, you'll see: > >> > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 Thank you Sunny, for your warm welcome. Yes, I do feel hopeful and I am glad that I have found this site as well. Gigi > > > > Hello, > > > > I have been coming to this site almost daily for about a month now > > but have never posted until today. It's comforting to know that I > am > > not crazy. I have been sick for some time now but never thought > that > > it may be my implants. I have had my implants for over 5 years > now. > > My symptoms began about 8 months after the initial implant surgery > and > > have progressed slowly. A year and a half ago, my blood pressure > > increased and now I am on meds. I'm always tired and have achy > > joints/muscles, some numbness/weakness, difficulty concentrating, > > dizziness. migraines (to name a few). I am very tired of feeling > > this way. I want my life back. > > > > I'm seeing an internist. My initial tests have all come back > > negative. I had more tests done and will review the results with > him > > next week. I have some vaginal discomfort but he said that he said > > that it didnt look like a yeast infection and told me to use > > cortisone on the outside for the irritation. I've had this off and > > on for months. > > > > I'm a SAHM and have three children and feel so bad that I am not > able > > to be with them as much as I use to. I am always very tired. I'm > in > > my early 30's and have always been active and healthy. > > > > I have scheduled my explantation surgery with Dr. M in July. I > have > > also spoken with Dr. Kolb ( she thinks it may be mold). Most of my > > symptoms are on the left side of my body. Even the vaginal > > irritation...wierd huh??? However, my insurance will not cover the > > explant and we can not afford the extra 4-5K Dr. Kolb will cost. I > > have read on this site that Dr. M has left some part of the capsule > > in so this concerns me as well. He told me in an email that any > left > > over thin capsules would dissipate and are gone in a year. Has > > anyone had this experience? My implants are very soft and do not > > feel hard at all. Will I find relief even if some of the capsule > is > > left in? Does it depend on what is found...chemicals or mold? > > Really dont know how to go about this.... > > > > Also, what can I do now to help me start to detox prior to the > > surgery? Is it too soon to start and how long will I have to > detox? > > I am trying to be positive and looking forward to feeling better > than > > I am now. > > > > Thank you for your thoughts and help. And if possible, a little > > prayer to give me the strength to be strong and fight this. I will > > not go down without a fight, I'm willing to fight for my health. > > > > Sorry for the information overload... > > > > Thanks again, > > Gigi > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 Thank you Sunny, for your warm welcome. Yes, I do feel hopeful and I am glad that I have found this site as well. Gigi > > > > Hello, > > > > I have been coming to this site almost daily for about a month now > > but have never posted until today. It's comforting to know that I > am > > not crazy. I have been sick for some time now but never thought > that > > it may be my implants. I have had my implants for over 5 years > now. > > My symptoms began about 8 months after the initial implant surgery > and > > have progressed slowly. A year and a half ago, my blood pressure > > increased and now I am on meds. I'm always tired and have achy > > joints/muscles, some numbness/weakness, difficulty concentrating, > > dizziness. migraines (to name a few). I am very tired of feeling > > this way. I want my life back. > > > > I'm seeing an internist. My initial tests have all come back > > negative. I had more tests done and will review the results with > him > > next week. I have some vaginal discomfort but he said that he said > > that it didnt look like a yeast infection and told me to use > > cortisone on the outside for the irritation. I've had this off and > > on for months. > > > > I'm a SAHM and have three children and feel so bad that I am not > able > > to be with them as much as I use to. I am always very tired. I'm > in > > my early 30's and have always been active and healthy. > > > > I have scheduled my explantation surgery with Dr. M in July. I > have > > also spoken with Dr. Kolb ( she thinks it may be mold). Most of my > > symptoms are on the left side of my body. Even the vaginal > > irritation...wierd huh??? However, my insurance will not cover the > > explant and we can not afford the extra 4-5K Dr. Kolb will cost. I > > have read on this site that Dr. M has left some part of the capsule > > in so this concerns me as well. He told me in an email that any > left > > over thin capsules would dissipate and are gone in a year. Has > > anyone had this experience? My implants are very soft and do not > > feel hard at all. Will I find relief even if some of the capsule > is > > left in? Does it depend on what is found...chemicals or mold? > > Really dont know how to go about this.... > > > > Also, what can I do now to help me start to detox prior to the > > surgery? Is it too soon to start and how long will I have to > detox? > > I am trying to be positive and looking forward to feeling better > than > > I am now. > > > > Thank you for your thoughts and help. And if possible, a little > > prayer to give me the strength to be strong and fight this. I will > > not go down without a fight, I'm willing to fight for my health. > > > > Sorry for the information overload... > > > > Thanks again, > > Gigi > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 4, 2006 Report Share Posted May 4, 2006 There were some saline implants early in the 70's. Heyer-Schulte, I think. Lynda At 04:50 AM 5/4/2006, you wrote: >Thank you very much. Please accept my apology. > >Of course, there were no saline implants in >1973. Nonetheless, I surely misspoke. > Sherry > Re: Re: New to Group > >Sherry, >If you scroll down through to the last message >in the thread on the post, you'll see: > > > > > > > My implants are saline and have been in place since 1973 or 1974. > > >Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make >PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. > >Opinions expressed are NOT meant to take the >place of advice given by licensed health care >professionals. Consult your physician or >licensed health care professional before commencing any medical treatment. > > " Do not let either the medical authorities or >the politicians mislead you. Find out what the >facts are, and make your own decisions about how >to live a happy life and how to work for a >better world. " - Linus ing, two-time Nobel >Prize Winner (1954, Chemistry; 1963, Peace) > >See our photos website! Enter " implants " for access at this link: ><http://.shutterfly.com/action/>http://.shutterfly.co\ m/action/ > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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