Guest guest Posted July 17, 2007 Report Share Posted July 17, 2007 Dawn, the photo of you and your husband is absolutely beautiful. He is a very lucky man! Wishing you all the best. The box of clothes I sent via UPS should be there tomorrow (Wednesday). Best of luck to you. The kids look great! C Tampa From: " Dawn " <jellybean2141973@...> Reply- Subject: From Dawn Date: Tue, 17 Jul 2007 15:01:00 -0000 I have posted a folder with pictures of the house as well as myself so you know whom you are talking to and whom you are helping out! Thank each and everyone of you and God Bless! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 25, 2009 Report Share Posted July 25, 2009 Dawn, The explanting surgeon you use should be able to tell you what to expect as far as removal and the need for a lift goes. But here are my thoughts...if you have not had children yet, and you are young, your skin will have a certain amount of elasticity to it and will retract back to its former shape after the implants are removed. The only thing that would make a difference is if you got stretch marks with the implants. If you did, then there would be extra skin there that will not retract, and a lift may be necessary. But if you did not get stretch marks, and your skin has good turgor, you should be able to remove those implants and not have to have a lift. In fact, I knew a girl who was a dancer (stripper) who got sick from her implants, and removed them without a lift. She was very small breasted without implants, and her skin went right back to the way it was before, and she was able to go back to dancing topless after the implant removal...no glaring scars on her breasts. Now if there is any testimony about the ability of the breasts to revert back to their former shape, there is one!! I believe she had removal through the nipple (areola) which only makes sense. Proper removal requires that you have a total capsulectomy, where the implants and the scar tissue that forms around the implants are removed from the breast. You do not want any residual components from the breast implant experience left in your body. That will give you the best chance at getting better. This is the vital key to finding the right explanting surgeon. They MUST know how to do a proper en bloc removal (usually reserved for silicone gel implants) or at the very least explant with total capsulectomy. Keep us posted...we have tons of help available for your questions. We hope you find the best surgeon for your explant! Patty > > This is ALL such great information and resource. I will certainly be prepared when I see the endocrinologist. I have always been active and in shape and this " medical " issue has about pushed me over the edge. I swear if I hear a doctor say to me one more time that I LOOK healthy, I will scream. I am 34 and my body is trying to compensate but eventually even that wont be enough. I can barely get out of bed without my beta blocker medication. It is the only thing that is giving me a little relief from my symptoms. > > Does anyone out there have any suggestions specifically on tests to be run? > > My plan is to explant the entire implant and not replace. I was actually a good B size before surgery so most of my natural breast tissue is on the top portion of my implant. As far as size goes, I want to say it was around 275cc. Of course that sounds close to a C but as I said, I had a decent amount of tissue pre-op. So instead, I measure a 32D (I am 5'3'' and 115lbs and extremely small framed). I am very self conscious about it and have a meltdowns occasionally in my closet as I get ready for work. I only wanted to fill my clothes out better and I feel as if I am just two breasts walking around now. I told my surgeon that after the procedure and he assured me that NOBODY ever came back and complained they were too big. Well, guess what, I AM! Honestly, I will be happy with my Bs back. I have not had children so I am hoping that maybe my original size and shape will return. I know an exam is necessary to know for sure but at my age, should I get a lift too? Thoughts on that? > > Again, ALL of you are so amazing. Of course, if any of you know someone in Nashville that you would recommend, that would be great. I have found the name of two doctors who advertise explants along with their other services. Both trained at Vanderbilt for their plastics fellowship. > > > Have a great weekend! > Dawn > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 26, 2009 Report Share Posted July 26, 2009 Hey Dawn, There are a large number of possible tests that can be run. I am not sure I can name them all! You can get tested for autoimmunity...there are several markers for that, such a Rheumatoid factor, and ANA (anti-nuclear) antibodies, SED rate, and complement markers, such as C3 and C4. I would suggest having the TSH, Free T3, Free T4, anti-TPO antibodies, and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies test. That covers the thyroid. Many women sick from implants have thyroid dysfunction. You can have liver function tests...this would be a good idea, and part of a general complete blood panel. For heavy metals, you would do a urine test using a chelating agent to see what you are dumping. You should have testing for your general endocrine system, but reproductive hormones should not be overlooked. Adrenal testing is often complex and not always interpreted correctly, but it can be done with either blood or saliva. Saliva testing is generally not regarded as very accurate, but there are doctors who would argue that point. Have you had any of this testing so far? Patty > > This is ALL such great information and resource. I will certainly be prepared when I see the endocrinologist. I have always been active and in shape and this " medical " issue has about pushed me over the edge. I swear if I hear a doctor say to me one more time that I LOOK healthy, I will scream. I am 34 and my body is trying to compensate but eventually even that wont be enough. I can barely get out of bed without my beta blocker medication. It is the only thing that is giving me a little relief from my symptoms. > > Does anyone out there have any suggestions specifically on tests to be run? > > My plan is to explant the entire implant and not replace. I was actually a good B size before surgery so most of my natural breast tissue is on the top portion of my implant. As far as size goes, I want to say it was around 275cc. Of course that sounds close to a C but as I said, I had a decent amount of tissue pre-op. So instead, I measure a 32D (I am 5'3'' and 115lbs and extremely small framed). I am very self conscious about it and have a meltdowns occasionally in my closet as I get ready for work. I only wanted to fill my clothes out better and I feel as if I am just two breasts walking around now. I told my surgeon that after the procedure and he assured me that NOBODY ever came back and complained they were too big. Well, guess what, I AM! Honestly, I will be happy with my Bs back. I have not had children so I am hoping that maybe my original size and shape will return. I know an exam is necessary to know for sure but at my age, should I get a lift too? Thoughts on that? > > Again, ALL of you are so amazing. Of course, if any of you know someone in Nashville that you would recommend, that would be great. I have found the name of two doctors who advertise explants along with their other services. Both trained at Vanderbilt for their plastics fellowship. > > > Have a great weekend! > Dawn > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 26, 2009 Report Share Posted July 26, 2009 - Hi Dawn, Below is some info I got on another silicone sites for test. I know how frusterated you are, I have the same problems with Doctors as well as many of the other women I am sure. There are places that you can go for these test without a doctors referrel, you will have to look them up on the internet.The name of one of them is PRIVATE MD MEDICAL LAB. I hope this helps. Don't worry your in the right place fro information and support!! Take care. Shanelle TESTS IMPLANTED WOMEN MAY NEED (I am still researching this subject, and will add more as I discover what they are. Feel free to print this page to take to your Doctors, and if you would like to use this on your site, you are very welcome. We need to get this information out to the ladies! EMAIL ME if you know about more tests that I may add to this information.) Laboratory evalution should consist of the following: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CBC - This test is to see whether or not the patient is anemic, which mean low blood. Patient is also to be checked to see if there is any abnormaility of the patient's clotting mechanism and determine if she has a low or high white cell count. The reason for this is that the diseases which are being investigated, many times will cause a low grade anemia or abnormalities in the white cell count. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SMA - This test consists of about twenty tests determining any abnormalities in kidney function, liver function, heart studies or muscle studies. If the patient has one of the major arthritides that is being looked for (such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus or Scleroderma,) the patient may have involvement of the major organ systems. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RHEUMATOID FACTOR - This test is to primarily screen for Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is also found in some of the other illnesses such as lupus or scleroderma or the early auto-immune diseases. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IMMUNOGLOBULIN - This test consists of IgG, IgA and IgM. These are responsible for your defense system. In more simple terms, your defense system is what determines how you will respond to infections. In silicome patients, it's been found that the silicone stimulates the immunoglobulin and it usually makes the levels high. That's an indication that there is an abnormality in your immune system most likely from silicone. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANA PROFILE - Represents antinuclear antibody. It is a protein that is found primarily in the blood and it is an indicator of multiple different auto-immune or early auto-immune diseases. Primarily lupus or scleroderma or early auto-immune disease will give the patient a positive ANA. It is usually recorded in titer, which means numbers anywhere from 40 up to the 1000s. Only about 5% of the healthy normal population will have a positive ANA. If the ANA is recorded as positive, it represents the fact that silicone is stimulating the immune system in an abnormal way. In the report one may notice where it may be stated that there is a certain pattern such as speckled or homogeneous. It does not have any significant relevance to the patient. The last paft of the test is to determine if there is a specific ANA that is positive. If the general ANA screen test is positive, there are certain tests specific for immune disorders. For example: SM - the diagnostic test for lupus Anti-scleroderma 70 - the test for scleroderma SSA & SSB - Sjogrens's syndrome Anti-centromere Antibody - diagnostic for localized scleroderma The majority of patients will have negative specific antibodies. If they are positive, they are very specific in in diagnosing a serious arthritic or immunological disorder. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SIALOGANGLIOSIDE GM1 AB - ANTI-SULFATIDE IGG & IgM- Tests usually done in conjunction with IgG, IgA, and IgM. It shows antibodies against MBP (Myelin Basic Proteins), and gangliosides, (including GM1, GD1a, GD1b, and LM1, and other acidic Glycolipids, including LK1 and sulphatide,) of Human brain and peripheral nerves. This can be positive in the following neurological conditions: Multiple Sclerosis Guillain Barr's Syndrome Chronic Inflammatory monoclonal IgM antibody (IgM Gammopathy) multiinfarct dementia alzheimers rheumatoid arthritis toxic chemical exposure silicone adjuvent disease ( Myelin is the membrane surrounding the nerve fibers in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Antibodies against myelin is serious and can produce polyneuropathies.) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- anti-polymer antibody assay- test which shows silicone antibodies. Local complications, including encapsulation, rashes, rupture and leakage, can occur in a subset of individuals receiving silicone gel-containing breast implants (SBI). Whether SBI exposure results in systemic manifestations in some recipients is a matter of controversy. Women exposed or not exposed to SBI were recruited to participate in a blinded, single-center study of an anti-polymer antibody (APA) assay that detects the presence of serum antibodies directed against polymeric substances. The SBI recipients expressed various local and systemic complications or specific autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus. A Physician Global Assessment was used to classify SBI recipients who did not meet criteria for specific autoimmune diseases into two groups, limited/mild and moderate/advanced, on the basis of the severity of local and systemic signs and symptoms. Results of serological studies of the APA assay were compared to results with an anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) assay and with the severity of the signs and symptoms. SBI-exposed women in the moderate/advanced group were significantly more likely to test positive for APA than healthy control women or SBI-exposed women in the limited/mild group (both comparisons p<0.001). SBI-exposed women in the limited/mild group or SBI-exposed patients with specific autoimmune diseases were not significantly more likely to be APA positive than healthy controls. Women with specific autoimmune diseases not exposed to SBI had a higher percentage of ANA positive test results, but did not have an elevated percentage of APA positive test results. Interpretation. The APA assay can objectively contribute to distinguishing between SBI recipients with limited or mild signs and symptoms, SBI recipients with more severe manifestations, and patients with specific autoimmune diseases. Good article on test for SILICONE ANTIBODIES. THIS IS THE NEW " 800 " PHONE NUMBER FOR THE SILICONE CLINIC IN MEMPHIS,TN, AN AFFIALITE OF UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE MEDICAL GROUP: (877) 633-2299, ASK FOR MARION FREELAND THIS NUMBER IS A TOLL FREE NUMBER TO BE USED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR.SHANKLIN FOR AN EVALUATION FOR SILICONOSIS. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- July 1999, Information below is current. We present the following for your information, this is not intended as medical advice: For woman who have the polyurethane-coated Silicone Implants. TDA & TDI BLOOD & URINE TESTING: - Test for: 2,4Toluene Diamine and 2,6Toluene Diiosocyanate, AKA TDA & TDI . The TDA 2,4 & 2,6 SERUM TEST WAS CREATED IN MARCH 1993. (Urine created ?)THESE TESTS ARE FOR " CHEMICAL LEVELS OF BOTH TOXINS'', NOT ANTIBODY TESTS. NATIONAL MEDICAL SERVICES, WiLLOWGROVE PA. RUNS BOTH TESTS For out of state call: Nat. Med. at 800-522-6671 The test number for either serum or urine is : #4508 ( The doctor " MUST " specify chosen test, or both.) The cost is $93.00 each He must submit 2ml of blood serum or plasma in a grey or purple tube. Re: Urine, 20ml that is frozen & light protected, with 5drops of concentrated HCL (Anyone having these tests should have their lab or physician contact client services at Nat. Med., Pa. for exact specimen requirements. You must find out should the urine specimen be " mid-stream " as is usually required when they test for kidney, Uti infections etc.) IMPORTANT: These tests are usually sent through another lab. If the specimens are sent direct to Nat. Med., they " DO NOT " indicate on the report that positive findings of either " may be a result of breakdown of polyurethane implants " One lab that frequently uses the services of Nat. Medical Serv. is " Lab Corp " (previously called National Health Laboratories) Locations across the country. You can call 800-788-9091 or your local " Lab Corp " . The test numbers used by Lab Corp for TDA & TDI are as follows: URINE: #08657-0 & SERUM:#08710-9 (your DR may wish to indicate Nat.Meds. test #4508 also on the requisition form.) Lab Corp will forward either specimen to National Medical. The reason we preferLab Corp is on either the urine or serum test: The final report specifies: " A Positive finding indicates exposure to 2,6-Toluene diisocyante or 2,4 2,6-Toluenediamine; or a positive finding may be a breakdown of PolyurethaneImplants. The urine test specifies " pos. findings may indicate a " Disintegrated Breast Implant " . Also, most private physicians have accounts with the Lab Corp. chain, so a client would not need to submit pre-payment. Although we know these chemicals are stored in the fat, muscle, & organs etc., if a woman has been ex-planted she might want to have the URINE test first as it may not always show in the blood. (also it may not show in the urine either) " which doesn'tmean its not there " ... National Medical Services specializes in Chemical testing. They have great credentials " established for aprox 40 years. They also perform corp. drug testing, chain of evidence, forensic, etc. Their directory of Services can be requested by your Doctor. Confirmed: Private lab, " not owned by any of the SBI manufacturers or CMA's " -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Schirmer Test - The Schirmer Test measures the quantity of tears secreted in 5 minutes in response to irritation from a filter paper strip placed under each lower eyelid. A young person normally moistens 15 mm of each paper strip. Since hypolacrimation occurs with aging, 33% of normal elderly persons may wet only 10 mm in 5 minutes. Most persons with Sjorgren's Syndrome (SS) moisten (5 mm in 5 minutes, although about 15% of test results are false-positive and 15% false-negative. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thyroid function tests (TSH) - (Info coming on these tests) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Systemic Yeast/fungus Tests- ( " ) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Microchimerism (GVHD)- skin punch biopsy test for scleroderma. This can be positive when other tests are negative. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- acral bone dysplasia tests-silica can bind to the bone. Silica is a desiccant, long known to dry out, creating very dry tissue. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Some of the ladies are also needing Total BODY MRI's and Brain Scans to detect migrating silicone, check for bone deteriation, or changes in brain activity. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lymphocyte Evaluation- (Lab Corps test number 8315-0, This is a complete analysis of the immune system. Mainly the T-cells and the natural killer cells.Lab Corp. offers a very comprehensive test. It measures the total count of each cell and the percentage of cells. Many women who did not have positive findings from the standard immunology/ serology panels (RF, ANA, etc.) have been found to have suppressed and elevated T-cells when they had this test performed. Lab Corp provides exact numbers on the test results which is good, because sometimes you may not be out of range, but borderline high. Dr. Shanklin offers this test also. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- All of the studies are primarily investigating the immune system other than the CBC and the SMA and if any of them are abnormal, there is a strong indication that the silicone has caused abnormalities in the patient's immune system. -- In , " gracedawn0175 " <gracedawn0175@...> wrote: > > This is ALL such great information and resource. I will certainly be prepared when I see the endocrinologist. I have always been active and in shape and this " medical " issue has about pushed me over the edge. I swear if I hear a doctor say to me one more time that I LOOK healthy, I will scream. I am 34 and my body is trying to compensate but eventually even that wont be enough. I can barely get out of bed without my beta blocker medication. It is the only thing that is giving me a little relief from my symptoms. > > Does anyone out there have any suggestions specifically on tests to be run? > > My plan is to explant the entire implant and not replace. I was actually a good B size before surgery so most of my natural breast tissue is on the top portion of my implant. As far as size goes, I want to say it was around 275cc. Of course that sounds close to a C but as I said, I had a decent amount of tissue pre-op. So instead, I measure a 32D (I am 5'3'' and 115lbs and extremely small framed). I am very self conscious about it and have a meltdowns occasionally in my closet as I get ready for work. I only wanted to fill my clothes out better and I feel as if I am just two breasts walking around now. I told my surgeon that after the procedure and he assured me that NOBODY ever came back and complained they were too big. Well, guess what, I AM! Honestly, I will be happy with my Bs back. I have not had children so I am hoping that maybe my original size and shape will return. I know an exam is necessary to know for sure but at my age, should I get a lift too? Thoughts on that? > > Again, ALL of you are so amazing. Of course, if any of you know someone in Nashville that you would recommend, that would be great. I have found the name of two doctors who advertise explants along with their other services. Both trained at Vanderbilt for their plastics fellowship. > > > Have a great weekend! > Dawn > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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