As I look back on the events of the past year, one memory stands out vividly – the day I made the courageous decision to undergo breast implant removal surgery with Dr. Urzola in Costa Rica. A year has passed since that pivotal moment, and I am delighted to share my post-explant journey, a journey that has undoubtedly been the best decision for my health.
The road to recovery was long, spanning from the initiation of my health-focused efforts to the present day. The symptoms I experienced post-implantation were numerous and severe, ranging from fatigue, irritability, and anxiety to more complex issues such as hormonal imbalances, digestive troubles, and even struggles with fertility. Little did I know, this cascade of health challenges would eventually lead me to the revelation of Breast Implant Illness.
In 2012, when vague symptoms first appeared, I had no inkling that breast implants could be the culprit. Despite my lack of awareness regarding Breast Implant Illness at that time, I intuitively sensed a connection. Determined to uncover the root cause, I delved into the depths of my health, discovering a complex web of issues including Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, SIBO, parasites, candida, chronic Lyme Disease, HPA-Axis dysfunction, endometriosis, and more.
My journey toward healing involved addressing each of these issues individually, guided by extensive lab work and a commitment to holistic health. Despite notable improvements, persistent symptoms lingered, prompting me to question the true source of my health challenges. The looming prospect of potential harm to a future child further intensified my resolve to remove the implants.
The decision to explant was not without its emotional struggles. Acknowledging that my implants were a significant contributor to my health woes meant facing the reality that I had unintentionally caused harm to my own body. The journey since explantation has been transformative, marked by both physical and emotional milestones.
Immediate improvements were evident post-explantation. The lifting of brain fog, the disappearance of perioral dermatitis, and a brighter skin complexion were among the early signs of positive change. Over the subsequent months, my thyroid antibodies steadily declined, and a general sense of well-being returned. Today, all my symptoms have resolved, with occasional issues arising only during chelation cycles.
Navigating the path to recovery involved a multifaceted approach. Prior to explant, I addressed Lyme disease, parasites, candida, and SIBO, a sequence I now recommend post-explantation for optimal outcomes. Dry brushing, a daily routine to encourage lymph flow, played a crucial role in waste elimination, complemented by the use of binders to address silicone toxicity. Exercise, including light workouts and yoga, was reintroduced gradually, accompanied by daily sessions in a far infrared sauna for both surgical healing and detoxification.
Recognizing the uniqueness of each individual's healing journey, I advocate for personalized approaches. While various protocols exist, my emphasis on bio-individuality guides my recommendation to tailor solutions to each person's specific needs. My own detoxification program, essential in restoring my health, was not sourced from an MLM or distributorship but was crafted by a qualified doctor.
Dietary adjustments, including a plant-based focus with pasture-raised animal products, became integral to my recovery. Gluten avoidance, maintained for six years, persisted post-explant, along with careful management of food sensitivities revealed through lab testing. Prioritizing gut healing and strategic supplementation further contributed to my overall well-being.
Balancing hormones and supporting detox pathways played a crucial role in my recovery journey. My heterozygous status for C677T prompted the inclusion of a high-quality multivitamin complex with methylated folate. Non-toxic personal and household products, already part of my routine, aligned with my commitment to decreasing daily toxic burdens.
The post-explant period also involved excision surgery to address stage 4 endometriosis, a complication that persisted despite implant removal. While recovery from this procedure proved more challenging, it marked the final piece of the puzzle in achieving a pain-free existence.
Reflecting on this transformative journey, I can confidently attest to feeling better than I have in years. Heart palpitations, anxiety, mood swings, and a myriad of other symptoms have become distant memories. My newfound health has not only allowed me to reclaim my free-spirited self but has also inspired me to assist others on similar post-explant trajectories.
For those contemplating explantation, I emphasize the importance of recognizing breast implants as a potential source of chronic symptoms. Understanding that true health restoration hinges on the removal of this stressor is paramount. The journey post-explantation may involve setbacks, but listening to one's body, embracing rest during setbacks, and maintaining patience are crucial elements.
Throughout this process, I discovered the therapeutic benefits of regular detox baths, with epsom salts and baking soda proving particularly effective. Acknowledging setbacks as inevitable, I learned to incorporate grace and growth into my healing journey, finding joy even amid imperfection.
As I continue my detoxification work, I recognize the ongoing nature of maintaining gut health. In a world replete with unavoidable toxins, occasional supplementation remains a key aspect of sustaining well-being. The BII Warrior Detox Program, comprising three phases – Prep, Body, and Brain – has been instrumental in guiding my ongoing detox efforts.
In conclusion, this journey has not only brought physical healing but has also instilled a deep sense of gratitude for the profound lessons learned. A newfound level of health, emotional intimacy, spiritual connection, and the ability to guide others through their struggles are among the invaluable gifts bestowed upon me. Despite the challenges, I view this struggle as a blessing, one that led me to a higher plane of well-being. Whether you find solace in faith or simply in the power of courage, may this reflection inspire resilience in the face of adversity and the unwavering pursuit of hope even in the darkest of nights.