Letting Go of Breast Implants

If you are struggling with the idea of removing your implants, I see you. You are not alone.

Having had implants myself for 14 years (2 sets), I understand how they can become a part of how you see yourself, your identity. For me, they determined how I shopped, from big event dresses to lingerie and I enjoyed the hourglass figure I saw in the mirror. These feelings, however, pale in comparison to the feeling of wholeness and wellness I have now.

Below I have listed some of the major obstacles to removing breast implants and how best to work through those.

1. Cost: "I spent $10,000 on these implants and I don't want that money to have been a waste".

Either you spent your own money or a loved one helped cover the cost. You may even still be paying them off, but money cannot come before your health. Health is wealth. If you are feeling sick from your implants, the money will pale in comparison to the glow of real health. Think of ways where you can save money, or make extra money. Read You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero for inspiration. Get it from the library for free.

2. Surgery: "I don't want to undergo another surgery".

Yes, surgery is the not the most fun you will ever have. Consider though, that you will have to have another surgery anyway when the implants you have now need to be replaced. Even the FDA understands that these are not lifetime devices. Another surgery is inevitable. At least with complete removal, you can be sure you won't need to do another one in 10 years.

3. Time: "I don't have the time to take off work to recover".

There is a saying among Health Coaches, "if you don't take the time for your health now, you will be forced to take the time for sickness later". This is true for money as well, eventually the sickness takes it's toll on your bank account. Take control of the narrative and choose health. Most women are back to work in a week, two at the most. Time spent on improving your health is time well spent.

4. Self-confidence: "I am afraid that I won't feel like a woman without them. I remember feeling a distinct lack before, it's why I got them. Also, swimsuits".

I can't speak for all women but many, myself included, get implants to fill some sort of void. So the idea of taking them out and going back to that person can be scary. This is a big one to tackle and I 100% hear you on this one. I can honestly say that I have never felt prettier than since I have had my implants removed. It's true, my boobs are much smaller than before (I went form DD to A). The ratio of bust to waist is a much smaller margin now too. You know what though? I don't care. Yeah, I don't care anymore. I took the time to love myself and you can too. First, spend a lot of time alone with your own thoughts and consider how you will feel with any sort of outcome. Decide if any of those outcomes will make you feel less than the full complete human that you are. Next, look at yourself in the mirror and point out all the wonderful qualities you have. Tell yourself nice things. Hint: make something up if you really can't find anything. Eventually, you will start to believe. Do this every day. Finally, find something bigger than yourself to believe in. This doesn't have to mean God, though it certainly can. It can also be the universe, or your kids. I recommend volunteering in your community as well to gain more perspective.

5. Admitting defeat: "I spent money and time on the implants, but I also convinced myself and those around me that this would make me happy. Taking them out would mean I admit defeat. That I was wrong, and I don't want to explain myself".

First let me say, changing your mind is your prerogative and you don't owe anyone an explanation about how you choose to care for yourself. Also, change and growth is a good thing. You have new information, you feel like a different person now, you have the right to undo something you did in the past. I'd even say you owe it yourself to take charge and do what is right for your body. Your future self will thank you.

In yoga it is said, "letting go is the hardest pose of all". I'd like to add "yoga is a lot harder with breast implants. Let go of those and watch how you fly."

Did I leave anything out? Let me know what is holding you back in the comments.