This is a review of my very positive experience with Dr. Rhee for Breast Implants Removal in Jul 2023.
TLDR: The things I appreciate the most about Dr. Rhee are that he practices ethically, respected my autonomy, and prioritized my safety and well-being. He communicates very clearly, continually elicited my personal goals/concerns through every step of the process, and was open, transparent, and realistic about expectations. His surgical team, Suzanne and Erin were super professional and organized, enabling a smooth process from consultation to post-op. I would recommend Dr. Rhee to anyone without any hesitation.
About me: today I am age 30 in 2023, implants were inserted in 2017 (6 years lifespan), implants were inserted under the muscle, and implant sizes were originally 270 and 300 cc. My original breast size was a B cup. I asked for removal without any en bloc.
My story: In 2017, at the age of 24, I decided to get breast implants because I thought that having a cleavage would define me as a woman. I did not do enough research at the time and opted for a surgeon in Taiwan (NOT Dr. Rhee) who did not prioritize what was right for me. E.g. volume of the implant, type of implant.
For 6 years thereafter, I dealt with overly large breasts that caused various physical and psychological issues. Physical: progressively poorer posture, chronic back pain. Obstruction. I felt like I was carrying a dumbbell on my chest everywhere I walked. Psychological: I felt like I was constantly walking on a tightrope between feeling intruded upon vs. feeling guilt. My breast implants drew unwanted attention from people I did not want attention from, whether the people's intentions were perverse or judgmental. I covered my breasts with loose shirts. They hurt my self-esteem. I stopped exercising. I addressed my concerns to my original surgeon but they were minimized, and I was deprioritized time and time again.
In 2022 I started seriously looking for a surgeon to remove my implants as I was at my wit's end. I made a spreadsheet of potential surgeons because there were so many attributes to consider. Ultimately, I chose Dr Rhee because of these reasons, and while going through the process with him, I uncovered even more reasons why I made the right choice:
1. Easy Communication: Right from the start, the clinic's text messaging system made everything convenient.
2. Virtual Consultation: During the virtual consultation, Dr. Rhee took his time to understand my goals and concerns. He was thorough and followed up with a clear plan via email. The consultation was free and happened quickly.
3. Step-by-Step Guidance: Dr. Rhee's team provided a well-organized list of things to do before the surgery. It really helped me feel prepared.
4. Amazing Support: Erin was a gem in coordinating things. She kept me informed about my paperwork and even made sure my partner was in the loop about his role in my recovery.
5. Suzanne's advice on how to prepare physically for the surgery was super helpful.
6. Smooth Surgery Day: Dr. Rhee and Suzanne were there to address my concerns and make me comfortable. The whole process felt smooth, and my quick recovery was a testament to their expertise.
7. Painless Recovery: I was amazed that I barely felt any pain after the procedure. I didn't even need painkillers, which I wasn't expecting.
8. More than satisfied with the results. I was happy with how my breasts looked after the implants were removed. Dr. Rhee's work exceeded my expectations.
9. Attentive Follow-Up: During my follow-up Dr. Rhee and Suzanne were quick to take care of any concerns.
10. Life-Saving!: Dr. Rhee informed me that the implants I had were associated with risks. I felt so fortunate that they were removed. His dedication to my well-being truly touched me.
Thank you so much again, Dr. Rhee, Suzanne, and Erin! For ladies out there who are going through the same thing I did, please know that you are not alone and that you can take action to get your well-being back!
(Note: Yelp is not approving the 6 photos I posted even though I censored my nipples. To see them, please go to RealSelf.com) read more