It has taken a little courage to put my story on paper for people to read, but I felt a need to share this extraordinary event. There are some people who are forced to live their entire life with congenital deformities. I was one of the lucky ones, I found a man who could make a difference.

I was eleven years old when I first noticed visible signs of breast development in my left breast. Unfortunately, my right side remained a cavity where I could easily count my ribs. This condition is called Poland’s Syndrome. One in 32,000 people are born with this congenital deformity. I endured immeasurable embarrassing situations throughout puberty and adolescence. The adult relationships were no less trying. For 37 years my wardrobe was limited to specific styles and fabrics which camouflaged my condition.

I can remember at 7 years old my mother questioned our family doctor about the difference in my chest and abdominal region. At the age of 13 I had my first visit with a specialist. His only solution was a custom made bra constructed of foam padding.

By the time I reached the age of 18 my left breast was fully developed. At that time I made an appointment to see a doctor who performed a relatively new procedure that was available to women. I was excited and apprehensive about the visit. I discovered I was a candidate for implants; unfortunately there was no medical procedure to change the surrounding area of the breast. My ribs were visible up to my collar bone. Implants would give me a breast, but I would still have a cavity in my chest area. Discouraged, I left the doctors office and never returned.

I barely turned 48 years old when I had my first visit with Dr. Schusterman in January 2005. We discussed the options as he studied my condition. After he listened attentively to my expectations, he told me what was plausible. He informed me this would require 2 to 3 procedures to correct my condition. The extent of the reconstruction predetermined being perfectly symmetrical would be difficult to achieve. I was assured all efforts would be made to accomplish that goal. This was more then replacing a portion of muscle; it required my entire chest area to be reconstructed.

After two procedures and a short recovery time I was out shopping for my new wardrobe.

I wish I had eloquent words to express my heartfelt gratitude. Dr. Schusterman has given me something that I longed for all my life….to look and feel like a complete woman. I am sincerely thankful for his skillfulness in reconstructive surgery. The concern and professionalism of his staff were commendable.

My whole life has changed. I endured years of shame, guilt, and frustration. I no longer hide from mirrors. I no longer struggle with wardrobe limitations. I no longer suffer embarrassing situations. I no longer cover myself during intimacy. Many of the obstacles I once faced on a daily basis have been removed from my path.

I once read, “Beauty is how you feel inside”. For some of us, our outward appearance forbids that perception. Now I feel incredibly beautiful and it is a wonderful sensation.

Thank you Dr. Schusterman, your expertise gave that to me.