At severe risk of repeating myself possibly, I'd like to say that having pectus excavatum had a big negative impact on me growing up.  But... at age 18 when inquiring to have it fixed and get implants.. that was when I was told I had marfan syndrome.  My parents and I had never heard of marfan syndrome.  Of course the news was not welcomed it was a relief somehow to know why I had this chest wall problem  ( I still can't refer to is as "a deformity."...  that should tell ya something... <smile>  Anyway.... I guess i'm saying I'm thankful for it.  Othewise I could have very well died at 35 not knowing to look for that anuerysm I had then.   Amazing how things work themselves out sometimes.     I still have it of course and with two new scars over and around it from heart surgerys.  I just recently got a new smaller scar from implanting my new pacemaker.  My chest is no where near normal but I've grown very accustomed to it.  I've long given up the anger and resentment of having it.  However, I was 26 before I went out in a bathing suit without any padding or tshirts to hide my chest.  I finally just got over it.  Every once in a while I wonder what it would have been like.... then stop just as fast.  I just try to be thankful I am as healthy as I am... it could be worse.    My daughter was born with a normal chest and I admit I was soooo happy when she got past her 2nd bday with nothing protruding out (my parents said mine developed over the first couple of years of life.)  She has seen my chest many times over the years (she's 13 now) and it helps her get over not having a larger bosom!  I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have..... write on or off list! 

 

lisa inpensacola