Speaking for myself, I have been on estradiol, finasteride and spironolactone for over a year now and the results are fantastic. My last bra is a 40C and it is too small in the cups and too loose around the chest. Time for a new size.
Without mentioning doses, which are standard prescribed doses, I will admit to taking my estradiol under the tongue.
My endocrinologist knows this. The prescriptions for estradiol are filled at my local pharmacy with the Teva brand. Any brand of estradiol that will dissolve under the tongue is going to be much more effective than oral estradiol.
I am not and have never been a smoker of tobacco or any other vegetative material. Yes, this does make a difference. Vegetables are for eating, not smoking!