Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Breast implants have allowed millions of women to reshape their bodies and regain confidence. However, for some women, breast implants have led to mysterious symptoms collectively referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII).
BII refers to a wide range of symptoms that can develop after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. While the condition is not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis, many women report experiencing debilitating symptoms that improve only after having their implants removed.
As breast implants grow in popularity, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks. This guide uncovers everything you need to know about the controversial condition of Breast Implant Illness.
What Exactly is Breast Implant Illness?
Breast Implant Illness is a term used to describe a variety of systemic symptoms that develop in patients after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction surgery with implants.
While the exact cause remains unknown, leading theories suggest that BII may be related to:
- An autoimmune or inflammatory reaction to implant materials
- Bacterial contamination around the implant
- Toxicity from chemicals released by implant materials
Regardless of the cause, BII is characterized by the development of chronic symptoms affecting multiple areas of the body. It’s important to note that BII is different from recognized complications like capsular contracture or implant rupture.
What are the Symptoms of BII?
Since the signs of BII can be so non-specific, many patients suffer for years before suspecting their implants may be the cause.
Symptoms generally involve several of the following areas:
| Physical Symptoms | Cognitive & Neurological Symptoms | Emotional Symptoms |
| Fatigue
Muscle aches and weakness Joint pain and swelling Headaches and migraines Skin rashes Hair loss Gastrointestinal issues Food sensitivities Breast pain |
Brain fog
Poor memory and concentration Dizziness Vertigo Tremors Numbness/tingling Insomnia |
Depression
Anxiety Mood swings Irritability |
While any individual symptom could indicate various conditions, the development of multiple symptoms after implantation may raise red flags. Symptom severity can range from mild to completely disabling.
Challenges in Diagnosing BII
BII is often diagnosed by ruling out other potential causes of symptoms, as there are no definitive diagnostic criteria specifically for BII. This process can be lengthy and frustrating for patients who may suffer from vague and non-specific symptoms for years before suspecting their implants as the source.
Diagnostic Process
- Medical History: A thorough review of the patient’s medical history, including the timeline of symptom onset and details about the implants, is crucial in understanding the potential link to BII.
- Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical exam helps assess overall health and specific symptoms associated with BII.
- Bloodwork: Testing is often conducted to rule out autoimmune diseases and endocrine disorders that may present similar symptoms.
- Imaging: Imaging techniques, such as MRI or ultrasound, may be used to evaluate implant integrity and detect complications like ruptures or capsular contracture.
Due to the absence of specific biomarkers for BII, diagnoses heavily depend on the patient’s reported symptoms and the expertise of healthcare providers familiar with BII.
Advocacy groups play a significant role in raising awareness about BII, which is essential for improving recognition and understanding of this condition among healthcare professionals and the general public.
Why A Multifactorial Approach Is Needed to Treat BII
While removing the implants often leads to improvement, a multi-pronged approach is typically needed to fully treat BII based on the individual’s symptoms. This can involve a combination of surgical treatments, lifestyle changes, medications, and alternative therapies.
Surgical Treatments
Removing the implants is often the first step, with many patients experiencing symptom relief after this procedure. Techniques like en bloc capsulectomy can be beneficial, where both the implant and surrounding scar tissue are taken out together to minimize residual materials left behind.
Lifestyle Approaches
Modifying diet to reduce inflammation is often recommended, like limiting sugar, dairy, and gluten. Anti-inflammatory diets rich in vegetables, omega-3s, and antioxidants may also help some patients.
Managing stress through mindfulness, therapy, or lifestyle changes can also support overall wellbeing as well as regular physical activity, massage, stretching, and physiotherapy to aid recovery.
Conventional Medications
- Steroids or Immunosuppressants: These may be prescribed to control inflammatory and autoimmune responses.
- Antibiotics: If bacterial infection or contamination is suspected, antibiotics may be utilized short-term.
- Antidepressants/Anti-anxiety Medications: These can help manage psychological symptoms frequently associated with BII.
Alternative Therapies
- Acupuncture: Some find acupuncture helps relieve pain and inflammation.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: This treatment may assist healing and provide symptom relief.
- Photobiomodulation: Also known as low-level light therapy, this alternative treatment is being explored for potential benefits.
Since BII is multifactorial, taking an integrated approach customized to the individual gives the best chance of resolving persistent symptoms long-term.
Preventing BII Starts With Education and Open Communication
While more research is needed, some potential risk factors for developing BII include:
- Surface texturing of implants
- Genetic predispositions
- Existing autoimmune issues
- Certain bacterial strains
Patients can take proactive steps to reduce risks:
- Researching implants thoroughly before surgery
- Communicating health history and concerns to surgeons
- Considering smooth implants or autologous breast reconstruction
- Practicing good hygiene before and after surgery
Careful screening and open discussion between doctor and patient enables better identification of high-risk individuals.
In addition to patient education, choosing a highly qualified surgeon also plays a crucial role in preventing unfortunate outcomes like BII.
How Selecting an Experienced Surgeon Reduces BII Risks
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing breast implant procedures can help minimize complications like BII.
Warning signs of an under qualified surgeon include:
- Offering extremely discounted pricing
- Limited before and after photos
- Pushing for oversized implants
- Failing to discuss risks thoroughly
Ideal traits in a surgeon include:
- Board certification in plastic surgery
- Membership in accredited societies like ASAPS
- Years of focused training in implant procedures
- Aesthetic talent showcased in implant results
- Clear communication and patience during consultations
- Caution against excessive size increases
An expert surgeon will guide patients through appropriate implant style, positioning, and size while carefully evaluating individual risk factors. They understand how to minimize trauma to the tissue and prevent contamination during surgery.
Taking time to research and consult with top specialists in breast augmentation reduces the chances of suffering from BII down the road. If considering breast implants or struggling with implant-related illness, turn to the experts at CNY Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery.
With decades of combined experience, our board-certified plastic surgeons offer personalized consultations to educate patients, set appropriate expectations, and determine candidacy. We utilize the latest techniques to optimize safety and aesthetics while minimizing complications.
Contact us today to safeguard your health and satisfaction when pursuing implants.
The Bottom Line
Despite the lack of definitive diagnostic criteria, thousands of women adamantly stand behind their experiences of improved health after explanting their breast implants.
While more research is still needed, the proven benefits of implant removal for some patients underscores the importance of education and communication between patients and doctors.
Women considering breast implants should thoroughly research potential risks and work with experienced surgeons to make the most informed choices for their health and safety.
For those experiencing new onset symptoms after implantation, prompt evaluation and multimodal treatment guided by a trusted provider gives the best chance of resolving persistent illness.
