Understanding Breast Implant Illness: What You Need to Know
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures worldwide, with millions of women opting for implants to enhance their appearance. However, an increasing number of women have reported a range of symptoms they believe are linked to their breast implants, a condition often referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII). While BII is not yet fully understood by the medical community, awareness is growing, and it’s essential for prospective patients to be informed.
What is Breast Implant Illness?
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of systemic symptoms that some women attribute to their breast implants. These symptoms can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild to debilitating, and often mimic other autoimmune or connective tissue disorders. Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Chronic fatigue and weakness
- Joint and muscle pain
- Cognitive difficulties such as memory loss and brain fog
- Skin rashes and hair loss
- Anxiety and depression
- Hormonal imbalances
- Gastrointestinal problems
These symptoms can appear at any time—immediately after surgery or years down the line. Because the symptoms are so varied and can overlap with other medical conditions, diagnosing BII can be challenging.
What is the difference between partial or total en bloc capsulectomy?
En bloc capsulectomy is only recommended by the FDA and our professional societies to treat anaplastic large cell lymphoma, a rare subtype of lymphoma that has found to be related to textured breast implants. In cases where ALCL is not suspected, removal of the entire capsule around the breast implant is not necessary.
Potential Causes
While the exact cause of BII is not well-defined, several theories have been proposed:
Autoimmune Response: Some researchers believe that BII may be related to an autoimmune or inflammatory response to the breast implants. This could be triggered by the body recognizing the implants as foreign objects and mounting an immune response against them.
Toxins and Chemicals: Breast implants, particularly silicone ones, contain various chemicals and heavy metals. There is speculation that these substances could leach into the body over time, potentially leading to systemic issues.
Bacterial Contamination: Biofilm, a thin layer of bacteria that can form on the surface of implants, has also been suggested as a possible cause. This could potentially lead to chronic low-grade infections, contributing to the symptoms of BII.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Currently, there is no specific test to diagnose BII. Instead, it is generally diagnosed based on symptoms and the exclusion of other potential causes. Some women undergo a series of blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with specialists to rule out other conditions.
The primary treatment for BII is the removal of the breast implants, a procedure known as explantation. Many women report a significant improvement or complete resolution of their symptoms following explantation. However, this is not guaranteed, and some women continue to experience symptoms even after their implants are removed.
Making an Informed Decision
If you are considering breast augmentation, it’s crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Discuss the possibility of BII with your plastic surgeon, and ask about their experience and protocols for minimizing risks. It’s also wise to:
Research Thoroughly: Understand the types of implants available, including saline and silicone, and their respective advantages and risks.
Consider Alternatives: If you are apprehensive about implants, discuss alternative procedures, such as fat grafting, with your surgeon.
Monitor Your Health: If you already have implants, stay vigilant about any new symptoms and seek medical advice if you experience health issues.
Contact Us
Breast Implant Illness is a complex and often controversial topic within the medical community. While more research is needed to fully understand the condition, being informed about the potential risks is vital for anyone considering breast implants. Open communication with your healthcare provider and a proactive approach to monitoring your health can help you make the best decision for your body and well-being.
