Breast Implant Illness

Breast Implant Illness | Santa Ana, San Clemente

The vast majority of women after breast augmentation are happy and healthy. But some women develop medical problems that are termed Breast Implant Illness (BII).

What is Breast implant Illness (BII)?

BII is a term that is used to refer to a series of symptoms in women who have undergone breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. Some women that come in for a complimentary consultation with us are “self-referred” as their symptomatology matches their peers in social media groups.

What are the symptoms associated with BII?

Breast Implant Illness (BII) entails a constellation of symptoms which include, but is not limited to fatigue, joint and muscle pain, memory problems (brain fog), rash, dry mouth, and dry eyes, anxiety/depression and hair loss. Some patients also complain of gastrointestinal symptoms.

How do you diagnose BII?

There are no diagnostic tools to diagnose breast implant illness at this time; however, a thorough discussion with your surgeon should prompt treatment. BII is not an official medical diagnosis as it is poorly understood, however, according to Dr. Zuckerman “BII is a cluster of symptoms that do not fit into any other classic disease diagnosis.”

What type of implants can cause BII?

BII can occur in a patient with saline or silicone implants, smooth or textured, shaped or round implants.

What can be done to treat BII?

In most cases, removal of the implant with or without removal of the capsule can be used to treat BII and resolve most if not all of your symptoms if they are due to the implant. Many surgeons utilize the term “en-bloc” capsulectomy which entails the removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue as a whole unit. This ensures the silicone biofilm which may be present is removed also.

If you have any concerns about the symptoms you are experiencing, please schedule a free consultation with our team!