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Getting breast implants can result in a larger, fuller, and more enhanced breast appearance that can change a woman’s life for the better. In some instances, however, some women experience a wide range of non-specific symptoms after augmentation or reconstruction with breast implants that point to breast implant illness (BII).

Woman with a gloved hand covering nipple on her bare breast. Close up view.The symptoms experienced range from chronic fatigue to muscle and joint pain, fevers, brain fog, dry eyes, breathing problems, skin problems, breast changes, gastrointestinal issues, and a host of other problems that appear at any time after the implant surgery.

BII isn’t recognized as an official medical diagnosis, meaning there are no diagnostic criteria as of yet. This has caused many women who think they are dealing with BII to go through several doctors before their symptoms are taken seriously. And to make matters more complicated, not all doctors and surgeons believe this condition exists in the first place.

With the increasing cases and number of studies looking at the condition (and the growing discussion on social media platforms), positive changes may be made in the near future.

What Causes Breast Implant Illness?

Since breast implant illness (BII) isn’t recognized as a medical illness, it’s hard to point to its causes. A leading theory is that some people are predisposed to having an immune reaction to specific components of breast implants, such as silicone. This creates inflammation that leads to symptoms such as joint aches, rashes, etc. Others link it to the body’s reaction to surgical techniques and the insertion of breast implants.

It’s also possible that some cases are due to undiagnosed conditions, such as autoimmune disease. Women diagnosed with autoimmune or connective tissue disorders, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, etc. tend to have a higher risk for BII. That’s why it makes sense to consider alternatives to implants if you have any potential risk factors for BII, such as autoimmune conditions or silicone allergies.

Again, there isn’t enough research to guide a woman’s exact chances of getting breast implant illness. Therefore, it is important that you are informed of all potential risks of a breast implant before moving forward with the procedure.

Does Breast Implant Removal Help?

In many cases, an improvement has been found in patients’ symptoms after removing breast implants. However, it’s unclear what symptoms may or may not improve following the implant and capsule removal.

Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Bridges

Do you have any concerns about breast implant illness? If you have evaluated your symptoms through lab testing and ruled out other medical conditions, then it’s fair to consider a breast implant removal.

During your consultation, Dr. Bridges will carefully evaluate your breasts to make sure there is nothing wrong with the implants and provide his expert advice concerning your implant removal.

Contact us today at 318-219-8555 or fill our online form to schedule your consultation and learn more.

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