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What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast implant illness (BII) is a medical condition that is sometimes diagnosed when a woman with implants presents with unexplained symptoms such as hair loss, fatigue, and skin rashes. Other symptoms such as joint pain, general inflammation, and brain fog are also common.

Unfortunately, not much is known about breast implant illness. It has a specific name, however, because there is persistent evidence that many women with implants do develop severe symptoms after augmentation surgery, and these symptoms often abate after the implants are removed.

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What Causes Breast Implant Illness?

No one knows for sure what causes breast implant illness. Naturally, the presence of the implants themselves is a precursor to the illness. However, beyond that, little is known. The condition is not an “officially recognized” medical illness and is not generally well understood.

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Is Breast Implant Illness Common?

According to current breast implant illness statistics, the risk of overall complications related to breast implants is around 1%. It’s important to note that this includes all issues, such as changes in sensation, soreness, and the formation of scar tissue. This means that the likelihood of contracting breast implant illness after undergoing breast augmentation with implants is less than 1%.

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Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness

Individuals who think they may have breast implant illness symptoms should consult their doctor.

Unfortunately, there is a range of symptoms associated with BII, but many of them are also associated with other serious conditions, such as Lyme disease or arthritis. Therefore, it’s important to collect a comprehensive list of what’s ailing you so that other possible medical issues can be ruled out before considering BII.

If you have been experiencing health problems and think BII could be the cause, be on the lookout for these breast implant illness symptoms:

  • Hair loss
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain
  • Skin rashes
  • Unexplained swelling and visible inflammation
  • Muscle weakness
  • Low vision
  • Chronic dry eyes
  • Dry mouth
  • Headaches
  • Generalized pain or body aches
  • Weight fluctuations
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Nipple discharge
  • Breast rashes or redness
  • Breast soreness or pain
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • General fatigue and a lack of energy
  • Changes in sleep
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory issues
  • Brain fog
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Who Is Most at Risk?

Because of the indeterminate nature of breast implant illness, it’s difficult to pinpoint what populations are most at risk. Surely, the illness only seems to affect those with breast implants. That is, similar symptoms do not appear to be common with other types of prostheses.

On the other hand, researchers and scientists have presented some information that may associate BII with autoimmune disease. That is, there may be a relationship between patients who have autoimmune illnesses and BII.

Patients who have BII symptoms are often sufferers of an autoimmune disorder, or they are eventually diagnosed with one. To be sure, many of the symptoms related to breast implant illness are also linked with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Lyme disease, and lupus — all autoimmune disorders or autoimmune responses.

How Do You Test for Breast Implant Illness?

Unfortunately, breast implant illness can be extremely difficult to diagnose because there is no breast implant illness test. Doctors can take blood tests to rule out other issues, but there is no blood test specifically designed to diagnose BII. Rather, your doctors will assess your condition based on your symptoms. Essentially, breast implant illness tends to be determined based on a diagnosis of exclusion.

This means that, because doctors can’t look for specific symptoms that will definitely indicate breast implant illness, they must, instead, rule out other possible conditions. When no other possible conditions are likely, but the patient still presents with chronic and serious symptoms that may be related to breast implant illness, it is usually diagnosed.

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Breast Implant Illness Treatments & Solutions

The most common way to treat breast implant illness is with breast implant removal—also known as breast explant surgery. Once the implants have been entirely removed, not all, but most patients report significant improvement (if not complete abatement) of their symptoms.

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What Happens During Breast Explant Surgery?

Breast explant surgery is the surgical removal of breast implants. Some patients undergo this procedure simply because they no longer desire implants. Others undergo the surgery as a result of implant rupture or because of breast implant illness-related symptoms. During breast implant removal surgery, you will first be given anesthesia.

Next, your surgeon will generally create an incision either beneath the breast in the inframammary fold or around the areola (where the darker skin of the areola meets the rest of your skin). Typically, the initial incision that was made during your augmentation surgery is reused. Each implant will then be carefully removed.

Depending on the nature of the scar tissue that formed as a result of your implant, the “pocket” of scar tissue (often called the breast capsule) may or may not be removed along with the implant. Lastly, your incisions will be closed, and you will be sent to a postoperative care room to recover. Most patients are able to return home on the same day as their surgery.

What Will I Look Like After Breast Implant Removal Surgery?

Every woman’s results will be different after breast implant removal. Much of your result will have to do with your unique anatomy, age, and skin elasticity. How long you have had your implants in will also play a large role in your surgical outcome.

More specifically, older women who have had their implants in for a number of years may not regain as much of a youthful "bounce" after surgery as younger women with greater skin elasticity may. For this reason, and because many women still desire a youthful appearance to their breasts, it is sometimes an option to undergo a breast lift at the same time as breast explant surgery.

Should I Get a Breast Lift With Explant Surgery?

Whether or not you decide to undergo a breast lift along with your breast implant removal is up to you. Discuss your options with your surgeon. He or she will tell you what you can expect your breasts to look like after surgery based on the factors discussed above (age, anatomy, skin elasticity, time with implants, etc.).

If you are concerned about the appearance of your breasts without implants and your surgeon does not have concerns about performing a breast explant with lift surgery, this may be an option to consider.

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When Should I See a Doctor?

Any woman who has implants and is experiencing what could be breast implant illness symptoms should see her doctor.

In addition to seeing your primary physician, it’s also a good idea to meet with the surgeon who performed your breast augmentation surgery, when possible. Some patients may choose to see a different plastic surgeon in Dallas; however, Dr. Mohan has met with patients who are concerned about possible breast implant illness symptoms. In some cases, after discussing the patient’s condition, he has removed their implants upon their request. Dr. Mohan estimates that in around 50% of such cases, symptoms have generally abated after implant removal.

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Why Choose Dr. Raja Mohan?

Patients choose Dallas breast explant and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Raj for a variety of reasons. He trained and studied with the best in the industry as a peer and leader, and this commitment means that his patients are always able to benefit from advancements at the cutting edge of science and surgery. He is knowledgeable and personable and is known for both candor and compassion. He really cares about his patients, and it shows, both in how he interacts with them as well as in the quality of patient care he provides. Ultimately, all roads end with outcomes, and the reason most people choose Dr. Raj as their Dallas breast explant doctor is that he delivers results that speak for themselves.

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Breast Implant Illness Frequently Asked Questions

Can you prevent breast implant illness?

Because doctors and medical researchers don’t know exactly what causes breast implant illness, the only sure way to prevent this illness is to not get implants. Of course, if you already have implants, be sure to monitor any symptoms, and don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor if you are concerned.

When does breast implant illness begin?

There is no strict timeline for breast implant illness. It may begin right away after the implants are put in or years down the line.

Is breast implant illness reversible?

The only known way to “reverse” breast implant illness is to remove the implants. This appears to resolve—or at least improve—symptoms in most cases.

Should I get my breast implants removed?

If you have symptoms in line with breast implant illness symptoms, you should definitely speak to your plastic surgeon and primary physician about what could be causing the symptoms. When all other medical conditions and possibilities are ruled out, breast implant illness may be the source of your sickness, and this may mean that getting your breast implants removed is a good idea.

Is breast implant removal painful?

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is similar to breast augmentation surgery. You will have some swelling, bruising, and soreness after surgery. You may also be slightly stiff and sore. With time, these symptoms will improve until you return to normal mobility and all swelling disappears.

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I want To extend my Deep Appreciation To Dr. Raj and his entire staff. Dr. Raj thank you so much for your honesty, and knowledge about my result after healing. I usually get Nervous when I come in contact with doctors & forget all the questions I had in mind to ask, but not with you. You made me feel like I was having a conversation w...

I want To extend my Deep Appreciation To Dr. Raj and his entire staff. Dr. Raj thank you so much for your honesty, and knowledge about my result after healing. I usually get Nervous when I come in contact with doctors & forget all the questions I had in mind to ask, but not with you. You made me feel like I was having a conversation with a friend. Mrs. Nicole is such a sweet heart, She held my hand throughout each visit.. I don't know what I would've done without her, and Mrs. Alice I want to thank you for always being ONE Call away, no matter the time or day of the week . She answered all of my questions even when I asked her the same question a 1,000 times lol .. ITS VERY RARE THAT YOU GO TO A PLACE OF BUSINESSES AND RECEIVE GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE FROM THE ENTIRE STAFF EACH TIME YOU VISIT. YOU GUYS HAVE RAISED THE BAR ON CUSTOMER SERVICE ... IM SENDING BEST WISHES TO DR. Raj & THE ENTIRE STAFF...!!

Elizabeth Spencer 5 out of 5 stars

I initially chose Dr. Raja for numerous reasons. The most important being that he is board certified, not all plastic surgeons are. I called several different local plastic surgeons throughout the Dallas metroplex and was discouraged either because they weren't board certified, if they were more "popular" they would charge more or I simpl...

I initially chose Dr. Raja for numerous reasons. The most important being that he is board certified, not all plastic surgeons are. I called several different local plastic surgeons throughout the Dallas metroplex and was discouraged either because they weren't board certified, if they were more "popular" they would charge more or I simply just didn't get a good vibe. I am a question asker and a researcher. I really do my homework before I let anyone performe any work anywhere on my body. The last thing I want, or need, is to end up on the TV show "Botched." I also believe you have an intuition for a reason and after meeting with Dr. Raja in person it just felt right. He took his time, was on time (a HUGE pet peeve of mine is respect for my time), and he answered every single question I had. He showed me plenty of photographs and gave his advice on what procedure would work best for my desired result. He is also very meticulous pre-surgery, as well, which some might find "bothersome" or "annoying" but I applaud him for this trait. He made sure all blood work was complete, he reviewed my medical history in detail and made sure I was healthy enough for the surgery. He isn't a doctor that will simply "take the job, to make a buck." If you don't qualify he will turn you away. His work will prove his talent but this, in itself, proves his great character. I now not only have found a wonderful plastic surgeon but a friend as well. I know I can count on him if I ever need him medically for anything in the future. A good doctor can be found anywhere but a great person is just icing on the top.

Anonymous 5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Raja Mohan = the best. He is very professional, knowledgeable, caring and any procedure that he performs is not painful. My recovery after my surgery was smooth and fast. Everyone that works at his office is very polite, professional and caring as well.

Alexandra Gonzalez Cuadrado 5 out of 5 stars

Dr Raja is amazing! He doesn't seem like one of those surgeons just out to make money. I went in for a consult and he kept it real with me and gave me recommendations based on his extensive knowledge and love for what he does. He patiently answered all my questions and you can tell he genuinely cares about his patients.

Jeena Mathew 5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Mohan is the best! I already had idea of the cost. He was incredible and detailed, and went through all of my options to achieve my goals. Unlike other experiences, he wanted me to understand and be happy with my decision. His staff was so kind and the process of booking was so easy! I highly recommend him for anyone looking for a ...

Dr. Mohan is the best! I already had idea of the cost. He was incredible and detailed, and went through all of my options to achieve my goals. Unlike other experiences, he wanted me to understand and be happy with my decision. His staff was so kind and the process of booking was so easy! I highly recommend him for anyone looking for a great surgeon.

Stephanie 5 out of 5 stars

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Raj’s nurse injector. It was my first time getting filler and she was very confident and comforting. My lips turned out great! I’ve had Botox several times, but this was by far my best experience. My friends have had surgery by Dr. Raj and he did a fantastic job.

The office staff was informa...

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Raj’s nurse injector. It was my first time getting filler and she was very confident and comforting. My lips turned out great! I’ve had Botox several times, but this was by far my best experience. My friends have had surgery by Dr. Raj and he did a fantastic job.

The office staff was informative and helpful as well. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I definitely recommend scheduling a consult and seeing what Dr. Raj can do and will do for you!

Kate Knutson 5 out of 5 stars
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