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Breast Implant Illness

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Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that may be related to the presence of breast implants. If you suspect that you have breast implant illness, we are here to assist you and connect you with the appropriate treatment options for your specific concerns.

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that may be related to the presence of breast implants. The exact cause is unknown, but an inflammatory or autoimmune response may cause the condition.

The onset of symptoms can occur at any time, but usually many years after breast augmentation. It is not known if BII is more common with certain types of implants. Symptoms might manifest shortly after the implant surgery or emerge years later, and the reported symptoms vary greatly. There is no definitive test for BII, and because BII has not yet gained official recognition as a medical diagnosis, many unanswered questions exist.

Understanding Symptoms

What are the symptoms of breast implant illness?

Reported symptoms associated with BII include:

  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Dry mouth and dry eyes
  • Anxiety/depressionHeadaches
  • Hair loss
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Cognitive dysfunction (brain fog)
  • Thyroid issues
  • Night sweats
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Heart palpitations

These symptoms can greatly impact an individual’s quality of life, leading to physical discomfort and emotional distress. It is crucial to note that these symptoms are likely linked to breast implants, but further research is still needed to substantiate this link.

Seeking professional guidance for breast implant illness:

If you suspect that the symptoms you are experiencing may be related to your breast implants, it is crucial to seek professional guidance. Dr Andrew Broadhurst, a specialised plastic surgeon, can help recognise symptoms of breast implant illness and develop personalised treatment plans.

Patient Health History:

Before your consultation, it’s advisable to compile a detailed personal health history. This should include information about your breast implant surgery, such as the date of the procedure, the type and size of implants used, and any previous complications or revisions. Additionally, provide a comprehensive overview of your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, medications, and lifestyle factors that may be relevant. A thorough health history is helpful in gaining a better understanding of your unique circumstances.

Examination:

Your initial consultation with Dr Broadhurst is a breast health evaluation, which typically includes a physical examination of the breast area. Through this, Dr Broadhurst can assess the condition of your breast tissue and the position and integrity of your breast implants. It is also a good opportunity to identify any visible signs of irregularities, such as asymmetry, changes in breast shape, skin abnormalities, and texture changes (softness/firmness).


Investigation (Breast Ultrasound):

Upon examining your breast implants, Dr Broadhurst may refer you for a breast ultrasound. A breast ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue and implants. This tool provides valuable insights into the condition of the breast tissue, the implant(s), and the naturally forming scar tissue that encases the implant, known as the “capsule.” This allows Dr Broadhurst to detect any abnormalities or signs of implant-related complications that may not be apparent through physical examination alone.

Through a Breast Ultrasound:

  • A radiographer will closely examine the breast area before sending a report to a plastic surgeon. This non-invasive procedure aids in assessing the health and integrity of the breast tissue, as well as the condition of the implants themselves. Potential issues, such as implant rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture, can be identified and evaluated. The results of the breast ultrasound serve as a critical assessment tool, guiding further evaluation and treatment decisions
  • By undergoing a consultation with Dr Andrew Broadhurst, you can gain a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of your breast health. With this knowledge, you can make informed choices regarding the management of your symptoms and, if necessary, the potential removal or revision of your breast implants.
  • Seeking professional guidance, including a comprehensive consultation and a breast ultrasound, is the first step towards addressing any concerns you may have related to breast implant illness.

Treatment Options

What are the Treatment Options for Breast Implant Illness?

Navigating Breast Implant Illness (BII) can be a challenging journey, but it’s important to remember that you have options for managing and addressing your symptoms. These treatment options aim to cater to both the physical and emotional aspects of BII, recognising the impact it can have on your overall well-being.

1. Symptom Management:

It is essential for those experiencing BII adjacent symptoms to prioritise their well-being. Regardless of the official medical classification, these symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Therefore, managing these symptoms is an important aspect of care. Symptom management can include strategies such as pain management, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications aimed at addressing overall comfort and well-being.

2. Surgical Removal of Breast Implants:

The removal process can involve the removal of the implants only, removing implants with a partial capsulectomy, or removing implants with total or en bloc capsulectomy. These procedures often include a combined surgery to reshape the breast, or the patient may wish to replace the implants with new implants.

Treating breast implant illness, Dr Andrew Broadhurst

“I pride myself on the individual care and support I provide each of my patients. From your first consultation, I will work one-on-one with you to tailor a treatment plan to suit your body.”

Meet Dr Broadhurst

Dr Andrew Broadhurst: Specialising in Breast Implant Removal:

Dr Andrew Broadhurst’s experience and understanding of the potential link between symptoms and breast implants allow him to provide valuable insights and recommendations to his patients. Dr Broadhurst’s approach involves open communication, ensuring that your concerns are heard and understood. He will work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and health concerns.

The decision to have breast implants removed is a deeply personal one, and it should be made after a comprehensive evaluation of several factors, including the individual’s symptoms, overall health, and personal goals.

Surgical Treatment Options For Breast Implant Illness

If you want to address your BII symptoms by having your breast implants surgically removed, various techniques may be employed based on the condition of your implants.

Removal of Breast Implants

This procedure involves the standalone removal of breast implants from the breast pocket. It is typically performed when a patient wants to remove their implants without addressing any specific concerns related to the surrounding breast tissue or capsule.

Following the removal of breast implants, changes are expected in breast appearance, including a reduction in volume, diminished upper pole fullness, and decreased cleavage. While most of the natural breast tissue remains unaffected, the supportive structure of the breast may be impacted. To address these effects, Dr Broadhurst often recommends a breast lift (mastopexy) in conjunction with implant removal surgery.

During your consultation, Dr Broadhurst will thoroughly discuss and tailor the options surrounding combined surgeries, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the potential outcomes and considerations.

If your symptoms and examination indicate that you have capsular contracture, Dr Broadhurst will perform the removal of your breast implants with a capsulectomy.

What is “the capsule” of a breast implant?

A capsule is the scar tissue that naturally forms around the breast implant when placed and settles into the body. This occurs when a foreign object, such as a breast implant, a pacemaker, or a joint replacement, is surgically placed in the body. It is recognised as foreign, and the normal physiological response is to create a scar around the object to separate it from the rest of the tissue. This is a normal process, and in the case of a breast implant, it is very important to hold the implant in position.

What is “capsular contracture” in breast implants?

Normally, the capsule will remain thin and pliable, and you will be unaware of its presence. However, occasionally, the capsule can become thicker, causing it to contract – this is called capsular contracture.

The first sign of capsular contracture is when the breast implants begin to feel slightly firm. As the condition progresses, the implant shape can become distorted and feel very firm, and in advanced cases, it can become painful. If capsular contracture occurs, a surgeon may recommend a capsulectomy.

Removal of Breast Implants + Partial Capsulectomy

Breast implant removal, coupled with partial capsulectomy, aims to address concerns related to breast implants by carefully extracting both the implants and specific portions of the capsule. Partial capsulectomy allows for the removal of capsule segments while preserving part of the capsule structure.

By retaining most of the capsule, the surgical technique aims to address specific issues and maintain the natural structure surrounding the implants.

Removal of Implants + En bloc (Total) Capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy is usually performed when there are complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. En bloc capsulectomy aims to address these complications by removing the entire capsule.

Dr Broadhurst carefully dissects the scar tissue, taking care to remove it entirely while preventing damage to the surrounding breast tissue.

En bloc capsulectomy is a more complex surgical technique used when there is a suspicion of breast implant illness. Its purpose is to remove the implants and the surrounding capsule in one intact piece. This procedure involves removing both the implant and the entire surrounding capsule as a single unit without cutting or disrupting the capsule. En bloc capsulectomy aims to minimise the risk of potential contamination or leakage of silicone gel or any other material into the body.


Take the first steps toward treating symptoms of breast implant illness

Consulting with a trusted professional, like Dr Andrew Broadhurst, who specialises in breast implant removal, can provide valuable insights and personalised recommendations.

Dr Broadhurst’s expertise and commitment to patient care make him a trusted resource for those considering breast implant removal as a potential solution to their symptoms.

Although there is no definitive test for breast implant-associated illness, there are many patients who benefit from the removal of their breast implants, reporting a significant improvement and dissipation of symptoms in as little as three days following surgery.

Remember, your health matters, and seeking professional advice is a crucial step towards finding the peace of mind and the quality of life you deserve.

See previous results of breast implant removal and replacement patients of Dr Andrew Broadhurst