What is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast implants are one of the most studied biomedical devices. Breast implants maintain a high safety profile. Dallas plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. David Azouz explains that a small subset of patients who have had breast implants in the past can report symptoms of Breast implant illness. Breast implant illness is also known as BII refers to a cluster of symptoms that can occur after undergoing a breast augmentation. Symptoms of breast implant illness can occur soon after surgery or many years after surgery. Breast implant illness has been reported in patients with both silicone and saline implants.

What causes breast implant illness?

The exact cause to suffer from breast implant illness is not known; however, some patients might be predisposed to having an immune reaction to the materials used to elaborate implants causing them to feel different symptoms of discomfort. Breast implant illness is also more common in patients who have had a breast implant rupture or had older breast implants placed that were not cohesive gel (gummy bear implants). There is also a variety of breast implants that were taken off the market including textured implants, PIP implants (Poly Implant Prothèse), CEREFORM implants and others for which patients are more likely to experience problems.

What are the symptoms of Breast Implant Illness?

The Breast Implant Illness symptoms include:

• Hair loss
• Sleep disturbances
• Memory changes
• Headaches
• Anxiety and depression
• Muscle and joint pain
• Rashes
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Dry eyes and mouth

Breast Implant Illness treatment

If you are experiencing breast implant illness symptoms, the treatment often recommended by Dr Azouz. is removing your breast implants. Many patients have reported that they feel a difference in their overall health within the first few months of their implant removal surgery. Patients usually have the choice of breast implant removal alone or breast implant removal and replacement.

Considering Breast Implant removal?

During your consultation, plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz evaluates your physical condition and examines your breast implants. Dr. Azouz also encourages performing a comprehensive history and exam to rule out other things that might be causing discomfort or pain before considering breast implant removal. If the patient is in good health and still wants breast implant removal, Dr. Azouz provides different surgical options to patients to help maintain some of the breast’s fullness without the implants. The aesthetic results will vary depending on which surgical plan the patient decided is the best option for his/her goals.

Contact Dr. Azouz to evaluate your case

Dallas plastic surgeon is happy to help patients who suffer from breast implant illness and is able to assist patients through in person or virtual consulations. Scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate your case is mandatory. Contact Dr. Azouz office in Dallas by calling (972) 702-8888 and take the first step to recover your health.