What isBreast Implant Illness?

Wide range of symptoms that can be debilitating

Breast Implant Illness refers to a wide range of symptoms that develop after getting implants. Some patients may notice symptoms soon after surgery, while others do not experience any symptoms for years after receiving their implants. Although the vast majority of patients do very well after breast implant surgery and experience no side effects, a small subset of patients may experience the following symptoms:

Chronic fatigue and headaches
Difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
Trouble sleeping
Depression and anxiety
Persistent joint and muscle pain

Breathing difficulties
Digestive issues
Dry mouth and eyes
Hair loss
Skin rashes

What causes BII?

What we know so far

While much progress has been made in understanding the negative effects of BII, more research is still needed. Experts have yet to make a strong causal connection as to the causes of BII. The prevailing theory is that it is an “autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome,” where the immune system is reacting to the implants.

Am I at risk for BII?

FDA identifies high-risk groups. The new checklist from the FDA identifies groups of patients who are at a higher risk for developing BII after surgery. This includes breast cancer patients who have had or plan to have chemotherapy or radiation. Additionally, patients with diabetes or lupus are also at a higher risk of developing BII. The FDA warns that patients with active infections and women who are pregnant or are nursing should not undergo breast implant surgery. Smokers are also advised not to undergo surgery.

Do you think you might have Breast Implant Illness?

Don’t suffer in silence. If you suspect you have BII, don’t wait any longer to schedule a consultation at PURE Cosmetic Center, as symptoms of BII can be misunderstood. During your consultation regarding breast implant illness Chelmsford plastic surgeon Dr. David Lee will review your medical history and develop a surgical plan with your specific needs in mind to give you results that feel and look good.

Chelmsford Plastic Surgeon, Dr. David Lee

What are the treatment options for BII?

You can only look your best if you feel your best

Many patients report alleviation of symptoms following breast implant removal. While this treatment is not a guarantee that symptoms will go away, it is the most common treatment for persistent BII symptoms. PURE Cosmetic Center offers different procedures to help you feel better while preserving the look you want, even after the implants are removed.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

During this procedure, Dr. Lee removes your implant and scar tissue together, preventing any leakage from the implants into the body.

En Bloc with Fat Grafting

Fat Grafting is quickly becoming an alternative for many who still want to maintain volume after the implants are gone. This combination surgery uses liposuction to remove fat from a donor location on your body, processes the fat, and uses it to replace the volume lost from the implant removal. Fat Grafting cannot replace the entire volume of the implant, but it can create beautiful, symmetrical breasts with more volume than en bloc capsulectomy alone.

En Bloc with Breast Lift

After removing the breast implant, Dr. Lee will reshape the breast tissue and skin with a breast lift. This procedure will give you a lifted look, ensuring that your breasts are symmetrical and in a more youthful position. This can be helpful to correct sagging or ptotic breasts where the nipples are pointed towards the ground.

En Bloc with Breast Lift and Fat Grafting

The main reasons for getting breast implants are usually to increase volume and prevent sagging. Using a combination of both a breast lift and fat grafting, Dr. Lee can add shape, firmness, and size to your breasts. While implants typically have to be replaced every 10-15 years, this combination procedure uses your body’s own natural tissues and will be less likely to require revisional surgeries over the long term.

Request your consultation

Your beauty is a symphony. Don’t trust it to anyone less than a true performer and a master at his craft. Chelmsford plastic surgeon, Dr. Dave Lee brings the virtuosity of a concert pianist and the artistry of a renowned plastic surgeon to each procedure. Schedule a consultation today to discover why patients across New England are singing the praises of Dr. Lee and his staff at PURE Cosmetic Center.

15 Village Square, Chelmsford, MA 01824

Breast Implant Illness in Chelmsford, MA

FDA releases new guidelines on Breast Implant Illness

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