From the Guidelines
Breast implant syndrome, also known as breast implant illness (BII), is a condition that requires immediate medical attention, and the most effective treatment is implant removal, particularly when the entire capsule surrounding the implant is also removed (total capsulectomy), as it has been shown to improve symptoms in some women 1.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Breast implant illness (BII) is a collection of symptoms some women report experiencing after getting breast implants, though it's not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis. Symptoms commonly include:
- Fatigue
- Joint and muscle pain
- Memory and concentration problems
- Hair loss
- Skin rashes
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Autoimmune-like manifestations If you're experiencing these symptoms and have breast implants, consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your condition thoroughly.
Treatment and Management
There is no specific medication regimen for BII, as treatment focuses on addressing individual symptoms. Before considering implant removal, get a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. The exact mechanism behind BII isn't fully understood, but theories include immune system reactions to the implant materials, silicone leakage, or biofilm formation. While many plastic surgeons and some patients report significant improvement after explantation, research on BII is still evolving, and experiences vary widely among individuals 1.
Risks and Complications
Breast implants are associated with risks, including implant rupture, breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), and systemic symptoms. The FDA has announced a possible association between breast implants and ALCL, and the World Health Organization has provisionally classified BIA-ALCL as a newly recognized entity 1. Most reported cases of BIA-ALCL are associated with textured implants, and early recognition is critical for effective treatment. It is essential to follow the FDA's recommendations for breast implant evaluation, including an initial ultrasound (US) or MRI 5 to 6 years after initial implant surgery and then every 2 to 3 years thereafter, to monitor for potential complications and improve outcomes 1.
From the Research
Breast Implant Syndrome
- Breast implant syndrome, also known as breast implant illness (BII), is a condition characterized by symptoms such as chronic fatigue, arthralgias, myalgias, pyrexia, sicca, and cognitive dysfunction in patients with silicone breast implants (SBI) 2.
- The symptoms of BII are similar to those of autoimmune/autoinflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) due to silicone incompatibility syndrome 2.
- Studies have shown that removal of the breast implants can resolve the symptoms in most women, and removal is considered the most effective treatment 2, 3.
Causes and Risk Factors
- The exact cause of BII is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the immune system's reaction to the silicone implants 2.
- The use of silicone breast implants is a risk factor for developing BII, and patients who have had implants for cosmetic reasons are more likely to experience symptoms 3.
- Other risk factors may include the type of implant used, the surgical technique, and individual patient factors such as immune system function 2.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis of BII is based on patient symptoms and medical history, and may involve ruling out other potential causes of symptoms 3.
- Treatment of BII typically involves removal of the breast implants, which can provide significant relief from symptoms in most patients 2, 3.
- In some cases, patients may experience complications such as infection or toxic shock syndrome after breast implant insertion, which require prompt medical attention 4.
Research and Evidence
- Studies have shown that BII is a real condition that can have significant effects on patients' quality of life 2, 3.
- However, some studies have questioned the existence of BII as a distinct medical condition, citing a lack of concrete evidence 5.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the causes and risk factors of BII, as well as the most effective treatments 2, 5.