Breast implants, both silicone and saline, have been used safely for decades. Most patients have no health concerns or problems associated with their breast implants, and complications are rare. However, there are a group of symptoms that some people with breast implants have experienced. This group of symptoms has been termed “breast implant illness,” or BII. At Vantage Plastic Surgery, our double board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Aleksandr Shteynberg, offers options for breast implant illness treatment at our clinics in NYC.
Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII)
There are no tests to diagnose breast implant illness, as it is not yet recognized as a disease by the medical community. Instead, the symptoms are the main indicators that a person may have this disorder. Symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Breast pain or burning sensation
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Cognitive issues – memory or concentration
- Insomnia
- Rashes
- Depression or anxiety
The symptoms are wide-ranging and may or may not be caused by breast implants. The cause of BII is not known, but there are theories that some individuals may have an autoimmune response to the implants.
Treatment for BII
The first step in treatment for suspected breast implant illness is ensuring the implants are in good condition. Dr. Shteynberg can perform an exam and imaging to check breast implants for any ruptures or leakage and whether there are signs of capsular contracture. If the implants are damaged or there is capsular contracture, treatment is available for these conditions, which can include removal of the breast implants.
Some patients with suspected BII may decide to have their breast implants removed, although studies have been inconclusive on whether removal improves symptoms. If you decide you want a breast implant removal, or explant, Dr. Shteynberg can discuss your options and cosmetic reshaping of the breasts after removal.
There is still much that is not known about breast implant illness, including the causes and best treatments. If you suspect you may have breast implant illness, treatment options are available at Vantage Plastic Surgery. Contact our office to schedule a BII consultation with Dr. Shteynberg to discuss your treatment options.
