Breast augmentation has long been a popular cosmetic procedure, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence. However, the focus on the aesthetic benefits often overshadows potential health risks associated with breast implants. In recent years, many women have reported a range of debilitating symptoms linked to their breast implants, a condition now known as Breast Implant Illness (BII). This article lists the BII warning signs that women should be aware of.
What Is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
Breast Implant Illness refers to a collection of symptoms that some women experience after undergoing breast augmentation surgery. These symptoms can vary greatly in severity and duration, affecting both physical and mental well-being. Historically, women reporting such symptoms were often dismissed by medical professionals, with their concerns attributed to other factors or psychological concerns. However, over the years, mounting evidence and increased awareness have led to a shift in the medical community’s understanding of BII.
A Brief History of BII
The history of BII dates back decades, with the first reports of symptoms emerging shortly after breast augmentation procedures became widespread. In the past, many women who experienced symptoms were often dismissed or diagnosed with unrelated conditions. This dismissal led to years of suffering for countless women who felt unheard and misunderstood. It was only in recent years that these women found solace in the growing community of individuals with BII and their shared experiences.
In recent years, even the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has started acknowledging the issue. In 2019, the FDA released a statement acknowledging that some individuals with breast implants experienced systemic symptoms that could not be attributed to other causes. While the FDA’s statement did not definitively establish a causal relationship between breast implants and the reported symptoms, it marked a significant milestone in acknowledging the experiences of countless women who had long felt unheard.
Warning Signs of Breast Implant Illness
BII can manifest in a wide range of symptoms, affecting various parts of the body. It’s important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean an individual has BII, but recognizing a cluster of these symptoms might warrant further investigation. Here are some of the warning signs associated with BII.
Cognitive Dysfunction:
- Brain fog
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Word retrieval issues
Physical Symptoms:
- Fatigue or chronic fatigue
- Muscle aches, pain, and weakness
- Joint pain and soreness
Skin and Hair Issues:
- Hair loss
- Dry skin, eyes, mouth, and hair
- Skin rashes
- Skin freckling or pigmentation changes
Weight and Metabolic Changes:
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Easy bruising and slow wound healing
Autoimmune-Like Symptoms:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Raynaud’s syndrome
- Graves disease
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Scleroderma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
Hormonal and Reproductive Symptoms:
- Estrogen/progesterone imbalance
- Diminishing hormones
- Early menopause
Other Symptoms:
- Night sweats
- Insomnia
- Low libido
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes
- Tingling or numbness in extremities
- Temperature intolerance
Please be aware that this list of symptoms is not exhaustive. Breast Implant Illness (BII) can manifest in various ways, and individuals may experience additional symptoms not listed here. You can go through our BII Checklist for a more thorough overview of the potential symptoms, following which you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan to discuss your options.
Seeking Help and Moving Forward
For individuals who suspect they may be experiencing Breast Implant Illness, it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional who is knowledgeable about the condition. Dr. Shaher Khan, a specialist in Breast Implant Illness and breast implant removal, has dedicated his expertise to helping women navigate this complex issue. If you’re experiencing a combination of symptoms that align with those associated with BII, seeking a thorough evaluation and discussing potential options for breast implant removal or other treatments can be an important step forward.
