In recent years, the debate surrounding breast implants has intensified as concerns over their health implications have come to the forefront. Breast implants have long been considered a perfectly safe means of enhancing the breasts, but it has become increasingly clear that that’s far from true. Many women with breast implants have suffered from a complex constellation of symptoms for decades while being repeatedly told there’s nothing wrong.
However, it has become clear that breast implants — both saline and silicone — can induce various autoimmune reactions in the host, leading to autoimmune diseases and other concerning symptoms. The prevalence of breast implant illness and other autoimmune diseases is why surgeons like Dr. Shaher Khan absolutely refuse to perform breast augmentations and only offer breast implant removal options.
This article highlights the link between breast implants and autoimmune diseases.
Breast Implant Illness: What Is It?
Breast implant illness (BII) refers to a range of symptoms and health issues reported by women with breast implants. BII is characterized by various symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, and immune system dysregulation. These symptoms often lead to a diminished quality of life for those affected.
The exact causes of BII remain a subject of ongoing research, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. The primary suspected reason for breast implant illness is the body’s response to foreign materials, such as silicone or saline implants, which can trigger inflammation and immune system reactions.
Additionally, some theories suggest biofilm formation, a bacterial or fungal colonization on the implant’s surface, may also play a role in BII. Genetic predisposition, pre-existing autoimmune conditions, and environmental factors can also influence or exacerbate the likelihood of experiencing BII symptoms.
When Your Body Is At War With Itself
One of the most unsettling aspects of breast implant illness (BII) is how it pits the body against itself. The immune system, designed to protect the body, sometimes identifies breast implants as threats. Consequently, it mounts an attack, causing chronic inflammation and a cascade of symptoms. This autoimmune response, characterized by fatigue, joint pain, and other symptoms, can significantly impact an individual’s well-being.
Common Symptoms of BII:
- Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained tiredness that can significantly affect daily life.
- Joint Pain: Pain and discomfort in the joints, often resembling symptoms of arthritis.
- Cognitive Difficulties: Memory problems, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating.
- Immune System Dysregulation: Frequent infections or a weakened immune response.
- Skin Issues: Rashes, hives, or other skin problems.
- Digestive Problems: Issues like bloating, diarrhea, or food sensitivities.
- Muscle Weakness: Loss of muscle strength or muscle pain.
- Breast Symptoms: Changes in breast shape, pain, or discomfort.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in various parts of the body.
- Mood Disturbances: Anxiety, depression, or mood swings.
- Hair and Nail Changes: Thinning hair or brittle nails.
- Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Endocrine Disruptions: Irregular menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalances.
- Respiratory Issues: Shortness of breath or chest discomfort.
- Autoimmune Conditions: Development or worsening of autoimmune disorders.
It’s essential to remember that not everyone with breast implants will experience these symptoms, and their severity can vary widely among individuals. If you suspect you may be suffering from BII, consult Dr. Khan to consider breast implant removal.
Remove the Offending Breast Implant
Currently, there is no clear treatment for breast implant illness because the medical community is still trying to identify its true source. However, according to studies, women report considerable improvements in their symptoms after having their breast implants removed along with complete capsule removal. Dr. Khan offers en bloc capsulectomy to remove the complete breast implant and its surrounding capsule as a single unit. This procedure can dramatically improve symptoms for women suffering from the symptoms of breast implant illness. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan to explore your options.
