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Breast implant illness (BII) is a collection of symptoms believed to develop after a breast augmentation. These symptoms vary widely among women, but the most common include fatigue, pain, depression and anxiety, and changes in weight. [1] Unfortunately, BII is not an officially recognized condition or disorder because medical professionals can not definitively link implants to these symptoms. [2] However, clinical studies, patient testimonials, and online discussions have led doctors to recognize the need for action. Currently, the only solutions are to remove the implants. An explant, or removal, extracts the implant from the breast pocket while replacing the implants with a newer, safer model or with an alternative to synthetic implants can keep a woman’s desired aesthetic consistent.
Dr. Silvia Rotemberg is a compassionate plastic surgeon who can provide patients in the Miami area with a healthy and beautiful breast profile. Schedule your consultation at our office in South Miami by filling out our easy online form or calling (305) 539-7083.
Contents
About Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness (BII) is a perplexing point of discussion in the medical world. Today, breast implants have become safer than ever, thanks to numerous clinical studies and sweeping government regulations. Unfortunately, patients still experience problems. And despite the many consistent symptoms that women endure after a breast augmentation, they can not be conclusively linked to implants. [2] This is a frustrating problem for both patients and medical professionals. Patients may feel they have been misled or abandoned, while doctors are dismayed by the lack of concrete scientific data. [3]
Part of this is due to the overly general set of symptoms that women face. Symptoms like fatigue and anxiety could be caused by their breast implants or a large number of other medical conditions.
Knowing Your Options
If you’ve had breast implants and are experiencing inexplicable changes in health that are preventing you from enjoying life, it is vital to seek medical attention. The symptoms of Breast Implant Illness are similar to those of many other conditions, and it’s important to rule them out. If you’ve become certain that it’s your synthetic implants are to blame, then it’s time to make an appointment with a plastic surgeon to address your concerns and evaluate your options.
Implant Removal
Complete removal of the implant is the most common and best way to relieve symptoms. It is especially beneficial for those who have experienced changes in the shape and feel of the implant. A capsulectomy may be required if the implant’s composition has been affected. This more involved technique removes both the capsule of scar tissue and the implant simultaneously to prevent contact between the damaged implant and breast tissue. [2] Patients that want to avoid the risk of sagging after their implants are removed may choose to have a breast lift performed.
Fat Transfer To Breast
A fat transfer is a perfect solution for patients who no longer want implants but still desire a youthful breast aesthetic. This solution removes the implant and replaces it with fat from areas you’d like to trim down. Fat can be liposuctioned from the abdomen, thighs, arms, or flanks. This fat is purified and injected into the breasts for a natural, youthful look and feel. There is little to no risk of adverse reactions because the procedure uses your body’s own fat cells.
Benefits of a Breast Implant Removal
If you believe you are suffering from Breast Implant Illness, having your breast implants removed or exchanged allows patients to continue a healthy life. It provides multiple medical and aesthetic purposes, including:
- The ability to choose to remove older implants or change to a safer, newer implant
- Achieve more natural breast contours
- Relief from the symptoms commonly linked with Breast Implant Illness
- Eases aches or muscle strain caused by larger breasts
- Supports your physical and mental health
Candidates
Patients experiencing uncomfortable symptoms that they believe may be caused by their implants should consider a removal or exchange procedure. Aside from these symptoms, patients wishing to undergo breast surgery should be in good overall health. Patients seeking treatment should go in with a positive mindset and have realistic expectations of what these procedures do for their health. The best way to understand this and your options is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rotemberg. Call us at (305) 539-7083 to schedule an informational session.
Personal Consultation with Dr. Rotemberg
Dr. Silvia Rotemberg created her private practice to address her patient’s cosmetic needs in a caring and compassionate manner. She understands there is no singular solution for all patients. That is why she takes pride in offering procedures that will be tailored to meet your individual aesthetic goals.
First, we’ll gather information about your health, breast surgical history, and medication intake, if any. This time is dedicated to addressing your symptoms and concerns, and offers you the opportunity to have a compassionate discussion about Breast Implant Illness with an experienced, female medical professional. Dr. Rotemberg will work with you to develop your customized treatment plan. If she feels a removal or replacement surgery is the best course of action, then we’ll explain the process step-by-step so you can understand the procedure, preparation process, and recovery journey. Finally, we’ll end the meeting by scheduling your appointment date and time.
Make time for a consultation and live your life comfortably. Book one online or call the office at (305) 539-7083.
Preparing Yourself for Breast Surgery
Our office will provide a personalized list of items to complete before surgery. Devote some time to make sure you can prepare properly before your surgery. They include:
- Temporarily stop smoking cigarettes or any other nicotine consumption until you’re fully healed.
- Patients should pick up the prescribed medications at your local pharmacy in advance of their procedure. Patients will also need to stop taking certain other medications. This includes NSAIDs and blood thinners because they may cause unnecessary bleeding. Be sure to give our office a current list of the medicines you take.
- Arrange to have someone drive you home after your surgery is finished and stay with you. You’ll still be experiencing the remaining effects of anesthesia.
- Talk with your employer and arrange to take 1-2 weeks to recover from your surgery.
Procedure
Breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Once it has taken effect, Dr. Rotemberg will carry out your breast surgery as discussed during your consultation. Regardless of the procedure you’ve selected, the existing incision scars from your original augmentation surgery will be used to make the required incisions and remove the old implants. If you’re replacing your implants, then Dr. Rotemberg will place newer ones securely in the breast pocket.
Patients choosing a fat transfer will have a different experience. Once the implant is removed, Dr. Rotemberg will perform liposuction using a small cannula that is inserted under the skin to remove excess fat. The harvested fat is then processed and injected into the breast tissue.
Recovery
In the first two weeks of your recovery, you may feel swelling, tenderness, bruising, and discoloration. You can curb these symptoms with medication ordered by Dr. Rotemberg. After two weeks, you should carry on with your regular daily routine (including work) with minimal problems. Wait another six weeks to continue strenuous physical activities such as exercise. Patients should rest on their backs throughout the recovery stage until they are fully healed.
Results
Many patients feel relieved after surgery. Regardless of the treatment method, you will see a reduction or complete elimination of ailments that have affected your well-being. Not only that, you will have a restored breast aesthetic that is symmetrical to your body.
Cost of a Breast Implant Procedure in Miami, FL
The final cost for your surgery is as unique as your needs. Our office offers various financial payment options with favorable interest rates. Apply now to prequalify. Be sure to check out our occasional specials to take advantage of huge savings.
FAQ
What is breast implant illness (BII)?
Women with breast implant illness identify symptoms related to their breast implants. Some patients may develop symptoms a few months after their initial augmentation or later on in life. Common signs are:
Fatigue
Chest pain
Headaches
Chills
Brain fog
Depression
How serious is breast implant illness?
Unfortunately, breast implant illness (BII) is not an officially diagnosed condition or disorder. Medical professionals are still in disagreement about breast implants and their impact on your health. Regardless, BII causes discomfort. If you feel your implants are causing significant strain in your life, then please reach out to your primary care physician as soon as possible. Your provider may recommend that removal or exchange occur.
References
- Dijkman, H. B. P. M., Slaats, I., & Bult, P. (2021). Assessment of Silicone Particle Migration Among Women Undergoing Removal or Revision of Silicone Breast Implants in the Netherlands. JAMA Network Open, 4(9), e2125381. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.25381
- Lee, M., Ponraja, G., McLeod, K., & Chong, S. (2020). Breast Implant Illness: A Biofilm Hypothesis. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000002755
- Mcguire, P. A., Haws, M. J., & Nahai, F. (2019). Breast Implant Illness: How Can We Help? Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 39(11), 1260–1263. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjz227