I have had my saline breast implants since 2004. Is it possible I am experiencing some sort of toxicity from the implants?

It sounds like you may have capsular contracture developing around the implant.  This can pull on the nerves and cause pain in the chest wall with radiating to other areas at times.  As far as the medicinal smell, that I have no idea.  If your implants were put in sterile and filled with sterile saline, then there is no reason why they would have anything in them at all.  I would follow up with a plastic surgeon, but certainly if it gets worse I would go to the emergency room.  I hope this helps.

In general there are no studies linking implants to the symptoms you are having. You should visit your general medicine doctor who can help refer you to specialists to evaluate your symptoms. Based on your history, a Ct scan of your brain would be appropriate, basic screening labwork and an in depth review of stressors in your life both current and chronic. If all tests come back normal simply removing your implants would be a very easy way for you to convince yourself that they are not the cause (they aren't). Best of luck and hope you have a speedy resolution of your symptoms! 

Dear Jgarci39,

The symptoms you describe could be anything from a nerve entrapment to cardiac disease.  You are going to need a full history and physical with a surgeon to determine the cause of your issues.  There have been no reports of any of these type symptoms from saline implants to my knowledge.  I hope this has been helpful.
Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

Thank you for your question.  I am sorry to hear about your symptoms.  It is possible that you could have a capsular contracture causing pain, but I would be concerned about some underlying cardiac (heart) issues with the radiating pain to your ear and arm.  I would suggest that you see a physician ASAP to rule out a heart issue.  

There have been no studies that show connection to toxicity caused by breast implants. From what you describe, the sensations may be nerve related. You have had the implants for 14 years though, and it would be more likely that if it were related to your implants, the symptoms would have appeared years sooner. It is most likely an unrelated cause, however your symptoms sound important enough to have checked out as soon as possible. If you feel they are severe, or worsen, don't take chances and go to the hospital.