Does my health history make me more at risk of implant complications? Any considerations?

Question

I am a distance runner but I do have asthma that is only allergy induced. If no triggers, no issues, but I can quickly become very ill if exposed to mold, mildew, dust, air pollution, cleaning chemicals, pollen, animal dander etc. While most people are fine, my immune system reacts right away and my lungs constrict. I'm wondering if this makes me more likely to have Breast Implant Illness, other complications, or if special considerations? Can either Saline or Silicone cause mold growth?

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
With any insertion of a foreign body such as an implant, there is always risk. However, the current research shows that BII is more likely linked to autoimmune disorders, not asthma. I recommend speaking with your plastic surgeon about your concerns and to discuss the current literature.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nicolesbox,
there have been numerous studies on the safety and efficacy of silicone breast implants. The FDA has approved them to be safe and breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgical procedure performed in the United States every year. Implants are much different than they used to be with rigorous testing and cohesive gel. I can't tell you how happy my breast augmentation patients have been with their implants.
I would recommend a consult with a plastic surgeon to go over all of your concerns. Saline implants are also a perfectly good option if you are still concerned and are less expensive.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Nicole,
Asthma is not a contraindication for breast augmentation.  There is no literature or medical evidence linking asthma to Bii.  
Mold rarely every grows in saline implants and even more rarely in silicone implants.  
I do discuss the very low potential for immune response reactions in breast augmentation patients.

You may go on Mentor.com to review information on breast implant complications.
Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Asthma, if well controlled, should not increase your risks. If you choose to have implants, bring your inhaler to the surgery center. Mold is less likely in silicone implants and is uncommon.  If you have autoimmune issues or many allergies, then you may be slightly more risk to develop breast illness with implants.  New studies show that most women with breast implant illness have heavy metals, often from tattoos and hair dyes, in the capsules removed.

Does my health history make me more at risk of implant complications? Any considerations?

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Does my health history make me more at risk of implant complications? Any considerations?

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Answer: Risks

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