Do breast implants cause shortness of breath?

Question

Hello, I have had my saline breast implants for 14 years and one of my breast is slanted, little bigger and a droopier than the other breast. I have had shortness or breath for years since my implants. I have concerns that maybe fungus or mold may be located near the implants. Based on my symptoms and concerns do you see this as a possibility and consideration for an EnBloc/Total Capsulectomy explant with restructuring?

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Unlikely that they would cause you such shortness of breath.  The implant selection should be based on a combination of your desired size, soft tissue dynamics, breast base diameter and skin elasticity.  I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ramonaholman,I understand your concern. It is unlikely that your shortness of breath is caused by your breast implants. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your doctor for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,Shortness of breath can be caused by many things, and it's best to get a full work-up from your family doctor first. It's unlikely that mold or any sort of infection would be causing this as that isn't typical. However, you've had implants for quite some time and if you have any concerns about them and/or aren't happy with the appearance, it's worth visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your options. It's your body, and if you want your implants removed, you should pursue that. Even if there is found to be no problem with your implants, it may give you peace of mind. All the best in your journey,Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It would be uncommon for your breast implants to cause shortness of breath for 14 years.  I recommend visiting with your primary care doctor for an evaluation.  Further testing may be needed.  If however you would like to have your implants removed, you can proceed with this at any time.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the shortness of breath you are experiencing. Best to start with your primary care physician for evaluation; he/she may refer you to a pulmonologist. The breast implants are not the culprit. Best wishes.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

No, the breast implants are not a cause of shortness of breath and the mold or fungus issue is a myth. but you do need to see a pulmonary specialist for an evaluation.

Do breast implants cause shortness of breath?

Answers (6)

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