For Breast Implant Illness, what removal is best?

Question

Going to have my implants removed due to breast implant Illness. What procedure is best? Has anyone had relief of symptoms with ONLY removal of implant and leaving the capsule behind?

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello, 
And thank you for the question.
Breast implant illness (BII) is a term that is used to describe a wide range of symptoms that can develop after undergoing reconstruction or cosmetic augmentation with breast implants. They include, but are not limited to, fatigue, problems with memory or concentration (“brain fog”), joint and muscle pain, hair loss, weight changes and anxiety/depression. 
Although some women report improvement or resolution of symptoms following removal of the implants (with or without en bloc capsulectomy), the cause of the symptoms and the degree to which they may be related to the implants are unclear at the current time. Research continues to be performed to better understand any potential association with breast implants. 
Currently, however, BII is not recognized as a formal medical diagnosis and there are no specific tests or recognized criteria to define or characterize it.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast implant removal to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations.
Best, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. It is recommended to have the capsules removed with implant if you are having symptoms related to BII I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD 
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
Chicago 
South Barrington 
Oakbrook 
Orland Park

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If your implants are ruptured, or if your capsules are thick or causing issues they should be removed along with your implants.  If this is not the case and your capsules are thin, it is an option to have them removed or leave them behind.  I encourage you to speak to your surgeon about your concerns to determine what is best for you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear christinem04,
if your capsules are thick then they should be removed together with implants. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

For Breast Implant Illness, what removal is best?

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Answer: Breast Implant Illness

Answer: Breast Implant Illness

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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For Breast Implant Illness, what removal is best?

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast Implant Illness

Answer: Breast Implant Illness

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.