What is Breast Implant Illness

What is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness encompasses a variety of symptoms that can appear at any time after breast implant surgery, from immediately post-implantation to many years later. The symptoms reported by patients include, but are not limited to, fatigue, memory and concentration problems (often referred to as "brain fog"), joint and muscle pain, hair loss, weight changes, and anxiety or depression. These symptoms have been observed with all types of breast implants, regardless of their filling, shape, or surface characteristics.

The exact cause of BII remains unclear, and it is not formally recognized as a medical diagnosis. Consequently, there are no specific tests or standardized criteria to define or diagnose BII. Research is being conducted to better understand the potential association between breast implants and these systemic symptoms.
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Reported Cases and Data

According to the FDA's review of the medical device report (MDR) database from January 1, 2008, to June 30, 2023, a total of 9,458 reports related to systemic symptoms in women with breast implants were identified. Of these reports, 76% provided information sufficient to determine the time from implantation to the onset of symptoms, with an average onset time of 5.4 years. The average age of patients in these reports was 42.4 years, with a range of 9 to 99 years.

Notably, 3,861 reports (40.8%) indicated that the patient underwent explantation (removal of the breast implants) after the onset of symptoms. Among these, 658 reports noted an improvement in symptoms post-explant, while 94 reported no improvement or worsening symptoms.
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Example Cases of People with Breast Implant Illness

A study published in 2022 detailed several cases of women who experienced significant improvement in their symptoms following the removal of their breast implants through a procedure known as en-bloc resection. This procedure involves removing the implant and the surrounding capsule of scar tissue in one piece.

The study highlighted the following cases:

Case 1: A 49-year-old female experienced symptoms such as nonspecific chest pain, fatigue, tinnitus, headaches, dizziness, and vision changes three years after her saline breast augmentation. Following en-bloc resection, she reported complete resolution of symptoms, including improved skin complexion and energy levels.

Case 2: A 50-year-old female developed inflamed joints, chronic dizziness, brain fog, dyspnea, and panic attacks two years after her saline breast augmentation. Post-explantation, she noticed rapid improvement in vision changes and facial complexion, with continued decrease in joint pain.

Case 3: A 40-year-old female with silicone implants experienced fatigue, changes in menses, depression, and panic attacks one month after implantation. Post-explantation, she reported cessation of panic attacks, numbness, headaches, and improved skin tone and eye clarity.

These cases underscore the potential benefits of implant removal for some women experiencing BII symptoms, although more research is needed to establish standardized treatment guidelines.

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Celebrities have reported Breast Implant related symptoms

Several high-profile celebrities have come forward to share their experiences with Breast Implant Illness (BII), helping to raise awareness about this condition and its potential impact on health.

A few celebs are listed below, and we've included many more famous people with Breast Implant Illness in a follow up article (here)

Chrissy Teigen

Model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen is one of the most well-known figures to speak out about her struggles with breast implants. Teigen, known for her candidness and transparency, announced her decision to remove her breast implants due to health concerns. She shared her journey on social media, detailing how her implants had negatively affected her well-being and contributed to various symptoms. Her openness has helped bring significant attention to BII and encouraged many women to consider their health when making decisions about cosmetic surgery.

Gisele Bündchen

Supermodel Gisele Bündchen also publicly discussed her decision to remove her breast implants. Bündchen, who initially got implants to enhance her figure, later experienced health issues she believed were linked to the implants. After undergoing explant surgery, she reported feeling healthier and more in tune with her body. Bündchen's story highlights the importance of prioritizing health and listening to one’s body, even in the face of societal pressures related to appearance.

Danica Patrick

Former professional race car driver Danica Patrick shared her battle with BII, revealing how the implants affected her health over time. Patrick noticed a series of alarming health issues, including weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, and deteriorating hair health. Determined to find the root cause, she underwent numerous tests, which led her to believe her breast implants were the culprits. Post-removal, Patrick has been vocal about her improved health and the importance of listening to one's body, adding a critical voice to the ongoing conversation about BII.

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Symptoms Associated with Breast Implant Illness

The FDA's analysis identified the most common systemic symptoms reported by women with breast implants. These include:

1. Fatigue - 42.1%
2. Joint pain - 30.5%
3. Anxiety - 23%
4. Brain fog - 22.9%
5. Autoimmune diseases - 21.1%
6. Hair loss - 20.1%
7. Depression - 17.3%
8. Rash - 16.7%
9. Headache - 16.1%
10. Weight changes (loss, gain, other) - 15.5%

Diseases Associated with Breast Implant Illness

• Acid reflux
• Adrenal issues
• Allergy and allergies
• Arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, Sjogren's syndrome)
• Brain fog
• Chronic fatigue
• Connective tissue disorders (e.g. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)
• Depression and anxiety
• Dry eyes, hair, and skin
• Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., GERD, leaky gut)
• Headaches and migraines
• Hormonal imbalances
• Inflammation
• Joint and muscle pain
• Mast Cell Activation Syndrome
• Memory loss
• Panic attacks
• Rash and skin issues
• Sinus problems
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight changes

The FDA continues to monitor and analyze MDRs to provide updates as warranted. It is essential for patients experiencing these symptoms to consult healthcare providers to explore potential causes and appropriate treatments.

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FAQs about Breast Implant Illness

Why is Breast Implant Illness controversial?

Breast Implant Illness is controversial for several reasons:

1. Lack of Formal Recognition: BII is not officially recognized as a distinct medical diagnosis by major health organizations, such as the FDA or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This lack of formal recognition makes it challenging to develop standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols.
2. Variety of Symptoms: The symptoms associated with BII are diverse and nonspecific, including fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and anxiety. These symptoms overlap with many other medical conditions, complicating the identification and diagnosis of BII.
3. Limited Scientific Evidence: While many patients report symptom improvement after implant removal, the scientific evidence linking breast implants directly to these systemic symptoms is still limited and primarily observational. More rigorous, controlled studies are needed to establish a clear causal relationship.
4. Bias and Reporting Issues: The FDA's adverse event reporting system, which collects data on BII, has significant limitations, including incomplete, inaccurate, or biased data. This can affect the reliability of the data and hinder a comprehensive understanding of BII.
5. Conflicting Interests: The topic is further complicated by conflicting interests between patient advocacy groups, medical professionals, and the breast implant industry, which can influence public perception and research funding.
6. Historical Context: Breast implants have a history of controversy, including past issues with silicone implants and their safety. This historical context adds to the current debate, making it a sensitive and highly scrutinized topic.

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Is Breast Implant Illness related to Mast Cell Activation?

There is some evidence suggesting a potential link between Breast Implant Illness (BII) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). MCAS is a condition where mast cells release too many chemical mediators, causing a range of chronic symptoms. Some patients with BII report symptoms that overlap with those of MCAS, such as allergic reactions, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues. However, definitive research establishing a direct causal relationship between BII and MCAS is still lacking.

Is Breast Implant Illness related to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders that can cause joint hypermobility, skin that can be stretched more than usual, and a tendency to bruise easily. There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that some patients with BII also have EDS, potentially due to the connective tissue-related nature of both conditions. However, scientific studies specifically linking BII to EDS are not conclusive, and more research is needed to understand any possible connections.

Is Breast Implant Illness related to POTS?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition that affects circulation (blood flow), characterized by the body's inability to properly regulate blood pressure and blood flow. Some patients with BII report symptoms similar to those of POTS, such as dizziness, palpitations, and fatigue. While there are anecdotal reports of patients experiencing both BII and POTS, a direct causal relationship has not been scientifically established. More research is necessary to understand if there is a significant connection.

References

"Breast Implant Illness: Medical Device Reports for Systemic Symptoms in Women with Breast Implants." U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 30 June 2023, www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/medical-device-reports-systemic-symptoms-women-breast-implants.

Habib, Peter M., et al. "Breast Implant Illness: A Case Series." Cureus, vol. 14, no. 3, 31 Mar. 2022, doi:10.7759/cureus.23680. PMCID: PMC9060741.

Maijers, M.C., deBlok, C.J.M., and Niessen, F.B. "Women with Silicone Breast Implants and Unexplained Systemic Symptoms: A Descriptive Cohort Study." Neth J Med, vol. 71, 2013, pp. 534-540. www.njmonline.nl/getpdf.php?id=1392.