Experiencing unresolved health symptoms is a frustrating and challenging problem to have. For some individuals, certain symptoms occurring together may point to breast implant illness, especially if other possible causes have been ruled out.
At Soler Cosmetic Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, we specialize in understanding and addressing breast implant illness. With our expertise and commitment, we bring clarity and potential solutions to those grappling with this complex health concern. With the right knowledge and care, you can focus on regaining your health.
What Is Breast Implant Illness?
Breast implant illness is a term used to describe a wide range of symptoms that some individuals experience after undergoing breast implant surgery. While BII is not officially recognized as a medical condition, it is increasingly acknowledged within the medical community. Breast implant illness treatment typically involves removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue which can result in a cessation of symptoms.
What Are the Signs of Breast Implant Illness?
Signs of breast implant illness can vary from person to person which can make it more difficult to identify. Some of the more commonly reported breast implant illness symptoms include fatigue, cognitive dysfunction (like memory loss or difficulty concentrating), muscle and joint pain, hair loss, dry skin and eyes, and even insomnia.
Breast implant illness symptoms may resemble those of other conditions such as autoimmune diseases, adding another layer of difficulty to its identification. If you are experiencing any health changes after receiving breast implants, it may be worth exploring the possibility of this illness.
What Causes Breast Implant Illness?
The exact cause of breast implant illness remains unknown. However, some medical professionals believe that it may be the body’s immune response to the implants, leading to an array of symptoms. Others suggest that it could be due to a type of chronic bacterial infection associated with the implants, or even a rare reaction to the materials used in the implants themselves.
Though these theories provide potential explanations, there is still a lot to be learned about the precise mechanisms of breast implant illness. With the growing recognition of this condition, more research is being conducted to gain a deeper understanding, leading to improved diagnosis.
Diagnosing Breast Implant Illness
Diagnosing breast implant illness can be complex, primarily because it is not yet officially recognized as a distinct medical condition. Because of this, there are no specific diagnostic tests available that can definitively identify this illness. Instead, medical professionals often rely on a process of elimination, ruling out other potential causes of symptoms and drawing conclusions based on an individual’s reported symptoms, health history, and the timing of symptom onset in relation to implant surgery.
Treatment for Breast Implant Illness
While some supportive therapies can help provide breast implant illness treatment, the most effective method of treatment is typically the removal of the breast implants, a procedure known as explantation.
This decision should be made in close consultation with a knowledgeable healthcare provider and then the surgery itself should always be performed by a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing this particular procedure.
What to Expect From Your Breast Implant Illness Treatment
Ruling Out Other Causes
To begin the process of addressing breast implant illness, it’s important to first rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. This ensures that we don’t overlook any other health concerns that may require attention. It involves a detailed health assessment, possibly including various diagnostic tests, and a thorough review of your medical history.
Deciding on the Method of Treatment
Once other causes have been ruled out, we move on to discussing the most suitable method of treatment. Your surgeon will discuss with you whether just the implant or the implant and the surrounding scar tissue will be removed. We will always talk about the full extent of your surgery including how much scar tissue will be removed.
Breast Implant Removal
Before your surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia for your comfort and safety. Then we will carefully remove the implants and any surrounding scar tissue as discussed. The incisions will be closed, with an emphasis on causing the least aesthetic impact.
Recovery From Surgery
After surgery, you will have incisions that are closed with stitches, skin adhesive, or surgical tape. A bandage or dressing will be applied over the incisions for protection and to promote healing. You may also have drains in place to help remove excess fluid. These are usually removed within a week or two post-surgery.
Discomfort and swelling are expected after surgery, but they are generally manageable with medications. It’s important to follow all postoperative care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This includes wound care, taking prescribed medications, and guidelines for physical activity.
Post Procedure Support
After the procedure, we provide postoperative support to ensure your recovery goes as smoothly as possible. This will include follow-up appointments to ensure that the healing process is going well. For some women, it may also include other procedures such as a breast lift or fat transfer to restructure and reshape the breasts.
Consultations for Breast Implant Illness Treatment
If you are dealing with breast implant illness, it can be difficult to find a doctor that will validate your concerns and make a treatment plan to address these symptoms. At Soler Cosmetic Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, we have the care, compassion, and experience needed to deal with these complex cases. To begin the process, reach out to us at (813) 703-6216 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation – we’re here to support your health needs every step of the way.