Monmouth County's Ask the Doctor

What is Breast Implant Illness? By, Lauren Kowlacki Breast Implant Illness, also called BII is one of the hottest topics in plastic surgery today. According to Breast- Cancer.Org, “Breast implant illness (BII) is a term that some women and doctors use to refer to a wide range of symptoms that can develop after undergoing reconstruction or cosmetic augmentation with breast implants. It is also sometimes referred to as autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA). BII can occur with any type of breast implant, including silicone gel-filled, saline-filled, smooth surface, textured surface, round, or teardrop-shaped.” Those with breast implants who report BII often describe numerous symptoms. Some of these symptoms include: • chest pain • chills • chronic pain • depression • hair loss • headaches • rash • hormonal concerns • neurological disturbances • problems sleeping • sensitivity to light and sun • unexplained fatigue • dry eyes and mouth The symptoms can appear any time after implant

surgery — some people develop symptoms immediately, while some develop them years later. A lot of the symp- toms of BII are associated with autoimmune and connec- tive tissue disorders, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma. Some people who have BII also get di- agnosed with a specific autoimmune or connective tissue disorder, but many do not.

Researchers, plastic surgeons and their professional medical organiza- tions, and the FDA are closely monitoring the potential existence of BII. Currently, researchers do not have enough data to confirm that BII is real. The present data seem to suggest that breast implants do not cause BII-like symptoms. According to the FDA, the risks of complications or adverse outcomes due to breast implants is around 1%. A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about their breast im- plants, including concerns regarding their appearance, pain level, or any other symptoms.

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ASK THE DOCTOR

SUMMER 2020