Plastic surgeons all over the country are beginning to see a rise in the number of women seeking to have their breast implants removed due to health concerns. Years after undergoing breast implant procedures, some women are reporting autoimmune disorders, hormonal imbalances and gastrointestinal problems, which are affecting their quality of life. Although research doesn’t support a link between breast implants and the reported health concerns, some women are choosing to have their implants removed.
Such was the case with Amy, who had a successful breast implant surgery in 2002. Some years after her initial surgery Amy began to feel unwell and was diagnosed with hormonal issues and an autoimmune disorder. After a thorough consultation with West Palm Beach plastic surgeon, Dr. Fredric Barr, Amy knew she had all of the information she needed to choose what would be best for her own personal health. She decided to remove her implants and have a breast lift. After her explantation surgery, she is extremely happy with how she looks and feels.
Watch Amy's Story
Known Risks of Breast Implants
In 2006, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) lifted their ban on silicone gel-filled implants, approving the newly created more cohesive gel implants. The association between breast implants and hormonal, thyroid, or other autoimmune type illnesses has yet to be definitively and scientifically established. There is currently no widely accepted FDA approved test for “silicone allergy.”
Potential risks of breast implants are typically those that are commonly associated with undergoing any surgery, such as scarring, pain and infection.
According to the FDA, the major risks of breast implants are capsular contracture and a rare disorder called anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
Symptoms Reported
Although the scientific evidence linking breast implants with adverse reactions has not been well established, it is very clear there are a significant number of women who feel their bodies are being negatively affected by their implants.
Some of the symptoms reported by women include fatigue, low energy, brain fog, memory loss, headaches, joint and muscle pain, hair loss, repeated infections, swollen lymph nodes and glands, rashes, gastrointestinal upset, weight loss, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
No matter what scientific evidence shows or support groups share, the fact that some women are reporting illness cannot be ignored.
Treatment - Your Body, Your Choice
The undeniable truth is this: the decision to get implants and to remove them is solely the patients.
Dr. Barr’s philosophy of treatment focuses on overcoming illness and fear, and living in the solution: “Whether medical studies prove it or not, some women are experiencing illness. It is my job to listen to patients and provide them with safe and informed solutions to the issues they are experiencing”.
There is also a subset of women who are choosing to remove successful implants despite being healthy and not experiencing any symptoms. Symptomatic or not, it is the role of a plastic surgeon to provide these women with the information they need to make the choice they feel is right for them and to support these important decisions.
Another patient of Dr. Barr’s is Thea who was living with lupus and other autoimmune issues before getting breast implants four years ago. She made the personal decision to undergo breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons and has absolutely no regrets: “I’ve been happy and healthy for four years.” According to Thea, she has had no change in her autoimmune disease since her surgery and has chosen to keep her breast implants.
Dr. Barr believes it is the surgeon’s job to listen carefully to patient concerns and preferences and to provide education regarding the options available to them so they can make an informed decision. The decision to undergo any surgery always comes with risks and benefits, and it is essential surgeons listen carefully to their patients to help guide them in making these most personal choices: “Once patients have the basic knowledge of what their options are, how they wish to proceed is completely their choice.”
Upcoming Seminar
Dr. Barr will be hosting an educational event in March for Breast Awareness Month – Date & Location has not been determined, please call now to reserve your spot as seating will be limited.
Seating Will Be Limited - RSVP Now! (561) 833-4122
Contact Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Today
If you are experiencing an illness which you believe may be related to breast implantation, call us today at (561) 833-4122 to arrange your complimentary consultation with Dr. Barr. We will provide you with the information you need to make an educated decision about what is best for you and your health.
Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery offers a personalized and innovative approach centered upon privacy, comfort and excellent results.
For more information click here: Total Capsulectomy Palm Beach
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This blog provides general information and discusses health, cosmetic procedures, and Breast Implant Illness. The information and other content provided in this blog, or any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. Each individual has a unique physiology, along with their own characteristics, concerns, and desires. A blog cannot sufficiently address them.
If you or any other person has a cosmetic or medical concern, consult a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
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