Is Your Body Trying to Tell You Something? BII Symptoms

Have you felt “off” but can’t quite pinpoint the cause? Are you dealing with unexplained symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog? If you have breast implants, your body might be trying to tell you something: you could be experiencing BII symptoms. At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we understand how frustrating it can be to feel unheard. That’s why we’re here to listen, guide, and help you uncover the potential root of your symptoms. Compassion and honesty are at the heart of everything we do. Because as we see it, a doctor shouldn’t need a study to believe your story.

Many women who have undergone breast augmentation have begun sharing their experiences with persistent, unexplained health issues—symptoms they believe are interconnected with their breast implants. This phenomenon is often referred to as Breast Implant Illness – BII.

While the medical community continues to debate and research the potential link between breast implants and these systemic symptoms, women deserve support and care during their health journeys. Your voice matters, and so does your well-being.

This blog, from a Board-certified plastic surgeon in West Palm Beach, describes the specific symptoms reported by women worldwide, explains women’s motivations for getting breast implants, and explores the type of breast implant removal surgery we recommend based on an individual’s medical history, symptom severity, and unique needs and goals.

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Though not yet officially classified as a medical condition, BII refers to a collection of common symptoms that some individuals attribute to their breast implants. Symptom severity and types of symptoms can vary widely, often leaving women feeling bewildered and burdened.

Commonly reported symptoms associated with BII include:

• Chronic fatigue
• Joint pain
• Brain fog and trouble concentrating
• Muscle pain
• Digestive issues
• Hair loss
• Skin rashes
• Breathing difficulties
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Autoimmune diseases
• Thyroid problems

If symptomatic patients cannot attribute their specific symptoms to other health conditions, it’s worth exploring breast implants as the possible culprit and implant removal as the potential solution for restoring their quality of life.

We Treat Breast Implant Illness by Listening to Women First

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, patient trust and safety are paramount. In 2019, Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S. decided to stop offering breast implants because he and his entire staff prioritize patient health above all else. When women walk through the doors of our plastic surgery practice and report symptoms they believe are implant-related complications, we listen. Every woman’s breast implant illness story is unique, and every woman deserves to have her doctor address her concerns seriously and compassionately.

Many people ask, “How is breast implant illness diagnosed?”

The truth is, there is no official medical diagnosis for breast implant illness. However, even in the absence of definitive diagnostic tools for BII, our plastic surgery office focuses on understanding the individual’s needs. Each woman deserves the dignity of being believed and supported—without judgment or dismissal.

Why Breast Implants?

Breast implants remain popular. Each year, more than 400,000 women in the United States opt for implants for deeply personal reasons. Whether it’s to restore volume after pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, balance natural asymmetry, achieve a specific aesthetic goal, or simply feel more confident, the decision to get implants often changes women’s lives in the most positive ways.

Various Types of Implants

Women can choose specific breast implants, including:

• Saline: a popular choice for women age 18 or older, saline implants contain sterile salt water and provide a uniform shape, firmness, and feel. If the implant shell leaks, a saline implant will collapse, and the saline will be absorbed and expelled by the body.
• Silicone: silicone breast implants, FDA-approved for women 22 or older, contain a silicone gel that feels more natural than other types of material used for breast implants. In case of accidental leakage, the silicone gel may remain within the implant’s shell or move into the surrounding breast tissue. However, despite leakage, the implant will not collapse. Patients who choose silicone implants should attend regular follow-up appointments with a plastic surgeon to confirm that the implants function optimally. These patients can also undergo an ultrasound or MRI screening to evaluate the condition of the implants.
• Textured: textured breast implants reduce the chances of unwanted movement or shifting of the implant inside the breast by encouraging the development of scar tissue that attaches to the implant surface. Textured implants can prevent the formation of a tight scar capsule.

Reasons Women Choose Breast Implants

Women opt for breast implants for a myriad of reasons.

1. Increase self-confidence: Women who feel self-conscious about the size or shape of their breasts may choose to get breast implants to look and feel better.
2. Restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight loss can cause the breasts to lose volume and shape. Breast implants can help restore fullness and shape to the breasts.
3. Balance asymmetrical breasts: Some women have asymmetrical breasts, with one breast larger or smaller than the other. Breast implants can help create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
4. Enhance physical appearance: Breast implants can enhance a woman’s physical appearance, making her feel more attractive and confident.
5. Fit better in clothing: Small-breasted women may struggle to find clothing that fits well, particularly bathing suits or formal dresses and gowns. Breast implants can help create a more proportionate and attractive silhouette.
6. Feel more feminine: Some women feel more feminine with larger, fuller breasts.
7. Feel more youthful: As women age, their breasts tend to sag or lose volume. Breast implants can give them a more youthful and perky appearance.

Breast Implant Illness & The Struggle for Recognition

One of the most frustrating challenges for women experiencing symptoms of breast implant illness? Being taken seriously by medical professionals. Breast implant illness defies standard diagnosis because its symptoms overlap with many other illnesses. Sadly, some women who find us report that previous doctors they consulted brushed them off and told them their symptoms were all in their heads.

If this sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone. Thousands of women across the globe have faced similar battles, searching for answers and relief. The good news is that there is a path forward from breast implant illness—and we’re here to reveal your options.

The Connection Between Implants and BII Symptoms 

A doctor cannot diagnose breast implant illness because the exact cause of BII remains uncertain. Some speculate that immune system responses to implants, scar tissue buildup, or unrecognized infections may trigger symptoms. Research is ongoing, but for now, one thing is clear—women report significant symptom improvement after undergoing breast implant removal surgery.

Total Capsulectomy Breast Implant Removal Surgery for Breast Implant Illness – BII, Explained

If you believe your implants may be negatively impacting your health, a procedure called a total capsulectomy could be the solution. This surgical method involves removing the breast implant and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule), which could be contributing to systemic symptoms.

Dr. Fredric Barr, our Board-certified plastic surgeon at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, performs total capsulectomies with exceptional care and precision. His compassionate approach supports you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to your recovery plan.

Breast Implant Removal Procedure

During a total capsulectomy, Dr. Barr removes the implant and capsule in their entirety. This type of breast implant removal surgery strives to eliminate any potentially harmful elements while preserving the surrounding tissue. Once he completes the surgery, Dr. Barr cleanses the area thoroughly with a triple antibiotic wash to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

After implant removal, some women experience relief from symptoms quickly. For others, recovery from breast implant removal is gradual. Every case is unique, and success often depends on factors like underlying health concerns and how long the woman has been having symptoms.

What Does En Bloc Mean and Why Does It Dominate Social Media?

En bloc is a French term that means “all together.” En bloc removal describes a treatment plan and procedure that removes a tumor with a margin of uninvolved tissue when a suspicion of malignancy or cancer exists. In the absence of malignancy, en bloc is not recommended for the removal of breast implants. The National Library of Medicine states that it is mainly recommended for treating breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

However, due to the prevalence of social media platforms, BII patients made an en bloc capsulectomy a buzzword for breast implant illness treatment, leading the public to incorrectly attribute an en bloc procedure as a solution for BII symptoms rather than a specific treatment for anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

What is a Total Capsulectomy Implant Surgery?

Among treatment options for breast implant disease, Dr. Barr prefers a total capsulectomy. This type of breast surgery removes scar tissue surrounding the implant and the implant itself. Whenever he can, Dr. Barr removes the capsule in one piece. This implant surgery does NOT remove additional tissue beyond the scar capsule and implant. A total capsulectomy as a breast implant illness treatment could be the right course of action for patients who suspect that their breast implants cause their symptoms. You can be confident that Dr. Barr’s method results in the complete removal of the capsule.

Why Choose Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery & Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S. Among Explant Surgeons? 

Making the decision to have explantation surgery is profoundly personal. It requires an honest conversation about your symptoms, risks, and goals to determine the best course of action.

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we take pride in offering five-star service with a human touch. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the difference. You can expect transparency, safety, and respect for your concerns.

Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, considering options, or ready for explant surgery, our team is here to meet you where you are. With Dr. Barr’s extensive expertise and our understanding approach, you’ll feel genuinely cared for throughout the entire process.

Because we believe this isn’t just a medical issue—it’s about empowering women to reclaim their health and confidence.

Contact Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery to Explore Treatment Options for Breast Implant Illness – BII  

Have you been typing “best plastic surgeons in Florida” into your search bar?

If you’re ready to explore the possibility of having your breast implants removed or want to receive answers to your questions about BII, the first step is a consultation with our patient counselor.

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, listening is at the core of everything we do. A doctor shouldn’t need a study to believe your story. It’s your body, your health, and your right to well-being.

Could your body be trying to tell you something? Don’t wait to find out. Call us at (561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with our patient counselor.

Copyright © 2025. Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery. All Rights Reserved.

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.

Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery
1411 N Flagler Dr #5800
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
(561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122
https://www.palmbeachplasticsurgery.com/