Breast Implant Illness

What Is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
Common Symptoms
How Is BII Diagnosed?
Why the Debate?
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Holistic Approach
Should You Consider Explant Surgery?
Explant Surgery at Allure Medspa (Mumbai)
FAQs
Take the Next Step

Breast Implant Illness (BII): What You Should Know

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a patient-reported collection of systemic symptoms that may occur after breast augmentation or reconstruction, especially with implants. It is not the same as rupture, capsular contracture, or BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). Rather, BII describes a possible immune or inflammatory response to a foreign body.

While BII is not yet a formally defined medical diagnosis, many women report feeling chronically unwell and see improvement after implant removal (explant). At Allure Medspa, Mumbai, we take these concerns seriously and provide compassionate, evidence-informed care.

FDA — Breast Implant Safety & BII

Common Symptoms of BII

Chronic fatigue and low energy
Joint or muscle pain
Hair thinning or loss
“Brain fog,” memory or concentration issues
Sleep disturbances
Skin rashes or dryness
Dry eyes or mouth
Anxiety, low mood, or mood swings
Thyroid or hormonal irregularities

Symptoms may begin months or years post-surgery and can overlap with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.
PubMed — Breast Implants & Systemic Symptoms

How Is BII Diagnosed?

There is currently no single laboratory test for BII. A careful clinical process helps guide decisions:

Detailed symptom review and medical history
Examination of implant type, placement, and age
Targeted investigations to exclude other autoimmune, endocrine, or infectious causes
Consideration of improvement after explantation

Mayo Clinic — Overview of BII

Why Is There Debate Around BII?

Evidence still evolving: Large studies have not established definitive causation, but patient reports and smaller datasets are compelling and growing.
Patient experience vs trials: Many women report symptom relief after explant; disentangling placebo and multifactorial effects is challenging.
Regulatory stance: Agencies acknowledge reports and emphasise informed consent, device tracking, and clear risk labelling.

Aesthetic Surgery Journal — Autoimmune/Systemic Risk | ISAPS — Transparency & Patient Information

Dr. Milan Doshi’s Holistic Approach

“Whether the root is autoimmune, inflammatory, or multifactorial, your suffering is real. My role is to listen, investigate thoroughly, and help you reach relief safely and honestly.”— Dr. Milan Doshi, Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon, Allure Medspa, Mumbai

Comprehensive consultation and symptom mapping
Review of implant history (surface, fill, placement, duration)
Balanced discussion of options: watchful waiting, medical optimisation, or explant
Clear expectations, shared decision-making, and continuity of care

Should You Consider Explant Surgery?

Explantation may be reasonable if one or more apply:

Persistent, unexplained symptoms affecting daily life
Implants older than 10–15 years
Findings such as rupture or capsular contracture
Worsening of pre-existing autoimmune conditions

Explant Surgery at Allure Medspa (Mumbai)

Technique: Total or en-bloc capsulectomy when indicated; smooth, scar-conscious incisions
Safety: NABH-aligned protocols; anaesthesia by qualified team; sterile, no-touch handling
Aesthetics: 3D/photographic planning; option of simultaneous mastopexy (lift) if needed
Alternatives: Autologous fat transfer for gentle volume restoration (when appropriate)
Follow-up: Structured reviews; symptom tracking; scar and wellness support

Cleveland Clinic — Breast Implant Removal

FAQs About Breast Implant Illness

Q1. Can BII go away without explant?

Ans. Some patients pursue lifestyle and medical optimisation, but many report the most reliable improvement after implant and capsule removal.

Q2. How long is recovery after explant?

Ans. Most resume light activity in 5–7 days; significant symptom improvements are often noted within 4–8 weeks, with continued gains thereafter.

Q3. Are saline implants safer than silicone for BII?

Ans. Both share a silicone shell; systemic symptoms have been reported with either. Decisions should be personalised and evidence-informed.

Q4. Can I get implants again later?

Ans. Technically yes, but generally not advised if you experienced BII. Fat transfer or a lift may offer aesthetic alternatives without implants.

Take the Next Step — Confidential Consult

You’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone. If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms or want peace of mind, we’re here with empathy and expertise.

📞 Call: +91 8291863159 | 📅 Book online: Schedule your consultation » | 📍 Visit: Allure Medspa, Mumbai