Episode 39: Are Certain Types of Implants More Likely to Cause Breast Implant Illness?

One of the frequent significant concerns that I get concerning Breast Implant Illness (BII) is its potential association with the type of breast implants used. This is in line with health issues regarding some implants like textured implants, which have garnered more attention due to their close connection to conditions like anaplastic large cell lymphoma. As we aim to uncover more about the complexities surrounding breast implant illness, this is another episode that will surely provide insights into the potential influence of various implant characteristics on the development of breast implant illness. Breast implant illness and its association with different types of implants I often get asked about how breast implant illness develops and whether certain types of breast implants are more likely to cause it. To address this comprehensively, it's crucial to understand everything at play, especially concerning breast augmentation and reconstruction. I consider breast implant illness to be a form of chronic inflammation that can affect various systems in the body. When considering its development, it's essential to take into account various factors, ranging from implant materials and textures to individual patient factors. While extreme symptoms can occur with textured implants, it's not a guarantee in every case. Textured implants have garnered attention due to their close association with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) and had a worldwide recall. Specifically, the texture and surface of Allergan implants were quite aggressive and were initially designed to prevent implant rotation, especially in cancer reconstruction patients. Textured surfaces were crucial in both stabilizing the implants and sculpting a comprehensive breast shape or form for patients. Nevertheless, their effectiveness in implant retention could also lead to the stimulation of nearby tissues, which might be a contributing factor to the emergence of symptoms linked to breast implant illness. Taking a comprehensive approach to evaluate symptoms and identify root causes In the context of oncology-related breast reconstruction, when natural breast borders have been weakened or removed, reconstructive surgeons have employed various techniques to keep implants in place. One of the techniques that has been historically employed to address this issue is the use of textured tissue expanders. These expanders were introduced as a means to create a stable pocket for implants, preventing their rotation and facilitating the sculpting of a comprehensive breast form, especially in cancer reconstruction cases. The textured surface was instrumental in achieving these objectives by enhancing the adherence of the expander to the surrounding tissues, thereby reducing the risk of breast implant migration. However, while these expanders undeniably serve as valuable tools in breast reconstruction, the rough surfaces of these expanders can stimulate tissues and potentially lead to more symptoms. It's important to note that severe symptoms can be associated with any type of tissue expander. At my clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluate symptoms and identify root causes. We use functional genomics, toxicity testing, food sensitivity testing, gut microbiome evaluation, and hormone assessment to determine any potential reasons behind a patient's health issues. I believe in examining all aspects of a patient's health because the implant itself is just one factor in this complex situation, based on my experience. 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