Breast Implant Illness (BII) has become a growing topic of discussion among women with breast implants. Although not an official medical diagnosis, thousands of women report experiencing symptoms they believe are connected to their implants. At Dr. Paul McCluskey’s practice, many patients seek guidance, evaluation, and support when they begin noticing unexplained health changes. Recognizing the signs early can help you make informed decisions about your health and your breast implants.
What Is Breast Implant Illness?
Breast Implant Illness refers to a wide range of systemic symptoms that some women experience after breast augmentation or reconstruction. These symptoms may appear months or years after surgery, making them difficult to connect to implants without professional guidance. While research continues, the most important factor is how women feel—and many report significant symptom improvement after implant removal.
Common Symptoms of BII
Women experiencing BII often report multiple symptoms affecting different systems of the body. These may include:
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Chronic fatigue or low energy
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Brain fog, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating
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Joint or muscle pain
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Unexplained anxiety or depression
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Hair thinning or shedding
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Chest tightness or difficulty breathing
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Skin rashes or allergy-like reactions
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Hormonal imbalance
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Sleep disturbances
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Headaches or migraines
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Gastrointestinal issues
The variety and intensity of symptoms can vary widely, which is why individualized evaluation is essential.
Why Do These Symptoms Occur?
Although there is no single confirmed cause, proposed contributors include:
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Inflammatory response to the implant or capsule
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Immune system sensitivity
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Biofilm or bacterial contamination
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Silicone “bleed” or gel breakdown in certain implants
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Heavy metal exposure from implant materials
Not every patient with implants will develop symptoms, but for those who do, identifying them early is key.
When to Seek a Consultation
If you have implants and begin experiencing persistent, unexplained symptoms that affect your daily life, it may be time to seek guidance. Dr. McCluskey evaluates each patient carefully, reviewing symptoms, health history, implant type, and imaging when necessary. Patients never have to justify how they feel—your symptoms and concerns are real and deserve attention.
Supporting Your Health Moving Forward
Whether you just want clarity, want your implants removed, or want options for reconstruction after explant, Dr. McCluskey provides honest, compassionate recommendations.
If you suspect you may be experiencing Breast Implant Illness, schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul McCluskey to explore your symptoms and treatment options.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:
Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.