Episode 27: The Truth About Breast Implant Illness: Research, Treatment Options and More

Despite the cases involving breast implant illness, there is still a lack of research studies, clinical studies, and other resources regarding this matter. Recognizing the concerns raised, surgeons, medical practitioners, and other organizations have called for further investigation into breast implant safety and potential health risks associated with them, particularly regarding breast implant illness. That is why it’s important for us to discuss breast implant illness considering the fact that it’s been hard to characterize such a condition. We have to continue raising awareness to provide timely intervention and appropriate medical management, if necessary. Your body and breast implants play a role but it’s not the only factor. Back in 2019-2020, when I was the president of the Education Research Foundation for the Aesthetic Society, we were able to fund studies on the psychological and basic scientific aspects of breast implant illness. We were able to learn more about the condition as we conducted a randomized prospective trial about surgery, identification of heavy metals, and more. Initially, we thought of it as just an inflammation but it became more significant to the point that the patient can no longer manage the inflammation. Moreover, it affects the patient’s mental health and this issue cannot be solely linked to their bodies or breast implants. There are other factors causing the symptoms of anxiety, depression, brain fog, muscle, and joint pains, and the list goes on. And from a provider’s standpoint, it’s complicated and challenging to recognize all the patterns because the condition of breast implant illness is not yet well acknowledged and understood. Breast Implant Illness is still not part of the provided classification systems. It should be noted that for something to be categorized as a medical diagnosis, it has to be implemented in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). At present, breast implant illness is still not part of the provided classification systems. Therefore, it is not yet a recognized medical diagnosis, although there are groups and organizations working towards that. It’s going to take some time before it gets to be recognized as a medical diagnosis officially but since I’ve spent years studying the condition, we were able to make a program to further help patients and even surgeons. As much as we can, we provide the best care for our clients. Putting a great deal into different factors that may contribute to inflammation and breast implant illness Due to the lack of studies regarding this matter, many practitioners find it difficult to recognize the symptoms and patterns of breast implant illness. Personally, I’ve seen a lot of patients dealing with environmental toxicity which is why I put a great deal into everybody’s personal genetics as well as the toxicity levels, food sensitivities, and hormone imbalances. Other factors, like the environment, should also be taken into consideration in correlation with personal genetics, especially when we speak of inflammation. A good example of this would be some of my clients who are realtors constantly exposed to environmental toxins as they go into different homes and renovations. Some of these toxins can cause brain fog, anxiety, and gut problems. Pattern recognition is really important and because I have done thousands of consultations, heard different stories throughout my years of being in this field, and seen the outcomes of different tests, it’s been easier for me to guide patience throughout their journey. The importance of addressing other issues before surgery It’s vital for us to address all the health issues a patient may have because otherwise, the patient will still experience symptoms. Our assessments should be done with a holistic approach to be able to treat everything properly. Taking a holistic approach to assessment and treatment allows providers to consider the broader context of a patient's health and well-being for more effective solutions or treatments. Before surgery, conducting a comprehensive evaluation helps identify any underlying health conditions or factors that may affect the surgery’s outcome or recovery. Addressing these issues beforehand can optimize the patient's overall health and reduce the risk of complications during or after surgery. Links and Resources Let’s Connect... 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