August 20, 2026 | 4 minute read
For some women, breast implants continue to provide satisfaction for many years. Others, however, begin experiencing a collection of inexplicable symptoms and wonder whether their implant could be contributing. Understanding breast implant illness (BII), its potential symptoms, and the available treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your health.
Common Signs of Breast Implant Illness (BII): When to Talk to Your Surgeon
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a wide range of symptoms that some women report after receiving breast implant surgery. BII is not currently recognized as an official medical diagnosis, and there is no single test to confirm it; however, many patients experience very real symptoms that improve after implant removal.
BII symptoms can overlap with many other medical conditions, so it’s important to work with both your primary care physician and an experienced plastic surgeon to determine whether your implants may be playing a role.
Commonly reported symptoms of BII include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Joint and muscle pain
- Headache
- New or worsening anxiety or depression
- Hair loss
- Dry eyes or dry mouth
- Skin rashes
- Sleep disturbances
- Digestive issues
- Unexplained inflammation
Not every patient experiences the same symptoms. Additionally, symptoms may develop months or even years after breast augmentation. If you have symptoms that are persisting without another clear explanation, it may be time to speak with a surgeon who has extensive experience evaluating breast implant illness.
How Breast Implant Removal Can Relieve Breast Implant Illness Symptoms
If other potential causes have been ruled out, or if a patient simply doesn’t want her implants anymore, breast implant removal (breast explant surgery) may be an appropriate treatment option. And although every patient is different and symptom relief cannot be guaranteed, many women report feeling significantly better after surgery.
Breast explant surgery often involves removing both the breast implants and the surrounding capsule of scar tissue. This is known as an “en bloc” or total capsulectomy. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will determine the safest and most effective surgical approach based on your anatomy, implant history, and treatment goals.
Some patients may notice improvements within just a few weeks after surgery, while others experience more gradual changes over several months as the body continues to heal. Because recovery is unique to each individual, your surgeon will discuss what you can realistically expect based on your specific circumstances.
If you are considering getting your implants removed because of BII, choosing a surgeon with extensive experience in complex breast revision procedures is one of the most important decisions you can make. Dr. Philip Straka is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Chicago who sees patients from across the country for his reputation as a specialist in breast implant removal and consistently excellent results.
Can You Prevent Breast Implant Illness? What to Know Before Your Next Surgery
There is currently no proven way to prevent breast implant illness. Researchers continue to study why some women develop symptoms while many others do not. At this time, no specific implant type, fill material, or manufacturer has demonstrated the ability to eliminate implant-related symptoms.
If you are considering breast augmentation or revision surgery, you can approach the surgery carefully to make the decision that’s right for you.
Before your next procedure:
- Choose a plastic surgeon who’s not only board certified, but who has extensive experience in breast surgery.
- Discuss your complete medical history, including any autoimmune conditions or chronic health concerns.
- Understand the benefits, risks, and long-term maintenance associated with breast implants.
- Attend routine follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor your implants over time.
- Keep an eye out for any new or unexplained symptoms. Keep a record if you notice any, and seek evaluation by your surgeon or PCP promptly if they develop further.
The goal is not to create unnecessary concern but to ensure you have realistic expectations and the information needed to make confident decisions about your health.
Learn About Your Breast Implant Illness Options
With extensive experience performing breast explant procedures, Dr. Philip J. Straka has helped women from across the country address implant-related concerns through compassionate and personalized surgical care. He is committed to providing honest guidance and helping patients move forward toward relief.
Call (281) 540-8044 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation.