Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Is Implant Removal Right for Me?

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a broad collection of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that some women experience after receiving breast implants, regardless of implant type (saline or silicone), texture, or brand. Often, symptoms don’t show up until months or even years later.

Because BII does not yet have a universally accepted medical definition or diagnostic test, it remains a debated topic in the medical community. However, a growing number of patients report similar symptom patterns, and many experience significant improvement after implant removal.

While research is ongoing, possible contributing factors include:

  • Immune system response to foreign materials (e.g., silicone shells, heavy metals)
  • Chronic inflammation or biofilm infection near the implant
  • Silicone gel bleed or rupture, even in “intact” implants
  • Genetic predisposition to autoimmune reactions
  • Exposure to toxins or endocrine disruptors

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a broad collection of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that some women experience after receiving breast implants, regardless of implant type (saline or silicone), texture, or brand. Often, symptoms don’t show up until months or even years later.

Because BII does not yet have a universally accepted medical definition or diagnostic test, it remains a debated topic in the medical community. However, a growing number of patients report similar symptom patterns, and many experience significant improvement after implant removal.

While research is ongoing, possible contributing factors include:

  • Immune system response to foreign materials (e.g., silicone shells, heavy metals)
  • Chronic inflammation or biofilm infection near the implant
  • Silicone gel bleed or rupture, even in “intact” implants
  • Genetic predisposition to autoimmune reactions
  • Exposure to toxins or endocrine disruptors

 Could You Have Breast Implant Illness?

Women with Breast Implant Illness report a wide range of symptoms that may be subtle at first and worsen over time. While every patient is different, the most commonly reported issues include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Brain fog or memory issues
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Hair loss or rashes
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Breathing difficulties

Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, connecting them directly to implants can be difficult. Many women only begin to question a link when other explanations fall short.

Wondering if BII could be affecting you? There's no definitive test for Breast Implant Illness, but awareness is the first step. Take our self-assessment quiz to explore whether your symptoms may align with BII.

Take the Breast Implant Illness Quiz

Physical Symptoms

  Chronic fatigue
  Muscle aches or joint pain
  Headaches or migraines
  Hair thinning or hair loss
  Dry mouth or dry eyes
Rashes or skin irritation
Shortness of breath or chest discomfort

Cognitive & Emotional Symptoms

Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Memory issues
Mood swings or irritability
Anxiety or panic attacks
Depression

Digestive & Hormonal Symptoms

Bloating or digestive discomfort
Food sensitivities
Menstrual irregularities
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Low libido or hormonal imbalances

Other

Recurrent infections or poor wound healing
Sensitivity to light or sound
Numbness or tingling in limbs
Autoimmune disease diagnosis after implants

If you checked multiple boxes, especially if symptoms began after implant surgery, it may be worth exploring the possibility of Breast Implant Illness with a qualified surgeon.

Considering Explant Surgery? You Have Another Option With All Me Augmentation

If you’re thinking about removing your breast implants due to BII symptoms, you may also be wondering what you will look like after.

This is where All Me Augmentation™ comes in. All Me Augmentation™ is Dr. Boutros’s proprietary procedure for enhancing the breasts using your own tissue—no implants, no synthetic materials, and no foreign substances.

The procedure uses the DIEP flap technique, which transfers natural fat and skin (typically from the lower abdomen) to the chest to restore or enhance breast volume. It’s commonly used in breast reconstruction, and now, it’s available as a cosmetic solution for women who want fullness without the risks of implants.

Implant-free results that look and feel natural

No risk of BII or other implant complications

Performed by a nationally recognized microsurgical expert

One-time surgery—no future replacements or monitoring

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Dr. Boutros listens to your wants and makes it happen. His staff is amazing and beyond professional. I had the best experience possible and would use him over and over.

Alicia

Your All Me Augmentation Journey

Step 1 – Your Consultation

We’ll listen closely to your concerns and symptoms, explain all available options, and help you decide if All Me Augmentation™ is the right path forward.

Step 2 – Explant + DIEP Flap Procedure

Dr. Boutros performs implant removal and natural augmentation in one surgery, using refined techniques that minimize trauma and maximize aesthetic results.

Step 3 – Recovery and Results

Expect light activity within 2–3 weeks and full recovery over several months. Your results will continue to refine naturally, with no implants and no ongoing maintenance required.

Why Choose Dr. Boutros?

Dr. Sean Boutros is one of the nation’s most experienced and innovative plastic surgeons in DIEP flap and microsurgical breast procedures. He developed All Me Augmentation™ to give women a natural, safer alternative to implants, especially those facing the challenges of BII.

Learn more about Dr. Boutros

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Breast Implant Illness be diagnosed with a test?

Currently, no. BII is diagnosed by ruling out other conditions and assessing the timing and pattern of symptoms. Many patients see improvement after explant surgery.

Will my symptoms improve if I remove my implants?

Many women report dramatic improvements in energy, mood, pain, and brain fog after explant surgery, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle and support.

Will I lose volume if I remove my implants?

Not with All Me Augmentation™.  Dr. Boutros uses your own tissue to restore natural fullness and shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Breast Implant Illness be diagnosed with a test?

Currently, no. BII is diagnosed by ruling out other conditions and assessing the timing and pattern of symptoms. Many patients see improvement after explant surgery.

Will my symptoms improve if I remove my implants?

Many women report dramatic improvements in energy, mood, pain, and brain fog after explant surgery, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle and support.

Will I lose volume if I remove my implants?

Not with All Me Augmentation™.  Dr. Boutros uses your own tissue to restore natural fullness and shape.

Step Into a New Chapter of Natural Confidence

You don’t have to live with uncertainty. Whether you’re concerned about your implants or ready to explore a more natural option, All Me Augmentation™ can help you feel whole again, inside and out.

Contact Us

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