A rising number of women are opting for explant surgery as a solution to symptoms linked to Breast Implant Illness (BII), an emerging condition that has sparked growing concern in recent years. Dr. Joshua Halpern, a renowned plastic surgeon, and Marlene Forand, one of his patients, recently shared their insights on this trend during an appearance on the global health and wellness show Bloom.
Understanding Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast Implant Illness (BII) encompasses a wide range of symptoms experienced by some women with breast implants. While research is still ongoing, many women have reported experiencing debilitating health issues linked to BII. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain and chronic inflammation
- Brain fog and fatigue
- Skin issues, such as dryness and irritation
- Autoimmune diseases, including Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Other symptoms such as dry eyes, difficulty swallowing, and hair loss
As awareness of BII grows, more women are seeking solutions to alleviate their symptoms, with explant surgery emerging as a popular option.
What is Explant Surgery?
Explant surgery involves the removal of breast implants, and often includes the removal of the surrounding capsule—the layer of scar tissue that forms naturally around implants. Dr. Halpern explained the two main approaches to this procedure:
En Bloc: In this method, both the implant and the capsule are removed together as one unit. This technique is often preferred when there are concerns about potential contamination or the presence of free silicone particles.
Capsulectomy: This involves the removal of the capsule, which may be done without removing the implant.
Dr. Halpern stressed the importance of removing the capsule entirely. “If the capsule is left behind, it doesn’t dissolve or go away. Any free silicone or other particles embedded in the capsule will remain there permanently,” he explained.
A Growing Trend
Dr. Halpern, who has performed over 1,000 breast augmentations in his career, noted a noticeable shift in demand toward explant surgeries. To date, he has performed nearly 500 explant procedures, reflecting a growing awareness of BII and an increasing number of women prioritizing their health over cosmetic procedures.
Who Should Avoid Breast Implant Surgery?
Dr. Halpern also outlined certain factors that may contraindicate breast implant surgery. These include:
Compromised immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of complications.
Poor quality soft tissue coverage: Insufficient tissue may not adequately support implants.
Unrealistic expectations: Emotional preparedness and realistic goals are critical for successful outcomes.
Major medical issues: Underlying health conditions can complicate surgery and recovery.
Marlene’s Story
Marlene Forand, who underwent an explant with a lift in September 2023, shared her personal journey with the audience. For Marlene, the decision to remove her implants was driven by persistent BII symptoms that had significantly impacted her daily life. Following her surgery, she reported significant improvements in her overall health and expressed her gratitude for making the decision to prioritize her well-being.
A Movement Toward Health and Awareness
As awareness of the potential risks of breast implants continues to grow, the trend toward explant surgery is gaining momentum. Dr. Halpern and Marlene’s conversation highlighted the importance of informed decision-making, health advocacy, and the crucial support available for women navigating their journey with BII. With the rise in explant surgeries, more women are finding a path to better health and recovery, free from the challenges posed by breast implant illness.
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