Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Although adverse reactions to breast implants are rare, symptoms can be debilitating for those who experience them. We provide validation, understanding, and tailored surgical solutions for patients seeking removal.
Request ConsultationUnderstanding the Condition
An estimated 300,000 breast augmentations occur in the United States every year. While the vast majority of patients do not experience long-term issues, a small percentage report systemic symptoms that may occur soon after the procedure or many years later.
Patient-Reported Symptoms
Common systemic issues associated with BII
Why Does BII Happen?
Research into BII is ongoing. Some scientists believe it is related to a condition called Autoimmune Inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). An adjuvant is any substance that generates or accelerates the body’s immune response.
At present, no single cause has been identified, though theories point to a combination of factors:
- Predisposition: Some patients may have a genetic predisposition to immune reactions from foreign materials.
- Capsular Contracture: The formation of scar tissue around implants may be related to inflammation. One study showed capsular contracture was present in 55% of symptomatic patients.
- Biofilm & Infection: Low-grade bacterial presence (biofilm) around the implant may trigger chronic immune system activation.
Though BII cannot always be officially diagnosed via blood test, the cluster of symptoms is real and treatable.
Benefits of Explant Surgery
Dr. Neavin offers tailored breast implant removal surgeries (Explant) for suspected cases of BII. Studies show that many patients see a significant reduction in systemic symptoms following removal.
- Alleviate BII-associated physical symptoms
- Improve mental clarity and cognitive function
- Address discomfort caused by capsular contracture
- Reduce aches and pains due to implant weight
- Enable more accurate mammogram screenings
- Restore peace of mind and body confidence
Dr. Neavin’s Approach to Removal
1. Personal Consultation
You will meet with Dr. Neavin to discuss your history. We listen to your story—when symptoms started, how they affect your life, and your goals. We conduct a physical exam to check for capsular contracture and determine the best surgical plan.
2. Preparation
We provide detailed instructions to prepare your body for surgery, including stopping inflammatory medications, avoiding nicotine, and arranging recovery time (typically 1-2 weeks).
3. The Procedure (En Bloc / Capsulectomy)
Dr. Neavin usually reopens previous incision points to minimize new scarring. He removes the implant and, in most cases, performs a total capsulectomy (removing the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant) to ensure any inflammatory tissue is gone. The area is then contoured and sutured for a symmetrical result.
Note: Many implants can be removed under local anesthesia with the patient awake, avoiding general anesthesia risks.
4. Recovery & Healing
Swelling and bruising are normal but subside with time. Dr. Neavin prescribes a recovery regimen to manage comfort. Many patients report an immediate sense of relief ("lighter" feeling) and gradual improvement in systemic symptoms over the following weeks.
Find Relief Today
If you suspect your implants are causing you harm, seek professional treatment from Dr. Tim Neavin.
Or call us directly at (310) 858-8811
View Academic References
- 1. Habib, P. M., Serena, T., & Derosa, A. (2022). Breast Implant Illness: A Case Series. Cureus.
- 2. Spit, K. A., et al. (2022). Patient-reported systemic symptoms in women with silicone breast implants. BMJ Open.
- 3. Kaplan, J., & Rohrich, R. (2021). Breast implant illness: a topic in review. Gland Surgery.
- 4. Cohen Tervaert, J., et al. (2021). Breast implant illness: scientific evidence of its existence. Expert Rev Clin Immunol.
- 5. Wee, C. E., et al. (2020). Understanding Breast Implant Illness, Before and After Explantation. Annals of Plastic Surgery.