Breast Implant Illness (BII)

What is breast implant illness?

Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used by some patients and clinicians to describe a range of systemic symptoms that patients with breast implants report, and which they believe are related to their implants. These symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, joint and muscle pain, hair loss, skin rashes, sleep disturbance and anxiety.

BII is not a formally recognised medical diagnosis. However, the experiences of the many women who report these symptoms are taken seriously, and research into the relationship between implants and systemic illness is ongoing.

Symptoms associated with BII

• Fatigue and chronic tiredness
• Cognitive difficulties ("brain fog")
• Joint and muscle pain
• Hair thinning or loss
• Skin rashes or dryness
• Sleep disturbance
• Anxiety or depression
• Dry eyes or mouth
• Gastrointestinal symptoms

The current evidence

At present, there is no confirmed scientific consensus that breast implants cause systemic illness in the majority of patients. Large epidemiological studies have not demonstrated a clear causal link between implants and BII. However, a subset of patients do experience significant improvement in their symptoms following implant removal — and this personal experience is important.

Regulatory bodies including the MHRA (UK) and FDA (USA) continue to investigate BII and update guidance accordingly. Mr Sarakbi keeps up to date with the latest evidence and guidance.

What are my options?

If you have implants and are experiencing symptoms you believe may be related to them, Mr Sarakbi can discuss the available evidence with you in a non-judgmental, evidence-based consultation. Options include:

• Monitoring and watchful waiting
• Investigation to exclude other causes of your symptoms
• Implant removal with or without capsulectomy
• Implant exchange (replacing older or textured implants with newer smooth implants)

Mr Sarakbi will listen to your concerns, review your history and imaging, and support you in making an informed decision. He does not advocate for or against implant removal on the basis of BII but will help you weigh the evidence and your personal circumstances.