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It’s been three months since I made a life-altering decision: to remove my breast implants and the accompanying capsules. At 29, I had been experiencing 29 different symptoms related to breast implant illness, a term that, while not officially recognized, reflects the very real struggles faced by many women with implants.
Three months ago, I took the step to have my breast implants removed, and now, I’m left with just the scars from that journey. After undergoing a direct-to-implant mastectomy four years ago due to stage 1 breast cancer, I lived with implants for three and a half years. However, I soon realized they were causing me not only physical pain but also serious health issues. Now, I finally feel like I’m reclaiming my identity.
Understanding Breast Implant Illness (BII)
You may have heard of Breast Implant Illness (BII). Although it isn’t an officially diagnosed condition, it’s very real for those of us who have suffered its effects. The symptoms can be alarming, with over 50 potential issues including sudden food intolerances, anxiety, digestive problems, and chronic fatigue, among others. The sheer number of possible symptoms is daunting.
Some might wonder how we can attribute these health issues to implants rather than other conditions. Many women, including myself, have undergone extensive medical testing—CT scans, MRIs, physical therapy, and consultations with specialists—only to find no clear answers. Often, we are left feeling as though our struggles are dismissed as mere anxiety or depression, while the implants continue to jeopardize our health.
The FDA’s Stance
What’s the FDA’s stance on this? Currently, they acknowledge risks associated with breast implants, such as the potential for additional surgeries, infections, and systemic symptoms. They mention BII, noting that some women report experiencing autoimmune diseases, but they claim there isn’t enough evidence to support a direct link. This can be disheartening for those of us experiencing real symptoms.
My Decision to Explant
Throughout my time with implants, especially in the final months, I felt as though I was losing my life. I often spent days in bed, unable to function. I was in constant pain, with my right shoulder and ribcage feeling like they were burning. Despite trying various therapies, relief was fleeting.
One day, I made the decision to remove my implants. Even a slight improvement in my health would be worth it. I thoroughly researched BII and felt confident in my diagnosis. Looking good in a swimsuit wasn’t worth the toll it was taking on my life. Losing my natural breasts to cancer didn’t mean I had to lose my well-being to implants.
Dr. Michael Bennett’s Insights
Dr. Michael Bennett, a well-respected plastic surgeon, has gained recognition in the BII community for helping patients reclaim their health by removing implants. He shared that many patients experience immediate relief after explant surgery, while others may take longer to heal. Astonishingly, 85-90% of his patients report feeling better after the procedure.
There should be no shame in reevaluating past decisions regarding health, especially when it comes to something as serious as implants. The lack of thorough pre-surgery education is concerning. Many women are led to believe that implants are completely safe, with complications being rare. Although rare cases of cancer exist, the absence of acknowledgment of BII is hard to ignore.
My Recovery Journey
Three months post-surgery, I am thrilled to say that 25 of my 29 symptoms have disappeared. This experience has shown me that having foreign objects in my body was not a wise choice—it cost me precious time with my family and enjoyment in life. I am grateful for my decision to remove the implants and am on the path to rediscovering my true self.
Related Resources
For those interested in related topics, check out this post on intracervical insemination and explore Make a Mom’s insights on fertility journeys. Another great resource for pregnancy and home insemination is Parents.com.
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In summary, my journey of having breast implants removed has been transformative. After experiencing numerous symptoms and undergoing countless tests, I finally took charge of my health. Now, three months later, I am on the road to recovery, with many of my symptoms gone and a renewed sense of self.