Why I Chose to Remove My Breast Implants — And You Might Too

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It’s been nine months since I had my breast implants taken out, and I’ve never felt better. I held onto those implants for three and a half years, during which I endured persistent pain—specifically in my shoulders, ribs, and neck. Two years post-implantation, I started feeling unwell and eventually developed twenty-nine symptoms associated with what is known as Breast Implant Illness (BII).

I’m not alone in this experience. A quick search on Facebook reveals a group called Breast Implant Illness and Healing, led by Nicole, which has over 150,000 members sharing their stories about implant-related toxicity and their healing journey post-explant. Public figures like Sarah Adams and Lisa Carter have also opened up about their explant experiences, and this year, Jessica Harper produced a documentary titled Explant, detailing her own battle with breast implant illness.

Between 2019 and 2020, there was an 8% increase in breast implant removal surgeries. Interestingly, in 2020, breast augmentation procedures dropped by an astonishing 33% compared to the previous year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What’s driving this significant shift in attitudes toward plastic surgery? The trend is clearly leaning towards natural beauty.

Dr. Mark Thompson, a board-certified plastic surgeon in California, shared that he performs 10 to 15 explant surgeries weekly, noting that women increasingly desire a more natural and athletic appearance. If you’re someone who pays attention to beauty trends, you’ll likely know that the natural look is currently “in.”

Dr. Emily Roberts, another board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, echoed this sentiment. She also had her implants removed this year and explained that many women placed implants prior to significant life changes—like childbirth or weight fluctuations—and simply no longer feel that their breasts define them.

Another important aspect to consider is that breast implants can complicate breast cancer screenings. It’s ironic that a procedure designed to “enhance” your breasts could actually hinder breast health. Dr. Rachel Kim, a breast radiologist, noted that both saline and silicone implants can obscure breast tissue, hiding small cancers. This issue is particularly prevalent with pre-pectoral implants, which are situated in front of the muscle.

Chronic pain is another concern linked to breast implants. Beyond neck and back discomfort, about 10.6% of women with implants may experience capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing pain. Personally, I found relief from my muscular pain only after having my implants removed, despite extensive physical therapy and chiropractic treatments.

While Breast Implant Illness (BII) isn’t an official medical diagnosis, its symptoms are very real for those affected. The FDA even acknowledges BII and recently mandated stricter safety disclosures related to breast implants. Women must now be fully informed about potential risks. Dr. Roberts highlighted that, historically, women were often not made aware that implants are not lifetime devices, but new FDA regulations have compelled a shift in priorities when it comes to health versus aesthetics.

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In summary, the decision to remove breast implants can lead to improved well-being and health for many women. As awareness of Breast Implant Illness increases and more women share their experiences, the trend appears to be shifting towards valuing natural beauty and prioritizing health over aesthetics.