BII Education - Breast Implant-related Illness (BII)

Understanding Breast Implant Illness

Breast Implant Illness (BII), also called Systemic Symptoms Associated with Breast Implants (SSBI), is a term used to describe a constellation of symptoms that can develop after receiving breast implants — whether silicone or saline, smooth or textured, round or teardrop. These symptoms often overlap with those of autoimmune, inflammatory, or connective tissue disorders.

What Are the Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII)?

Chronic Fatigue

Brain Fog

Headaches

Sound Sensitivity

Light Sensitivity

Bloating

Food sensitivities

Hair loss

Dry mouth

Dry eyes

Depression

Food allergies

SIBO Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

Acid reflux or GERD

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS

Gut Microbiome Imbalances

Constipation

Anxiety

Insomnia

Swollen Lymph Nodes (often near breast implant or armpit)

Shortness of breath

Weight Gain

Fluid retention

Swelling

Sexual dysfunction

Decreased libido

Respiratory Issues (difficult to take deep breaths)

Frequent & Unexplained Skin Rashes

Recurring Infections

Infertility

Breast tenderness

Nerve pain

Chest tightness

Chest soreness

Skin sensitivity

Lack of Concentration

Memory loss

Persistent joint and muscle pain

While the exact cause is still under investigation, new research is providing valuable insights into the biological processes that may drive these symptoms.

What the Latest Science Says

1. Chronic Inflammation and Oxylipins

Recent studies show that the tissue surrounding breast implants can produce oxidized lipid molecules called oxylipins, which can trigger immune responses and inflammation.

In women with SSBI, five specific oxylipins — including 9-HODE, 13-HODE, 9,10-DiHOME, 12,13-DiHOME, and 10-HOME — were found in significantly higher concentrations than in women without symptoms.
Elevated oxylipins were linked to fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, hair loss, skin dryness, bloating, palpitations, and low libido.
Levels often peaked around 10 years after implant placement, suggesting a possible timeline for inflammatory changes.

2. Biofilm & Immune Activation

Groundbreaking research from the Journal of Clinical Investigation demonstrates that bacterial biofilms — particularly from Staphylococcus epidermidis — can form on implant surfaces and produce the oxylipin 10-HOME.

10-HOME promotes biofilm persistence and shifts the immune system toward a Th1-dominant, pro-inflammatory response, which can drive many BII symptoms.
In lab models, 10-HOME exposure caused immune cells to become “activated” in ways similar to autoimmune conditions, potentially explaining fatigue, myalgias, and other systemic effects.

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3. It’s Not Just in Your Head — Measurable Changes Are Found

Multiple peer-reviewed studies now show that:

Oxidative stress is higher in breast tissue around implants.
Inflammatory lipid mediators are objectively measurable.
Immune cell profiles in affected women differ from controls, even when implants are intact.

These findings validate what patients have been saying for years — symptoms are real, biological, and measurable.

The SHARP Method: A Science-Based Path to Relief

Whether or not you are ready for explant surgery, you can take steps now to reduce inflammation and improve your well-being.

SHARP stands for:

Strategic – Personalized assessment of your health history, genetics, and risk factors.
Holistic – Addressing diet, gut health, hormones, and environmental exposures.
Accelerated – Using targeted supplementation and detox strategies.
Recovery – Optimizing surgical outcomes before and after explant.
Program – Ongoing coaching and support to sustain results.

With SHARP, we combine:

Advanced Testing – Hormones, micronutrients, inflammation markers, gut microbiome, genetic detox capacity.
Targeted Supplementation – Science-backed nutrients to support antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial function, and immune regulation.
Coaching & Lifestyle Support – Guidance from trained health coaches to implement sustainable changes.

Options for Every Stage

If you still have implants and can’t explant yet: You can still enroll in our SHARP Group Program to reduce inflammation, improve energy, and prepare your body for future surgery.
If you’ve explanted elsewhere: SHARP can help you recover faster, reduce residual inflammation, and restore optimal function.

Why Work With Us

Dr. Robert Whitfield is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, specializing in explant surgery, breast implant illness, and recovery optimization. He has published the largest series of PCR-tested capsule samples, revealing a 29% bacterial contamination rate in explanted capsules. His work is cited in leading medical journals and he has helped hundreds of women regain their health.

Take the First Step Today

If you are experiencing symptoms you believe could be related to your breast implants, you are not alone. New science is giving us answers — and a path forward.

Schedule your consultation today to discuss personalized testing, treatment options, and whether SHARP is right for you.

THE BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESS EXPERT IS HERE TO HELP

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Breast Implant Illness (BII) & Chronic Inflammation: What You Need to Know