Robert Whitfield, MD, is an Austin-based, board-certified plastic surgeon who has studied and treated breast implant illness through explant surgery with total capsulectomy for over 2,000 patients.
His published PCR research identified bacterial biofilm in 29 percent of 694 capsule specimens, providing a scientific basis for understanding why BII symptoms develop.
Explant Procedures
Capsules PCR-Tested
Contamination Identified
Local Practice
Breast implant illness is a systemic condition in which women with breast implants develop multi-system symptoms including fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, hair loss, and autoimmune presentations. Dr. Whitfield's Austin practice is built around diagnosing and treating BII through explant surgery with total capsulectomy.
His published PCR analysis evaluated 694 capsule specimens and identified bacterial contamination in 29 percent of the dataset across 103 species. This contamination is detectable only by molecular analysis, not standard culture, and may drive the chronic immune activation producing BII symptoms.
Dr. Whitfield testified before the U.S. FDA General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel on breast implant safety, bringing research-backed perspective to the BII discussion.
The national guide explains causes, symptoms, testing, and treatment. Review the complete guide to breast implant illness.
Dr. Whitfield's main office is located at 2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746, with convenient access for patients across the Austin metro and Central Texas.
Dr. Whitfield offers comprehensive BII evaluation including symptom assessment, inflammatory marker testing, and implant history review.
At the time of explant surgery, PCR molecular testing is performed on the removed capsule tissue, the same testing methodology used in his published research.
Start with a consultation. Dr. Whitfield assesses symptoms, implant history, and whether explant surgery with total capsulectomy is appropriate. His published research on capsule biofilm informs the diagnostic approach.
Dr. Whitfield's research (PMID 39338504) identified bacterial contamination in 29 percent of 694 capsule specimens using PCR molecular testing. Standard culture testing does not detect this biofilm. The capsule is living tissue that can drive chronic immune activation. Explant with total capsulectomy removes both the implant and the capsule.
Dr. Whitfield offers evaluation that includes symptom assessment, inflammatory markers, and implant history. PCR capsule testing is performed on the removed capsule tissue at the time of explant surgery, using the same methodology as his published research.
The practice serves Austin, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, San Marcos, New Braunfels, and the wider Central Texas region.
Dr. Robert Whitfield has guided thousands of patients through surgical decisions with clarity, data, and a personalized plan. Your consultation is where that plan begins.
Not ready to book? Download the free Inflammation Support Guide to start your journey.