Breast Implant Illness (BII): Why So Many Women Are Opting to Explant
- Nicole Barney
- Feb 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 6
For decades, breast implants have become an increasingly popular personal choice—whether for reconstruction, augmentation, or self-confidence. But in recent years, a growing number of women have started questioning how their implants may be affecting their health. They're wondering if unexplained symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or chronic inflammation, may be a result of Breast Implant Illness (aka BII).
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that some women experience after getting implants. While BII isn’t yet officially recognized as a medical diagnosis, thousands of women have reported dramatic health improvements after explant surgery (breast implant removal). So, what’s the connection? And if you’re considering explant surgery, what should you know? Let’s break it all down.
What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
BII is a term used to describe a wide range of symptoms that some women develop after receiving breast implants—sometimes years or even decades later. These symptoms often mimic autoimmune disorders and chronic illnesses, making them difficult to diagnose.
Common symptoms of BII include:
Chronic fatigue and brain fog
Joint and muscle pain
Hair loss and dry skin
Anxiety and depression
Chronic inflammation
Digestive issues (bloating, food sensitivities)
Unexplained rashes or skin conditions
Hormonal imbalances
While symptoms vary from person to person, many women find that their health declines over time, leaving them desperate for answers.
What Causes BII?
While research is still ongoing, experts believe BII symptoms may be caused by:
Chronic immune system activation – The body may recognize implants as foreign objects, triggering a long-term immune response.
Silicone & chemical exposure – Even FDA-approved implants contain dozens of chemicals and heavy metals that may impact health.
Biofilm formation – Bacteria can form a thin layer on implants, potentially leading to chronic inflammation.
Hormonal disruption – Some women experience thyroid and adrenal dysfunction linked to their implants.
A study published in the journal Annals of Plastic Surgery found that women with silicone implants had a higher risk of autoimmune conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis.
The Growing Movement: Women Speaking Out
In recent years, a wave of celebrities, influencers, and everyday women have spoken publicly about their struggles with BII and their decision to remove their implants. Their stories have brought much-needed awareness to the potential health risks and have helped normalize choosing explant surgery for health reasons.
Notable Women Who Have Shared Their BII Journeys:
Chrissy Teigen – The model and TV personality openly discussed her decision to remove her implants, citing health concerns and wanting to feel more natural.
Ashley Tisdale – The actress shared how she experienced unexplained health issues that improved after explant surgery.
Danica Patrick – The former NASCAR driver documented her symptoms, including hormonal imbalances and gut health issues, which improved post-explant.
Michelle Visage – The RuPaul’s Drag Race judge has been outspoken about her health struggles linked to implants and the relief she found after removal.
Yolanda Hadid – The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star removed her implants after suspecting they were exacerbating her Lyme disease symptoms.
This growing movement has sparked more research, patient advocacy, and increased awareness, leading many women to take charge of their health and consider explant surgery.
What is Explant Surgery & Does It Help?
Explant surgery is the process of removing breast implants, often along with the surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy). Many women who undergo explant surgery report significant health improvements—sometimes within weeks.
What to Expect from Explant Surgery:
En Bloc vs. Total Capsulectomy – Many surgeons recommend en bloc removal, where the implant and scar tissue are removed together to minimize toxin exposure.
Detox & Healing – The body needs time to heal, and many women notice gradual improvements in energy, skin health, and mental clarity.
Breast Reconstruction Options – Some women opt for fat transfer or other natural methods to reshape their breasts post-explant.
A 2020 study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that women who had their implants removed saw measurable improvements in fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog within three months post-surgery.
Is Explant Surgery Right for You?
If you suspect your implants are impacting your health, it’s important to listen to your body. Here are some signs explant surgery might be the right choice:
You have persistent symptoms that doctors can’t explain.
You’ve developed an autoimmune condition after getting implants.
Your symptoms improve when you do detox protocols or anti-inflammatory diets.
You feel a strong gut instinct that your implants are affecting your well-being.
If you’re considering explant surgery, consult with a surgeon who specializes in explant procedures—not just implant removal. Experience matters, and choosing the right approach can impact your healing journey.
Your Health Comes First
For many women, breast implants were a decision made for confidence, self-love, or reconstruction. But if your body is sending signals that something isn’t right, it’s okay to reevaluate that choice.
The conversation around BII is growing, and while research is still developing, the stories of countless women reclaiming their health post-explant are impossible to ignore.
Trust your instincts. Advocate for your health. Know that healing is possible.
At Nourish Mode, we believe in whole-body wellness and informed choices. If you’re on the fence about explant surgery, remember—you are your best advocate. Listen to your body, seek the right support, and choose the path that feels best for YOU.
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