About Breast Implant Illness and En Bloc Removal of Implants

Some women choose to get breast implants to increase their self-confidence, while others want to fill out their silhouettes. At The Face & Body Center of Plastic and Hand Surgery Associates in the Jackson, MS, area, we offer cosmetic surgeries such as breast augmentation with medical-grade breast implants. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has ruled that saline and silicone gel implants are generally safe for use in breast augmentation, individuals should be aware of the possible risks and complications involved.

Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used by patients who present with certain symptoms and believe they are related to their breast implants. Dr. Stephen F. Davidson of The Face & Body Center offers information and resources for those struggling with breast implant illness and seeking treatment options. One such method is breast implant removal using a safe and effective technique called en bloc capsulectomy. Learn more by reading below and scheduling a consultation at our clinic in Flowood, MS.

Do I have breast implant illness?

In today’s world, everything is shared online, including the signs and symptoms of certain medical conditions. Every day, patients are taking to social media and online groups to discuss their personal experiences with breast implant illness. Many believe that this is caused by the body’s immune response to foreign materials in implants, but the exact cause has not yet been determined by the medical community. Often, breast implant illness leads to health issues including but not limited to headaches, joint pain, muscle aches, fatigue, and hair loss.

If you’re questioning whether you may have breast implant illness, it is best to get a medical evaluation by a skilled physician who can evaluate your medical history and conduct tests to determine the source of the issues. Many women choose to have their implants removed. To learn if breast implant removal is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Davidson or one of the talented surgeons at The Face & Body Center. During your appointment, we will discuss your concerns and options for surgery.

En bloc capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of the breast implants along with the capsule, or scar tissue. This is often the preferred technique for removal, since it minimizes the chances of rupturing the breast implant or disturbing the capsule, which could potentially cause problems. At The Face & Body Center, we stress that en bloc removal is a safe and appropriate alternative for many individuals who are concerned about breast implant illness. After surgery, the breast tissue and muscle settle back to their original position for a natural look.

Patients should know that removing the implants may make some changes to the soft tissue of the breasts. The skin may have stretched out to accommodate the implants, which means there may be some sagging or drooping following surgery. One option to correct this issue is a breast lift to remove excess skin and reposition the breast to create a higher appearance on the chest. During your initial consultation, ask whether en bloc removal and a breast lift are the right options to benefit your physical health and overall appearance.

Breast implant removal and recovery

Breast implant removal is performed in an outpatient setting at our facility in the Jackson, MS, area. The procedure requires general anesthesia and takes 2 – 3 hours to complete. The surgery is typically done using the previous breast augmentation incision sites, but Dr. Davidson may make an additional incision for en bloc capsulectomy. Once the implants have been removed, the incisions are closed and patients are carefully placed in a compression garment. In the recovery area, the patient will be able to rest and receive postoperative care.

Individuals in good health and at a stable weight are likely to heal from en bloc removal quickly and with 1 – 2 weeks of downtime. Light walking is encouraged shortly after breast surgery, as long as patients do not push themselves too hard or too soon. If you have questions about the healing process, talk to a member of our staff. Discomfort and swelling are expected, but prescription medications are available to ensure a comfortable recovery period. Schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Davidson at The Face & Body Center as needed to be cleared for regular exercise and other activities.

En bloc removal and more

“Do I have breast implant illness?” If you have begun to develop unexplained symptoms months or even years after initial augmentation surgery, you may be questioning whether you have this condition. It is important to bring your concerns to an experienced plastic surgeon who places your health and well-being first. The Face & Body Center was established to bring high-quality care and plastic surgery technology to the Flowood and Jackson, MS, areas. With a range of skills and specialties offered, our team can meet the unique needs of our patients. Schedule your consultation about breast implant illness and en bloc removal today.