How common is breast implant illness?

Breast implant illness remains difficult to quantify, as there is currently no official diagnostic test for the condition. This makes it challenging to determine exactly how many breast implant patients may experience symptoms linked to their implants. However, growing awareness is shedding light on its potential prevalence. A 2021 study found that 95% of respondents who had undergone breast implant surgery believed their implants were the cause of their health complaints, after experiencing symptoms associated with BII. While breast implant illness is still not fully understood, emerging evidence suggests it may be more common than previously recognised.

What are the symptoms of breast implant illness?

Symptoms caused by BII can vary significantly from person to person. They may begin shortly after surgery or develop gradually over several years, making the condition complex and often difficult to identify. While there is no official diagnostic criteria for BII, many people who have breast implants report a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms they believe are linked to their implants.

Some of the most commonly reported BII symptoms include:

• Persistent joint and muscle pain or aches.
• Ongoing fatigue or chronic fatigue that impacts daily life.
• Swelling or inflammation around the breast implant capsule.
• Cognitive difficulties, often described as ‘brain fog’.
• Shortness of breath or other breathing-related problems.
• Hormonal imbalances or irregularities.
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
• Unusual discharge from the implant site.
• Skin problems, such as rashes or irritation.
• Dry mouth and dry eyes.
• Feelings of anxiety or low mood, including depression.
• Frequent headaches or migraines.
• Noticeable hair thinning or hair loss.
• Digestive issues or gastrointestinal discomfort.
• A build-up of fluid around the implant (also known as seroma).

These symptoms may occur in isolation or as part of a wider pattern, and their intensity can range from mild to debilitating. Because BII is not formally recognised as a medical diagnosis, people experiencing these health concerns may find it difficult to get answers.

What action can you take?

If you are experiencing symptoms you believe may be related to Breast Implant Illness (BII), your first step should be to visit your GP to discuss your concerns. A medical assessment is essential to identify the cause of your symptoms and determine whether they may be linked to your implants.

It is also important to consider that your symptoms may stem from other medical issues. These possibilities should not be overlooked, and a full evaluation can help ensure you receive appropriate care.

How do you know if something is wrong with your breast implants?

You can’t claim compensation for BII symptoms, however there are circumstances you may be entitled to claim if you’re experiencing issues. Your surgeon is expected to follow certain standards before, during and after your surgery. If you're experiencing any of the following issues with your breast implants, your surgeon may have neglected their duty of care.

• Unexpected scarring: in areas not discussed prior to surgery, or that is significantly larger or more prominent than anticipated, may raise concerns - particularly if the extent or location was not properly explained during the consent process.
• Double bubble deformity: arises when an implant settles below the natural breast crease, creating a secondary fold or indentation. This may be associated with surgical error, including improper implant placement.
• Areola stretching: unintended enlargement of the areola may suggest a failure to account for breast tissue tension or to use appropriate techniques, such as a round block suture, during surgery.
• Infection: while a known risk of any surgical procedure and is not, in itself, evidence of negligence. However, where a medical professional fails to provide appropriate aftercare guidance, does not identify signs of infection during review appointments or delays treatment once symptoms are apparent, this may constitute negligent care.
• Symmastia: occurs when breast implants shift and cross the natural midline of the chest. This may indicate poor surgical technique or inadequate implant positioning.
• Persistent droopiness: where breast droopiness remains or worsens following surgery, it may suggest that the incorrect procedure was selected or performed, potentially pointing to errors in surgical judgement or planning.
• Waterfall deformity: also known as 'Snoopy nose', this occurs when natural breast tissue drops below the implant, creating a sloped appearance. This may result from suboptimal implant placement or surgical technique.
• Asymmetry: noticeable differences in breast size, shape, implant height or the position of the areolae may indicate inadequate surgical planning or poor execution during the procedure