Technical Explanation of the Condition
Breast implant illness Sydney refers to patient-reported symptoms that some individuals associate with breast implants. BII is not a single formally defined medical diagnosis, and symptoms can vary widely between patients. However, some patients experience a collection of systemic symptoms and seek specialist assessment to discuss potential implant-related factors and management options.
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) provides consultation for patients with implant-related concerns and discusses evidence-based surgical options, including breast implant removal and revision planning where appropriate. Importantly, symptoms may have multiple potential causes, and outcomes vary between individuals.
Common Symptoms Reported by Patients
Symptoms reported by some patients may include:
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fatigue
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brain fog
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muscle or joint aches
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rashes or skin irritation
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anxiety or mood changes
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sleep disturbance
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hair thinning
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unexplained inflammation symptoms
However, these symptoms may also be associated with other health conditions. For this reason, careful assessment and appropriate referral may be relevant.
Clinical Assessment and Investigation
During consultation, Dr Tim discusses:
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implant history and prior surgery details
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implant type, age, and implant position
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breast examination and capsule characteristics
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imaging where clinically indicated
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whether additional medical investigation is appropriate
This ensures that patients receive safe guidance and realistic counselling.
Surgical Options (Selected Patients)
1) Breast Implant Removal (Explantation)
Some patients request breast implant removal as part of BII management. Explantation can be performed with or without replacement implants, depending on goals.
2) Capsulectomy (When Indicated)
In selected cases, removal of capsule tissue may be discussed. The safest approach depends on:
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capsule thickness and implant location
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anatomy and risk profile
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surgical history and scarring
This is also relevant for patients with firm capsules or distortion (see capsular contracture treatment).
3) Breast Lift (If Needed After Implant Removal)
After implant removal, some patients experience skin laxity or reduced tissue support. Therefore, Dr Tim may discuss a breast lift (mastopexy) or breast asymmetry correction either at the time of explantation or in a staged manner.
Expected Outcomes and Important Considerations
Some patients report symptom improvement after implant removal. However:
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outcomes vary
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improvement cannot be guaranteed
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other underlying medical conditions may contribute to symptoms
For this reason, Dr Tim focuses on detailed informed consent and safe surgical planning.
Related Procedures
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.
