Could You Have Breast Implant Illness? A Functional Nutrition Perspective

As a Functional Nutritionist, I believe in addressing the root causes of wellness challenges through a holistic lens. One topic that’s gaining attention, particularly among women, is Breast Implant Illness (BII)—a collection of symptoms some attribute to their breast implants. While not a formal medical diagnosis, BII is a real concern for many, and understanding it can empower you to make informed choices about your health.

Let’s dive into what BII is, how to recognize it, and steps you can take from a functional nutrition perspective.

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness refers to a wide range of symptoms that some women experience after getting breast implants, whether silicone or saline, textured or smooth. These symptoms can appear soon after surgery or years later, and they often mimic other conditions like autoimmune disorders or chronic fatigue syndrome. The medical community is still researching BII, and while studies are mixed—some show a link between implants and systemic symptoms—many women report significant improvements after implant removal.

Common Symptoms of BII

BII symptoms are diverse and can affect multiple systems in the body.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Fatigue: Feeling persistently drained, no matter how much you rest.

• Joint and Muscle Pain: Aches or stiffness that feel like fibromyalgia or arthritis.

• Brain Fog: Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, or feeling mentally “off.”

• Autoimmune-Like Symptoms: Rashes, hair loss, or symptoms resembling lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Mood Changes: Anxiety, depression, or irritability without a clear cause.

• Digestive Issues: Bloating, food sensitivities, or other gut problems.

• Local Issues: Breast pain, swelling, or hardening around the implant (capsular contracture).

If these sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many women describe these symptoms as frustratingly vague, making it hard to pinpoint the cause.

How to Know If You Have BII

Since there’s no specific test for BII, identifying it involves a process of elimination and self-advocacy. Here’s how to start:

1. Track Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of what you’re experiencing, when symptoms started, and how they’ve progressed. Note if they began or worsened after getting implants. This can help you and your healthcare provider spot patterns.

2. Consult a Trusted Provider: Work with a doctor knowledgeable about BII, such as a functional medicine practitioner, plastic surgeon, or rheumatologist. They can:

   • Review your medical history and implant details.

   • Order tests to rule out other conditions like thyroid dysfunction, autoimmune diseases, or infections.

3. Consider Imaging: An MRI or ultrasound can check for implant complications like rupture or leakage, which may contribute to symptoms.

4. Explore Explantation: Some women find relief after removing their implants (explantation). Discuss this option with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in en bloc removal, where the implant and surrounding capsule are taken out intact.

5. Support Your Body Holistically: From a functional nutrition standpoint, addressing inflammation, gut health, and detoxification pathways can complement your journey. We’ll cover this more below.

Why Is BII So Hard to Pinpoint?

BII is tricky because its symptoms overlap with many other conditions, from menopause to chronic stress. Plus, research is still evolving. For example, a 2021 study noted higher rates of autoimmune-like symptoms in women with implants, but a 2019 FDA analysis found no definitive link. Without a clear diagnostic test, you’ll need to advocate for yourself and work with providers who listen.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Some symptoms warrant immediate attention. Contact a doctor right away if you notice:

• Sudden breast swelling, redness, or pain (possible infection or rupture).

• Lumps or masses (to rule out breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, a rare cancer linked to textured implants).

• Severe symptoms like fever, rapid weight loss, or debilitating fatigue.

A Functional Nutrition Approach to BII

At What Is Health, I view BII as an opportunity to support your body’s natural healing processes. While explantation may be a key step for some, optimizing nutrition and lifestyle can make a difference whether you keep your implants or pursue removal. Here’s how:

1. Reduce Inflammation: Chronic inflammation may amplify BII symptoms. Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like wild-caught fish, leafy greens, berries, and turmeric. Limit processed foods, sugar, and inflammatory oils (like canola or soybean oil).

2. Support Detoxification: Implants may introduce stressors to your body, so bolster your liver and lymphatic system. Your liver, kidneys, lymph, and skin all play key roles in removing toxins and hormone metabolites from the body. Implants may introduce additional stressors over time, so it’s important to support these systems daily. Stay hydrated, eat cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale), and consider herbs like milk thistle (with your doctor’s approval).

3. Heal Your Gut: Many BII symptoms, like brain fog or fatigue, tie back to gut health. A disrupted gut microbiome or intestinal permeability (leaky gut) can trigger systemic inflammation and immune dysregulation. In some cases, gut testing may be helpful to uncover hidden infections, dysbiosis, or inflammation. As a functional nutritionist, I work with clients to personalize this process based on their symptoms and test results. Also, incorporating fermented foods (kombucha, sauerkraut), bone broth, and prebiotic fibers (asparagus, onions) can support a healthy microbiome.

4. Balance Hormones: Breast implants can influence hormonal pathways by increasing your body’s toxic load and altering immune function. This can contribute to estrogen dominance, low progesterone, thyroid disruption, or cortisol imbalances—all of which impact mood, energy, and metabolism. Implants may disrupt hormonal pathways, contributing to mood swings or fatigue. Support hormone health with adequate sleep, stress management (think yoga, meditation, breathing exercises), as well as a nutrient-dense diet that supports blood sugar and provide key nutrients your body needs.

5. Address Nutrient Deficiencies: Chronic symptoms can deplete key nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, or B vitamins. Testing can help identify what your body specifically needs. Supplementing without guessing ensures you're giving your body the right tools to heal and restore balance.

The Emotional Side of BII

Suspecting BII can bring up anxiety, frustration, or even grief about your implants. These feelings are valid. Connecting with a therapist or support group can help, as can joining online communities where women share their BII journeys.

Taking the Next Step

If you suspect BII, start by partnering with a healthcare provider who takes your concerns seriously. A functional nutritionist, I can complement this by creating a personalized plan to reduce inflammation, support detoxification, and restore balance. If you’re considering explantation, research surgeons carefully and weigh the pros and cons.

Your body has an incredible capacity to heal when given the right support. At What Is Health, I'm here to guide you toward vibrant wellness, whether you’re navigating BII or other challenges. Ready to take control of your health? Book a consultation with me today!

*Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment options.*