Breast Procedures

Breast Implant Illness and Negative Impacts to Look Out For

BY BLISS TEAM,  
July 17, 2025

Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, with millions of women choosing implants to enhance their shape and confidence. But in recent years, there's been a growing conversation about breast implant illness and the potential risks of breast implants; a conversation fueled by patients, advocacy groups, and a shift toward transparency in cosmetic surgery.

It’s important to understand that not everyone who has breast implants will experience complications. Many people go decades without issue. However, growing awareness of breast implant disease, more specifically breast implant side effects, has led to more proactive monitoring and conversations around explant surgery and long-term care. That being said, we’ve broken it all down for you in this blog…

What is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness, also known as BII, is a term used to describe a wide range of symptoms that some individuals experience after receiving breast implants. Although BII is not an official medical diagnosis, it’s a real and growing concern for many patients.

BII is believed to stem from several possible causes, such as:

  • An autoimmune response to implants.
  • Chronic inflammation in response to a foreign object.
  • Silicone leakage, even from intact implants (known as “gel bleed”).
  • Reactions to the implant shell or surgical materials.

While research is still ongoing, patient experiences are leading many plastic surgeons to take this condition more seriously.

Common Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness and Warning Signs

BII symptoms can appear months or even years after surgery. Some of the most reported issues include:

  • Fatigue or low energy,
  • Brain fog and memory issues,
  • Joint and muscle pain,
  • Unexplained hair loss,
  • Skin rashes or chronic itching,
  • Mood changes, anxiety, or depression,
  • Weight fluctuations without lifestyle changes,
  • Breast pain, tightness, or hardening,
  • Among other, more personalized concerns… 

Because these symptoms are non-specific, BII can be difficult to diagnose, and it’s often overlooked or misattributed to other conditions. That’s why being aware of and listening to your body is key.

Medical Complications of Breast Implants to Be Aware of

In addition to systemic symptoms, there are recognized breast implant complications that can affect both your health and your cosmetic results. Some include:

  • Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue tightens around the implant, producing pain or deformity.
  • Rupture or Leakage: Saline deflates clearly in older implants, whereas silicone may leak silently.
  • Chronic Inflammation: May present as ongoing discomfort or systemic symptoms.
  • Silicone Granulomas: A reaction to free silicone, which can cause painful lumps in breast tissue or lymph nodes.

These complications can happen with both saline and silicone implants, but textured and older types are more prone to problems. If you’re wanting to learn more about breast implants, check out our detailed Breast Implants page. 

Who Is at Higher Risk of Developing Breast Implant Disease?

While everyone with implants could experience symptoms, some people may be more vulnerable, including:

  • Individuals with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, Hashimoto's, and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Individuals with a history of allergies or chemical sensitivities.
  • Individuals with textured implants have been linked to a rare cancer called BIA-ALCL.
  • Individuals with older implants are more prone to rupture or leakage.

If you fall into one of these categories, speak with your provider about the risks and monitoring options.

What to Do If You Suspect Implant Disease

If you're experiencing unexplained symptoms and suspect breast implant illness, here’s what to do:

  1. Consult a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced with BII cases.
  2. Request imaging, such as MRI or high-resolution ultrasound, to assess for rupture or inflammation.
  3. Ask about blood work to identify autoimmune activity or infection.
  4. Discuss explant surgery as an option to remove the implants and the surrounding capsule if necessary.
  5. Listen to your body, you know when something doesn’t feel right.

It’s important not to dismiss persistent symptoms, even if your implants appear fine externally.

Prevention and Breast Implant Monitoring Tips

While not all risks can be eliminated, there are ways to stay proactive and informed, such as:

  • Schedule regular follow-ups with your surgeon
  • Get MRI or ultrasound screenings every 5 to 10 years for silicone implants
  • Stay alert to new or worsening symptoms
  • Keep a timeline of your implants, know when they were placed, and what type
  • Discuss replacement or removal timelines if you’re approaching 10 to 15 years post-op

Wondering when implants should be replaced? We’ve got everything you need to know in this blog: Longevity of Breast Implants

Avoid the Risks With Bliss

At Bliss, we’re committed to patient-first care. That means giving you access to surgeons who understand the complexity of breast implant illness, offer clear, compassionate guidance, and help you decide whether to monitor, exchange, or remove your implants.

Whether you’re seeking answers, exploring explant surgery, or simply want to feel more confident in your choices, Bliss is here to support you. Take our questionnaire to open your profile today.

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