Breast Implant Illness
The disease after insertion of breast implants (Breast Implant Illness) is a new, quite complex symptomatology. Some women report that they have noticed various changes in after receiving breast implants. These symptoms can be neurological or autoimmune, but they can also affect muscles and joints. Gastro-intestinal problems and cardiovascular disorders may also occur. Detailed data are not yet available.
A clear diagnosis of Breast Implant Illness is difficult. First the breasts and the implants must be examined. Also all other causes for the symptoms that have occurred must be excluded. This should be done together with the respective specialists. If no other cause can be found, it can be considered to remove the breast implants. The necessary incisions depend on the implants, the shape of the breast and the condition of the skin. We will discuss which incisions are the most suitable ones in a consultation.
The removal of the implants is performed under a short general anaesthesia. In any case, the aim is to remove the implant and the capsule around the implant completely and then to examine it histologically. In most cases it is necessary to tighten and reshape the existing breast tissue and skin, as the breast skin slackens due to the implant removal. Lipofilling (injection of the body's own fat tissue) can also be considered to increase volume. If necessary, small tubes (drains) are placed to drain off the wound water. Finally, the breasts are bandaged to minimize swelling.
The breasts are tense and painful for several days. The stitches dissolve themselves. The scars are initially firm and slightly reddened. However, light activities can be resumed after a few days. The swelling can last 4 to 8 weeks. During this time the breasts are often sensitive to touch. After about 3 months the breasts have reached their final shape and size. After about 6 months, the scars fade.
Acute complications are extremely rare. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks, such as bleeding, infection or wound healing disorders. Sometimes there is hypersensitivity or numbness of the nipples, which usually normalizes over time, but may be permanent in a few patients. The ability to breastfeed may be impaired. We will discuss the exact risks in detail during the consultation.
We will discuss the costs in a personal consultation.
BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESS IS
A NEW SYMPTOM COMPLEX
Contact
Please make a consultation appointment in advance. Appointments can be made by telephone, online or e-mail contact.
Prof. Dr. med. Hisham Fansa, MBA
Facharzt für Plastische, Rekonstruktive
und Ästhetische Chirurgie (FMH)
Head of Plastic Surgery
Address
Spital Zollikerberg
Trichtenhauserstrasse 20
CH-8125 Zollikerberg
Contact
Phone: +41 44 397 38 60
E-Mail: plast.chir@spitalzollikerberg.ch
www.spitalzollikerberg.ch