In 1992, the FDA barred silicone implants for cosmetic purposes, citing concerns about the inadequate long-term safety data for implants, including ruptures and the potential for systemic illness. The agency lifted the moratorium in 2006.
However, in the following years, thousands of implant recipients have complained of systemic symptoms they believe are due to an autoimmune response or silicon toxicity. Patients said their symptoms were dismissed as psychosomatic or coincidental, sparking some to organize and demand a more rigorous review of implant safety.
Two UCLA scientists, Kym Faull and Dr. Michael DeLong created a lab test to detect silicone implant ruptures. These ruptures are associated with many systemic symptoms known as breast implant illness.
Dr. Brenner is proud to be the only surgeon supplying this UCLA study with test patients. You can read more about this innovative test here.
Breast implant illness is rare but concerning
Breast implant illness (BII) is a collection of symptoms that could be associated with silicone and saline breast implants. While the cause isn’t known and isn’t yet recognized as an official medical diagnosis, BII may be related to autoimmune or inflammatory responses.
Healthcare providers diagnose BII by ruling out other conditions. Symptoms can begin after implant surgery or several years later. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Brain fog
- A rash
Other names for breast implant illness include:
- Breast implant disease
- Autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA)
- Silicone implant illness
Preliminary evidence in medical literature suggests that molecules in implants may be leaching out, potentially causing BII. While rupture rates are relatively low, the risk increases as the implants age, and most ruptures in silicone implants are “silent” or asymptomatic. Implant removal is currently the only solution to BII.
A lab test could represent an easier way to monitor breast implant safety
As breast implant safety gained growing attention, Dr. DeLong sought Faull’s assistance in developing a lab test to detect silicone metabolites leaking from an implant and serve as a method of identifying rupture. They hoped the test would be cheaper, more accurate, and less involved than the current MRI procedure. While the FDA recommends regular screenings for patients with silicone implants, the rate of patients adhering to this recommendation is low. A more accessible test would likely raise these rates and increase safety overall.
Dr. Brenner is committed to increasing cosmetic surgery safety
Because of his commitment to improving cosmetic surgery safety, Dr. Brenner is especially excited by the prospect of a lab test that would provide an easier way to monitor breast implant safety. He believes there is no substitution for experience and diligence when you have someone’s life and well-being in your hands.
Test creators Faull and Dr. DeLong have been working with Dr. Kevin Brenner to study patients experiencing symptoms related to breast implant illness. They hope to recruit more patients, so those interested in learning more about the study should contact Dr. DeLong.
If you believe you should remove your implants, Dr. Brenner is the best choice for breast implant removal in Beverly Hills. As a double-board-certified surgeon, he is praised for his clinical excellence and thorough communication with his patients. Schedule your initial consultation today.
