Understanding Breast Implant Illness (BII)

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness, often called BII, is a term used by patients and practitioners to describe a collection of symptoms that may develop after receiving breast implants—whether silicone or saline. These symptoms can appear months or even years after surgery and can affect many systems of the body.

Common Symptoms

BII can look different for everyone, but many women report a combination of the following:

Fatigue and low energy
Brain fog or memory issues
Joint or muscle pain
Hair loss or dry skin
Chronic inflammation or autoimmune flares
Anxiety, depression, or mood changes
Rashes or sensitivity to certain foods or chemicals
Digestive issues or bloating

Some patients also notice symptom improvement after implant removal (explant surgery), suggesting the immune system may be reacting to the implants or the surrounding capsule.

What Causes BII?

While research is still evolving, possible contributing factors include:

Immune system reaction to the implant material or biofilm (bacterial layer) that forms on the surface
Chronic inflammation and cytokine activation
Heavy metal exposure or silicone leakage
Hormonal and endocrine disruption
Toxic load and impaired detoxification pathways

No single test confirms BII—but a thorough medical history, lab testing for inflammation and toxicity, and careful listening to symptoms can help guide care.

Diagnosis and Holistic Evaluation

Because there’s no formal medical “test” for BII, diagnosis is based on clinical experience and patient history. At Valley Integrative Health, we focus on:

Comprehensive lab testing for inflammation, immune function, and toxins
Hormone and thyroid panels to identify related imbalances
Mold, metal, and infection screening if indicated
Whole-body detoxification support to ease the immune burden

Healing & Treatment Options

Recovery is different for each person, but many patients benefit from an integrative, multi-step approach:

Explant surgery (if appropriate) by a skilled surgeon who removes both the implant and capsule
Detoxification support using nutrients, antioxidants, and IV therapies like glutathione, ozone, or NAD+
Immune modulation with gentle supplements, peptides, or Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Restoring gut and hormone balance
Reducing inflammation through diet, lifestyle, and targeted therapies

With time and comprehensive care, many women experience improved energy, clearer thinking, and relief from chronic symptoms.

Whole-Body Recovery with Integrative Care

If you suspect Breast Implant Illness, you are not alone—and your symptoms are real. Healing requires addressing the root causes of inflammation and toxicity while supporting the body’s natural ability to restore balance.

At Valley Integrative Health, we combine advanced testing, evidence-based natural medicine, and compassionate guidance to help you reclaim your vitality.

Contact Valley Integrative Health Today

Devin Wilson, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Owner of Valley Integrative Health, LLC in Ashland, Oregon. With over a decade of clinical experience including 2 years of training with a John’s Hopkin’s/Yale Medical Doctor, Dr. Wilson combines naturopathic and modern medicine along with cutting-edge therapies. His enduring goal is to help people re-establish, maintain and optimize their health using a patient-centered and holistic approach.

📞 541-646-9186
🌐 www.VIHclinic.com
📍 1661 Hwy 99 N, Ste. 203-F, Ashland, Oregon 97520
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