In recent years, reports of breast implants potentially causing health problems in some individuals have come to light due to increased media attention. Breast implant illness (BII) is a constellation of health symptoms attributed to an inflammatory reaction to breast implants in some patients. Our practice is committed to safety first and foremost. We have extensive experience performing explant surgery with and without breast lifts, as well as with fat transfer for volume enhancement.
Our plastic surgeons have completed over 200 explant surgeries this past year alone. We have embarked on our own data analysis to enhance women’s health and shed light on an issue that concerns many. While further scientific research is needed on the connection between breast implants and systemic illnesses, Atlanta Plastic and Reconstructive Specialists is committed to helping all breast augmentation patients — both new patients and those previously treated — who are unhappy with their implants or their size, or who have severe capsular contractures, failed devices, or malposition. We also seek to help those who believe their health symptoms are related to BII.
Breast implant removal patients at Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists are supported by a team led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Bahair Ghazi, Dr. John D. Symbas, and Dr. Kendall Brooks. With advanced training from Emory University and the University of Virginia, they bring decades of experience in breast surgery and reconstruction and a nuanced understanding of the unique considerations involved in explant care. Working alongside compassionate physician assistants, clinical nurses, and anesthesia professionals, the team provides clear communication, steady support, and thoughtful guidance throughout the process. Procedures are performed in our AAAHC-accredited surgical center, where patient safety, privacy, and comfort remain the foundation of every experience.
Symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII)
The plastic surgeons at Atlanta Plastic and Reconstructive Specialists meet with each patient individually to discuss their concerns regarding their breasts. While there is no diagnostic testing specific to BII, our plastic surgeons take patients’ concerns very seriously and do their utmost to help women restore their health and well-being. Many women have few symptoms with breast implants, but we also acknowledge that some do. Listening and understanding is a priority. Some (but not all) possible symptoms of BII, as reported in the literature, include the following:
- Muscle pain and weakness.
- Fatigue and lack of energy.
- Chest pain.
- Hair loss.
- Headaches.
- Chills, fever, night sweats.
- Cognitive dysfunction (e.g., memory loss, difficulty concentrating).
- Chronic inflammation.
- Numbness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Photosensitivity.
- Dry eye.
- Body odor.
- Depression.
- Low libido.
- Vertigo.
- Yeast infection.
- Gastrointestinal problems.
- Poor sleep and/or insomnia.
- Ear ringing.
- Pancreatitis.
- Back and neck pain.
- Skin rashes.
- Frequent urination.
- Liver or kidney dysfunction.
- Irritable bowel or bladder.
- Headaches and dizziness.
- Symptoms of hypo- or hyperthyroid.
- Symptoms of hypo- or hyper-adrenal.
The Breast Explant Procedure
There are several approaches to breast explantation. We strive to meet the highest standards of care by performing detailed clinical exams and full medical inquiries. We are your doctors, and your health is a priority. We often ask that you have had significant screening by your primary care team. Furthermore, we may ask you to do additional imaging laboratory testing and preoperative workups based on your history. We want each patient to be as healthy as possible for the upcoming surgery. The first method involves simply removing the implant, while the second method removes the implant and the capsule that holds the implant. A third method is the total capsulectomy technique. Total capsulectomy essentially means “as one” and involves removing the implant while it is still inside the capsule, so the two are removed together. The total capsulectomy technique is the preferred choice for explanting a known ruptured silicone device to prevent contamination of the pocket and or field, as free silicone in tissue can lead to granulomas. Many studies are examining the extent of capsulectomy and the resolution of BII symptoms.
Breast explant surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. APRS manages a unique, fully accredited surgery center of explant excellence, having cared for hundreds of explant patients with a board-certified anesthesiologist always present for one-to-one care. Incisions are usually made along the lower fold of the breast or around the areola. In some cases, a breast lift is performed to address loose skin that has stretched out to accommodate the implant. Returning your breast to a beautiful shape is important and takes experience. Other techniques (e.g., breast reduction, fat transfer to the breast) can be performed to create an aesthetically pleasing shape and appearance after breast implant removal.
Drains will be placed to prevent fluid accumulation (seroma), swelling, and tissue settling. The drains will remain in place for a week.
To learn more about breast implant illness or breast explant surgery, contact Atlanta Plastic and Reconstructive Specialists today. Trust your results to the experience of our surgeons.
Why Choose Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists
Choosing the right team for breast implant removal and reconstruction means trusting specialists who prioritize health, clarity, and natural‑looking outcomes. Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists provides a level of care shaped by experience, safety, and a deep commitment to supporting patients through every stage of their explant journey.
Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists blends surgical expertise with compassionate, patient‑centered care to help individuals feel supported, understood, and restored.
Schedule a Consultation in Alpharetta or Buckhead
Ready to remove your implants safely and restore confidence?
Contact Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists to schedule your consultation at our Alpharetta office (404) 255-2975 or Buckhead office (404) 343-0897 today.