A Journey Through Breast Implant Illness: One Woman’s Triumph Over Undead Adversity
In 2011, at the age of 35, a vivacious woman made the decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery. Opting for 300cc implants, she tried to boost her image and self-confidence. Little did she know that her life would take an unexpected and painful turn, leading her down a path of pain, fatigue and depression. This is the story of her battle with breast implant disease (BII) and her eventual victory over a little-known opponent.
The onset of the mysterious symptoms
After surgery directly on the implant, the woman began experiencing a series of unexplained health problems. Initially dismissed as mere side effects, the symptoms gradually worsened. Crippling pain, debilitating fatigue and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness became her constant companions. She found herself struggling to maintain her once active lifestyle, career and relationships.
The medical community was puzzled by her case, as her symptoms seemed to defy explanation. It wasn’t until she developed a capsule — a hardening of the scar tissue around the implant — that she began to suspect a connection between her health problems and her breast implants.
The discovery of breast implant disease
After years of suffering in silence, the woman came across a community of women who shared her experiences. They talked about a condition known as breast implant illness (BII) – a constellation of symptoms that seemed to be linked to breast implants. With a new determination, she delved into the research and found that her symptoms – allergic attacks, pain, vomiting, IBS, brain fog and milky discharge – were all consistent with BII.
Armed with this knowledge, she sought the help of a surgeon who specialized in removing breast implants. Dr. Rankin, a trusted and experienced surgeon, agreed to perform the procedure. The woman felt a glimmer of hope, knowing she was taking an important step toward regaining her health and life.
The road to recovery and defense
The implant operation was successful and the woman felt immediate relief. Her symptoms began to disappear and she slowly began to regain her strength and vitality. For the first time in years, she could sleep comfortably on her stomach, without pain or discomfort.
Now, three years after her implant surgery, the woman has become an advocate for BII awareness. She shares her story on the website RealSelf, hoping it will reach other women who may be suffering in silence. Alongside her personal account, the site includes reviews from other women who have had breast implant removal, as well as information on average costs and recovery time.
In 2023, the FDA issued a boxed warning for breast implants citing their potential negative health effects. The woman’s journey played a small but important role in raising awareness about the risks associated with breast implants and the importance of informed consent.
As she continues to heal and rebuild her life, the woman remains grateful for the strength and resilience she found within herself during her darkest days. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the face of adversity, hope and healing are always possible.
The triumph of hope over adversity
From the initial decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery to the eventual discovery of breast implant disease (BII), this woman’s journey has been one of resilience and determination. After experiencing a myriad of unexplained health problems and enduring years of pain and discomfort, she found the strength to seek answers and regain her health.
Today, she stands as a beacon of hope for others who may suffer in silence, offering a powerful reminder that knowledge is power and that healing is possible. Her story contributed to the growing awareness of BII and the potential risks associated with breast implants, prompting the FDA to issue a boxed warning about their use. As she moves forward, the woman continues to inspire and educate others, proving that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit remains indomitable.
