Understanding Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used by patients to describe a range of systemic symptoms that they believe to be associated with their breast implants. These symptoms commonly include fatigue, brain fog, joint and muscle pain, hair loss, anxiety, dry eyes, rashes and a general feeling of not being well. The symptoms can develop at any point after implant placement — sometimes many years later.
Research into BII is still evolving and the mechanisms are not fully understood. However, many women report significant and sometimes dramatic improvement in their symptoms following explantation (removal of the implants) with capsulectomy. Mr. Blackburn takes these symptoms seriously and will listen carefully at consultation, without dismissing what you have experienced.
If you are experiencing symptoms you believe may be related to your implants, you do not need a specific diagnosis before seeking consultation. Mr. Blackburn sees patients across the full spectrum — those with confirmed BII, those with concerns about implant rupture, and those who simply wish to have their implants removed for personal reasons.
Implant Removal with Capsulectomy
Every breast implant develops a scar tissue capsule around it over time. In patients with BII or implant-related concerns, removal of the implant together with its surrounding capsule — a total capsulectomy — is generally recommended to give the best chance of symptom improvement.
Mr. Blackburn is experienced in the safe removal of breast implants and their capsules, including in technically challenging cases where capsules are adherent to surrounding structures. He will discuss the surgical approach, the extent of capsule removal, and any additional procedures at consultation.
Restoring Breast Shape After Removal
Implant removal frequently causes a degree of breast deflation and ptosis (drooping), particularly when implants have been in place for many years. Many patients choose to have mastopexy (breast uplift) and/or fat grafting performed at the same time as explantation, to restore a natural breast shape and contour without returning to implants.
Mr. Blackburn plans each case individually, discussing the realistic outcome of removal alone versus removal combined with mastopexy and fat grafting, and helping each patient make an informed decision that feels right for them.
- Expert implant removal with capsulectomy
- Compassionate, non-judgemental management of BII symptoms
- Combined mastopexy and fat grafting available to restore shape
- Personalised planning for the best possible natural result
- New Victoria Hospital Kingston & Mount Alvernia Guildford