Episode 26: Autoimmune Disease, Inflammation and Breast Implants

Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the body's immune system attacks its own healthy tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and other symptoms. And although there are case studies and research studies that link breast implants and autoimmune diseases, it is important to note that other factors should also be considered.

As concerns continue to be raised, we deem it necessary to further shed light on such a controversial topic on how autoimmune diseases relate to breast implants.

What causes autoimmunity?

Your body has a set of defenses that protects you. And when your immune system attacks your own cells, that's basically an autoimmune disease. Moreover, a combination of pre-existing genetic issues usually results in autoimmune diseases.

Autoimmune diseases have long been existing since the 1700s or 1800s. That is why we cannot entirely correlate these autoimmune diseases solely to breast implants, hip implants, knee implants, and even dental implants. They are thought to result from combinations involving genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. And as we continue to have more clinical research studies, we will further understand these diseases.

If you’re questioning if there are any tests that can be done to diagnose this, there are many tests like the anti-nuclear antibody test, autoantibody test, and C-reactive protein test, that have been available for many years now. These tests haven’t changed since then and it's quite concerning considering that many things have already evolved by now, even phones are very developed now.

If you get these tests done, have breast implants for whatever purpose, and experience any issues, you’re going to be referred to an immunologist, a rheumatologist, or a hematologist oncologist who will evaluate you to get to the underlying causes.

These specialists have expertise in diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases, immune system disorders, and related conditions. They may perform specific tests to evaluate immune system markers, antibodies, and cellular responses to identify any dysregulation or conduct further investigations to determine if there is an existing autoimmune disease.

How can we better reduce inflammation?

Reducing inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases is an important aspect of managing these conditions and improving overall well-being. In our program, we ensure that we get to trace the root cause of the issue so as to prevent or at least lessen inflammation caused by breast implants.

We consider many factors such as the patient’s family history, medical history, genetic predisposition, toxicities she has been exposed to, food sensitivities, and many more. We also take note of the type of implants in place and whether or not there has been more than one surgery that has resulted in complications.