Episode 29

Healing Breast Implant Illness: Latest Research and Treatment

00:00:00
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00:08:18

August 3rd, 2023

8 mins 18 secs

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About this Episode

Due to limited resources and research studies related to breast implant illness and considering that it remains to be unrecognized as an official diagnosis by many in the medical field, many patients suffering from the condition are left untreated worsening symptoms. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, cognitive issues, and other systemic complaints.

As we aim to continue raising awareness and advocating for more research on breast implant illness, we help shine a light on the experiences of affected individuals and help lead people to a better understanding of these potential health issues in the future. That is why it is important for us to discuss today’s treatment options for breast implant illness.

Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program

We developed an entire program called Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program so that many patients both in Austin, TX, and even out of state, can participate and get the help they need. Our program is founded on genetic testing, toxicity testing, food sensitivities, stool testing, and evaluation of your hormones, liver, kidney, and thyroid function. We use these evaluations to identify any symptoms of breast implant illness.

The results we get from these tests are used to start working on any deficiencies or problems, particularly in the immune system pathways of the patient. To improve the condition of the patient, we make sure to incorporate an appropriate and healthy diet, lifestyle changes, and supplementation.

Conducting a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s medical history, current condition, and any other specific concerns she may have is a must in understanding their different needs/conditions and allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan.

We always want the best for our patients, which is why we do the best we can to set them up for success. I have been doing this for six years now, going on my seventh year, and it’s been a long journey for me but I have been feeling fulfilled being able to help people advance in recovery.

How do you prepare for surgery?

Many patients worry too much about their surgery and I’m not saying that it’s wrong. Sometimes, they just need to be reassured by their qualified plastic surgeon about the operations they’ll undergo. As qualified providers, it is our responsibility to address these concerns and to provide patients with the information and reassurance they need to feel more at ease about their surgery.

Patients have the right to be informed about the details of their surgery, including the procedure itself, potential risks and complications, expected outcomes, and the recovery process. Transparent and open communication not only empowers patients to make well-informed decisions, but it also helps to build trust between the patient and the qualified plastic surgeon.

Personally, I encourage my patients to alter their diets and increase their protein intake before surgery to put them in their best condition. We call that ‘nitrogen balance’. It helps someone to go from the stress response of surgery to a healing phase.

We also do fat transfers to offset any appearance changes and reshape the affected areas of the breasts. Also, in relation to treatment, it’s beneficial to have a healthy and supportive circle. At present, I have two team members in my group who have had explants and suffered from breast implant illness, which is why their support for our clients comes from firsthand experience. They’re good at providing a great deal of emotional support.

Keep in mind that explant surgery, or breast implant removal, is not the only solution. Patients can also look into doing our Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program and take into account many factors affecting one’s conditions or triggering any symptoms of breast implant illness.

Links and Resources
Dr. Robert Whitfield’s Website