Breast Implants, Explant Surgery, and Breast Implant Illness with Robert Whitfield MD - Episodes Tagged with “Joint Pain”

Episode 131: Why Natalie Jill Removed Her Implants After 33 Years

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Dr. Robert Whitfield speaks with Natalie Jill about her 33-year experience with breast implants, sharing the ups and downs, health issues, and emotional struggles she’s faced along the way. They discuss the medical risks, such as capsular contracture and bacterial contamination, and emphasize the importance of being informed. They really stress the value of awareness, making thoughtful decisions, and taking a holistic approach to health, especially for women who are thinking about getting implants or already have them. Tune in to hear about putting your well-being first and not hesitating to reach out for support if you think you may be dealing with breast implant-related health concerns.

Bio: Natalie Jill

Natalie Jill is a Midlife Expert who helps women simplify complicated health topics and redefine healthy aging. With a top-rated podcast “Midlife Conversations”, two best-selling Fat Loss Books that sold out in stores everywhere, and numerous TV appearances on shows like “The Doctors”, she built a high 7-figure Fat Loss business that transformed over 250,000 women's bodies and health. Over 50 years old herself, she is changing conversations around age, potential, and possibility! In addition to her Midlife Fat Loss Business, she helps founders, executives, and CEOs skyrocket their sales and find more money through upleveling their vision, dialing in their messaging, expanding their brand online, and fixing their sales and webinar conversion process. She used the exact methods she teaches to grow her globally recognized fat loss and fitness brand with well over 3 million social media followers worldwide, two best-selling books, a top-ranked podcast, and recognition from Forbes and Greatist several years running as one of the top health and wellness influencers in the world. Download Your Post-Surgical Recovery Guideand Download Your Age Optimizing Supplement Guide

Show Highlights:

Natalie’s 33-Year Breast Implant Journey Begins (00:02:12) Natalie describes getting implants at 19, her initial motivations, and the start of her long history with complications.
First Major Complication: Silicone Rupture and Autoimmune Issues (00:03:57) The first implant rupture, the resulting health issues, and the connection to her autoimmune diagnosis
Recurring Capsular Contracture and Surgical Interventions (00:04:06) **Repeated capsular contracture, multiple surgeries, and lack of awareness about bacterial contamination
**Blood Sugar Dysregulation and Parasite Protocol (00:12:13) Severe blood sugar issues, gut health, and a parasite protocol
Discovery of Ruptured Gummy Bear Implant (00:14:24) **Mammogram reveals a ruptured implant, leading to further testing and the decision to remove it
**Cultural Pressures and Body Image Trends (00:25:39) **Natalie and Dr. Whitfield reflect on changing beauty standards, media influence, and societal pressures on women.
**Genetics, Detoxification, and Environmental Toxins (00:31:19) Dr. Whitfield discusses genetic factors in detoxification, environmental toxins, and comprehensive patient care.
Prioritizing Health Interventions and Toxin Removal (00:35:00) Prioritizing health interventions, amalgam removal, and the importance of detox pathways

Links and Resources

Let’s Connect
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/breast-implant-illness/id1678143554
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1SPDripbluZKYsC0rwrBdb?si=23ea2cd9f6734667
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drrobertwhitfield?_t=8oQyjO25X5i&_r=1
IG: https://www.instagram.com/breastimplantillnessexpert/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/DrRobertWhitfield
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robert-whitfield-md-50775b10/
X: https://x.com/rob_whitfieldmd
Read this article - https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction/types/implant-reconstruction/illness/breast-implant-illness
Shop: https://drrobssolutions.com
SHARP: https://www.harp.health
NVISN Labs - https://nvisnlabs.com/

Get access to Dr. Rob's Favorite Products below:

Danger Coffee - Use our link for mold free coffee - https://dangercoffee.com/pages/mold-free-coffee?ref=ztvhyjg
JASPR Air Purifier - Use code DRROB for the Jaspr Air Purifier - https://jaspr.co/
Echo Water - Get high quality water with our code DRROB10 - https://echowater.com/
BallancerPro - Use code DRROBVIP for the world's leader in lymphatic drainage technology - https://ballancerpro.com
Ultrahuman - Use code WHITFIELD10 for the most accurate wearable - https://www.ultrahuman.com/ring/buy/us/?affiliateCode=drwhitfield

Episode 120: Top Signs Your Breast Implants May Be Making You Sick with Dr. Micah Pittman

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0400

In today’s episode, Dr. Robert Whitfield and Dr. Micah Pittman, a chiropractor with a background in neuroscience and biochemistry, discuss breast implant illness (BII). Dr. Pittman shares his wife Shiloh's journey, detailing her symptoms like autoimmune issues and joint pain, and her significant health improvements post-explant surgery. They explore the potential causes of BII, including implant degradation and bacterial contamination. Tune in to hear about the importance of holistic health practices, emotional support, and informed decision-making for women considering explant surgery to address BII symptoms.

Bio: Dr. Micah Pittman

Dr. Micah Pittman has had an exciting career in natural health care. He spent several years in Abu Dhabi/Dubai, training and treating fellow martial artists, as well as elite members of the government. He comes from a family of chiropractors and has practiced in San Diego, Los Angeles, Abu Dhabi, Seattle, and now, is happy to call Lakeway, TX, home.

Connect with Dr. Pittman - 620 Chiropractic

Show Highlights:

Autoimmune Dysfunction Correlation (00:07:15)
Correlation between breast implants and autoimmune disorders in patients
Impact of Diet and Implants (00:10:30)
Diet’s impact on health issues in patients
Intra-cavity Pressure Effects (00:11:17)
Intra-cavity pressure from implants on nerve roots and overall health
Lymphatic Congestion (00:12:19)
Lymphatic drainage issues related to breast implants
Surgical Observations (00:13:14)
Dr. Whitfield shares observations on tissue changes during explant surgeries.
Chronic Inflammation and Pathology (00:14:21)
Chronic inflammation that is observed in patients post-surgery
Bacterial Growth and Leakage (00:14:35)
Bacterial contamination related to implant leakage and its health effects
Discussion on Implants and Infections (00:38:05)
Dr. Whitfield explains the risks of infections and chronic inflammation associated with implants.

Links and Resources

Get access to Dr. Rob's Favorite Products below:

Episode 104: A Holistic Approach to Joint Pain and Mobility with Dr. Joshua Schacter

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Today, Dr. Robert Whitfield chats with Dr. Joshua Schacter, an orthopedic surgeon based in Wichita Falls. They dive into how functional medicine can be woven into orthopedic practices, especially when it comes to joint health and how our lifestyle choices affect our musculoskeletal system. Dr. Schacter is all about taking a holistic approach, looking at the bigger picture by tackling underlying health issues like inflammation and metabolic health to help avoid major surgeries. They talk about making changes to your diet, exploring cutting-edge treatments like PRP and stem cell therapy, and how mindfulness can play a role in managing pain. Tune in to hear about a shift in orthopedic care, including more comprehensive, patient-focused practices.

Show Highlights:

Focus on Joint Pain (00:06:38)
Multifactorial nature of joint pain and its commonality in aging
Pharmaceutical Companies' Interests (00:10:43)
Skepticism about the altruism of pharmaceutical companies concerning health improvements
Trends in Joint Replacements (00:13:04)
Discussion on the increasing number of joint replacements in younger patients
Weight Loss and Joint Health (00:22:20)
Importance of weight loss in improving joint health and reducing pain
Functional Medicine Approach (00:23:45)
Introduction to a holistic assessment of patients to understand underlying causes of joint pain
Measuring Inflammation (00:25:15)
Methods for assessing inflammation, including historical data and biomarkers
Biomarkers and Gut Health (00:25:36)
Details the use of various biomarkers and the critical role of gut health
Anti-Inflammatory Diet (00:27:01)
Effectiveness of an anti-inflammatory diet in reducing joint pain
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy (00:30:51)
Benefits of PRP therapy for joint inflammation and healing
Optimizing Joint Care (00:38:34)
The potential to prevent unnecessary surgeries through holistic joint care strategies

Bio: Dr. Josh Schacter

Dr. Joshua Schacter, DO FAAOS, is America’s Holistic Orthopedic Surgeon, dedicated to providing alternatives to surgery, steroids, and prescription medications. With nearly 20 years of experience and over 15,000 surgeries performed, he has seen the limitations of traditional medicine firsthand. In 2023, he founded Pinnacle Integrative Orthopedics, combining functional medicine with advanced orthobiologics to treat patients holistically. Dr. Schacter focuses on empowering patients to manage joint pain, regain mobility, and avoid invasive treatments. A passionate athlete and fitness enthusiast, he is committed to offering innovative, minimally invasive solutions that promote longevity and a better quality of life.

Connect with Dr. Schacter

Call Pinnacle Integrative Sports Medicine
(940) 285-5007
Website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, [Bluesky](http://@drjoshuaschacter.bsky.social)

Let’s Connect...

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/breast-implant-illness/id1678143554
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1SPDripbluZKYsC0rwrBdb?si=23ea2cd9f6734667
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drrobertwhitfield?_t=8oQyjO25X5i&_r=1
IG: https://www.instagram.com/breastimplantillnessexpert/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/DrRobertWhitfield
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robert-whitfield-md-50775b10/
X: https://x.com/rob_whitfieldmd
Read this article - https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction/types/implant-reconstruction/illness/breast-implant-illness
Shop: https://drrobssolutions.com
SHARP: https://www.harp.health
NVISN Labs - https://nvisnlabs.com/

Get access to Dr. Rob's Favorite Products below:

Episode 101: Dr. Rob Whitfield Explains Breast Implant Illness and the SHARP Program

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0500

We have a fantastic solo episode today with Dr. Rob Whitfield, a board-certified plastic surgeon who's here to shed some light on breast implant illness, or BII, and how it's managed.

Dr. Whitfield kicks things off by introducing us to the SHARP program. This isn't just any program; it's all about tackling chronic inflammation. How, you ask? Through some pretty cool methods like genetic testing, checking out environmental toxins, and making sure your gut health is in tip-top shape.

We dive into the nitty-gritty of BII symptoms and why it's crucial to remove the entire implant capsule during explant surgery. Dr. Whitfield also shares some eye-opening research on how bacterial contamination might be linked to BII.

But it's not just about the ****science. Dr. Whitfield is all about empowering women with the knowledge and resources they need. Whether you're thinking about explant surgery or are on the road to recovery, he's got your back with support and encouragement for proactive health management.

So, grab your headphones and get comfy—this is an episode you won't want to miss!

Show Highlights

Introduction to Breast Implant Illness (00:00:03)
Breast implant illness and its impact on women's health
Overview of the SHARP Program (00:01:25)
Explanation of the SHARP program for managing chronic inflammation related to breast implants
Genetic Testing and MTHFR (00:02:34)
Discussion on genetic testing and the role of MTHFR in nutrient utilization and inflammation
Environmental Toxins (00:03:39)
Insight into environmental toxins like glyphosate and their effects on health
Mycotoxins and Mold Sensitivity (00:04:48)
Exploration of mycotoxins from mold and their impact on patients' health
Heavy Metals and Gut Health (00:04:48)
Importance of testing for heavy metals and assessing gut health pre-operatively
Chronic Inflammatory Symptoms (00:08:13)
Overview of common symptoms associated with breast implant illness and chronic inflammation
Research on Bacterial Contamination (00:09:21)
Recent studies showing the link between bacterial contamination and breast implant illness symptoms
Aesthetic Considerations in Explant Surgery (00:10:28)
Challenges and considerations regarding aesthetics after explant surgery

Links and Resources

Let’s Connect...
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/breast-implant-illness/id1678143554
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1SPDripbluZKYsC0rwrBdb?si=23ea2cd9f6734667
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drrobertwhitfield?_t=8oQyjO25X5i&_r=1
IG: https://www.instagram.com/breastimplantillnessexpert/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/DrRobertWhitfield
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robert-whitfield-md-50775b10/
X: https://x.com/rob_whitfieldmd
Read this article - https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction/types/implant-reconstruction/illness/breast-implant-illness
Shop: https://drrobssolutions.com
SHARP: https://www.harp.health
NVISN Labs - https://nvisnlabs.com/

Get access to Dr. Rob's Favorite Products below:
Danger Coffee - Use our link for mold free coffee - https://dangercoffee.com/pages/mold-free-coffee?ref=ztvhyjg
JASPR Air Purifier - Use code DRROB for the Jaspr Air Purifier - https://jaspr.co/
Echo Water - Get high quality water with our code DRROB10 - https://echowater.com/
BallancerPro - Use code DRROBVIP for the world's leader in lymphatic drainage technology - https://ballancerpro.com
Ultrahuman - Use code WHITFIELD10 for the most accurate wearable - https://www.ultrahuman.com/ring/buy/us/?affiliateCode=drwhitfield

Episode 45: ENCORE: What to Expect from A Breast Implant Illness (BII) Consultation

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0500

A breast implant illness consultation (or discovery session, as we like to call it) with Dr. Rob is an in-depth exploration of symptoms and potential causes of BII. The purpose of the discovery session is for women affected by this chronic illness to get much-needed answers.

Having consulted with over 800 patients, Dr. Robert Whitfield is well-versed in the patterns and symptoms affecting women experiencing chronic illness. Thorough and cohesive, the discovery session addresses a range of conditions including brain fog, GI issues, diet, and autoimmune disease, eliminating the need for multiple specialists.

Dr. Rob devotes as much time as needed to understand each individual’s unique situation, ensuring the path forward is effective and delivers much-needed healing and a speedy recovery for patients.

For more healing resources create by Dr. Rob, visit our store - Dr. Rob's Solutions at https://drrobssolutions.myshopify.com

Links and Resources

Dr. Robert Whitfield’s Website

Follow Dr. Rob on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/drrobertwhitfield/

For more information on Virtual and In Person Consultations, we always answer our messenger personally:
https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/contact/

Episode 44: ENCORE: Are Your Breast Implants Making You Sick?

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Women who believe their implants are making them sick report a wide range of symptoms including extreme fatigue, muscle and joint pain, headache, brain fog, hair loss, rashes, dry mouth and eyes, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

These conditions appear within a few months to several years following surgery, and seem to more often follow a secondary surgery like revision or exchange. But the exact cause is difficult to pin down because other conditions like Lyme disease and toxic mold exposure can cause similar symptoms.

Using PCR testing (instead of traditional CLIA-based lab testing), Dr. Rob discovered that over 60% of the breast implants he removed all had one thing in common.

Dr. Robert Whitfield describes his methodology for identifying this complicated, misunderstood condition and shares his treatment strategies utilizing nutrition and genetic testing to put his patients on the path to healing.

For more healing resources create by Dr. Rob, visit our store - Dr. Rob's Solutions at https://drrobssolutions.myshopify.com

Links and Resources

Dr. Robert Whitfield’s Website

Follow Dr. Rob on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/drrobertwhitfield/

For more information on Virtual and In Person Consultations, we always answer our messenger personally:
https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/contact/

Episode 40: What Are the Treatment Options for Breast Implant Illness?

Robert Whitfield MD — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Breast implant illness continues to be a condition struggling for recognition within the medical community. While this condition entails various symptoms that can be as diverse as chronic fatigue, joint pain, cognitive issues, and even autoimmune reactions, making it a complex and often perplexing condition to diagnose and treat, the approach to treating breast implant illness has evolved significantly over the years.

In this episode, we delve into the treatment options for breast implant illness, exploring the journey from surgical removal to a more personalized and holistic approach aimed at addressing the root causes of this condition and restoring patients' health and well-being.

Genetic factors contributing to chronic inflammation in breast implant illness

In my experience, I began working with patients who had breast implant illness sometime around 2016. Surgery was then the primary treatment option for those with breast implant infections, which eventually evolved into what we now refer to as breast implant illness (BII). However, by 2023, our approach has transformed significantly as we have developed a holistic accelerated recovery program (HARP) that precedes surgery, and it is focused on identifying underlying factors outside of the implants that contribute to chronic inflammation.

I firmly believe that chronic inflammation is at the core of breast implant illness, as I have discussed in various interviews and on my show. That is why in our holistic accelerated recovery program, we consider each individual's genetics as certain genetic profiles can make them more prone to inflammation-related issues. Factors such as poor vitamin D metabolism, compromised methylation pathways, limited glutathione binding in the liver, and weak antioxidant pathways can all increase susceptibility to chronic inflammation.

Understanding this genetic basis helps us make sense of the diverse symptoms that patients present with, which often perplex healthcare providers unfamiliar with breast implant illness. It's not about categorizing it as a specific disease entity, but rather comprehending the genetic factors that lead to chronic inflammation and tailoring treatments accordingly. This personalized approach allows us to address the root causes and provide more effective care to individuals struggling with breast implant illness.

Reducing inflammation through diet and supplements

As an innovator in the cosmetic surgery field, my goal is to create products that offer the best possible outcomes and promote rapid health restoration for my patients. One vital aspect of this is actively addressing inflammation in our bodies and we can achieve this through a combination of dietary adjustments and supplementation.

I've developed a specialized inflammation support bundle that has been tremendously effective for my patients. To tackle the challenge of "pill fatigue" among my patients who find it impractical to take numerous daily pills for inflammation, I've incorporated liposomal versions of essential vitamins and minerals in the bundle. These liposomal supplements are designed for direct absorption in the mouth, eliminating the necessity for them to pass through the digestive system.

Addressing root causes through inflammation reduction for illness recovery

To identify the underlying factors contributing to a patient's condition, we examine various aspects of their life. This includes assessing their environmental exposures, dietary choices, air and water quality, and stress levels in both their work and home life. We also investigate their hormone metabolism and assess whether estrogen is causing toxicity.

Before surgery, we conduct thorough preoperative assessments in my clinic, employing functional and genetic testing. We address these factors by utilizing supplements designed to reduce inflammation, such as my Inflammatory Support Bundle. The ultimate goal is to reduce inflammation because it is at the core of most organ diseases. Whether it's kidney failure, liver disease, heart disease, or lung disease, chronic inflammation is a common denominator.

I often emphasize that you can't escape the consequences of a poor diet, and you can't choose your genetics. It's essential to understand your genetic predispositions and take proactive steps to control and minimize inflammatory triggers in your environment, your diet, and your overall lifestyle. By effectively reducing inflammation through various measures, you can create a more favorable environment for addressing symptomatic breast implant illness.

Links and Resources

Dr. Robert Whitfield’s Website

Follow Dr. Rob on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/drrobertwhitfield/

For more information on Virtual and In Person Consultations, we always answer our messenger personally:
https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/contact/