Recently, I penned an article detailing my experience with breast implant illness (BII) and expressed my sympathy for women with breast implants. Too often, we are led into the decision to get them, despite the fact that numerous women have undergone explant surgery due to severe health issues linked to their implants. The reactions I received from some women with implants were astonishingly dismissive, bordering on gaslighting.
I understand that confronting the reality of breast implant illness is challenging. Before I chose to get breast implants following my breast cancer diagnosis, a friend urged me to do thorough research. Regrettably, I didn’t heed her advice, resulting in three and a half years of suffering from debilitating symptoms of BII. I do not share my narrative to shame anyone but rather to inform. However, I continue to encounter significant gaslighting from both women and the medical community.
It’s crucial to recognize that those of us sharing our distressing experiences with BII are motivated by a single aim: to prevent others from enduring the same painful and costly journey. Discussing the risks associated with breast implants is hardly glamorous; many prefer to admire flawless breasts on social media rather than engage in conversations about breast cancer, complications from implants, or the process of explantation.
The subjects I tackle often carry a stigma. I can almost hear the disdainful “Ew” from a character like Alexis Rose every time I publish an account of living as a chronically ill person due to silicone implants. Medical discussions can be uncomfortable, but what’s worse is the daily reality of living with toxic implants near vital organs, knowing they are making you very sick.
It’s disheartening that women are often quick to dismiss the experiences of others. Each story is unique, and our truths deserve to be acknowledged. We share our experiences because we believe in the importance of women’s health and the right to a fulfilling, healthy life. When personal experiences reveal that breast implants are detrimental rather than beneficial, it compels us to share our truths.
Facing skepticism from others is disheartening, especially after grappling with the medical community’s doubts. Many who consider or undergo explant surgery have endured years of second-guessing and victim-blaming—an especially painful experience.
When we approach doctors with symptoms like sudden food intolerances, rapid heartbeats, insomnia, rashes, and a multitude of other BII-related symptoms, we often find ourselves subjected to extensive testing—CT scans, blood work, ultrasounds, and more. These processes are both taxing and expensive, frequently resulting in no clear diagnosis. Why? Because breast implant illness isn’t officially recognized as a medical condition, and there’s no test for it. BII manifests as a variety of symptoms that can mimic other illnesses, making it challenging to diagnose.
Without a formal diagnosis, many of us must advocate for ourselves in medical settings. A significant number of doctors are unfamiliar with BII, and even when we attempt to educate them, some dismiss our concerns as psychological. While breast implants are FDA approved, they also come with a black box warning—a critical detail.
This contradiction is telling. Some women who have had their implants removed request to keep them post-surgery, as they paid for them. However, doctors often refuse, stating that the implants are considered “medical hazardous waste.” This raises a troubling question: If implants are too hazardous to remain with the patient, how can they be deemed safe for implantation in the first place?
When I share my story, some women who have implants claim they are “perfectly fine” and have no issues. While I can’t dispute their experiences, it’s worth noting that some have later confided about strange symptoms their doctors have failed to diagnose. If I suggest that their implants might be the culprits, they often shut down.
I understand the emotional complexity surrounding breast implants. Many of us are reluctant to part with them, despite their potential health risks. I, too, appreciated how my implants enhanced my appearance. For the first time, my breasts were symmetrical, allowing me to wear whatever I wanted with confidence.
However, my health suffered immensely. The symptoms became overwhelming, and I felt like a shadow of my former self. Simple tasks became monumental challenges, and my energy levels fluctuated drastically.
It’s infuriating when other women dismiss my experiences. I share my story to assist those contemplating implants, those who are struggling with them, or those who have chosen to explant and need validation. I don’t seek accolades for my decision; I speak out because I genuinely care about women’s health.
I believe that in the future, breast implant illness will gain recognition as a legitimate medical diagnosis, leading to greater acceptance for women like me who have suffered due to implants. While I await that change, I will continue to voice my experiences, regardless of how uncomfortable they may make others feel.
For more insights, you can also check out this related blog post about the implications of breast implants here. Additionally, if you’re looking for comprehensive information on at-home insemination, this site is highly recommended. For further reading on pregnancy and fertility, you can explore Medical News Today.
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Summary:
Breast implant illness (BII) is a serious concern that many women experience after receiving implants. Despite the challenges of being believed and understood, it is vital to share these stories to help others. The medical community often fails to recognize BII, leading to a need for self-advocacy among those affected. Sharing personal experiences can empower women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
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