Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Anesthesia: general anesthetic
Stay: outpatient or inpatient
Aftercare: follow-up examinations and support during healing
Able to work: after about 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the healing process
Breast implant illness (BII) encompasses a variety of health problems that women experience after breast augmentation with implants. Symptoms can be neurological or autoimmune in nature. Many sufferers report symptoms such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems, hair loss, and skin rashes. In some cases, these symptoms can occur several years after implantation. If you suspect that your breast implants are affecting your health, we offer you expert advice. Together, we will develop the best solutions for you.
Understanding and alleviating: Support for Breast Implant Illness
During a thorough consultation, we will take your symptoms seriously and examine whether they could be related to your breast implants. We will discuss possible next steps and options for possible implant removal or other therapeutic solutions. To schedule an appointment, please contact us. online or under T +41 44 397 38 60
with us.
If removal of the implants is considered, a preoperative examination will be carried out to optimize your health and ensure the best possible care.
Implant removal is performed under a brief general anesthetic. The goal is to completely remove the implant and capsule (en bloc) and examine it histologically. In most cases, the breast tissue must be tightened and reshaped, as the skin sags after implant removal. Lipofilling (injection of the patient's own fatty tissue) may also be considered to increase volume. If necessary, small drains are inserted to drain wound fluid. Finally, the breasts are bandaged to reduce swelling.
The breast may be tender and painful for a few days. The stitches will dissolve on their own. Initially, the scars will be firm and slightly red. However, light activities can be resumed after just a few days. Swelling can last up to 12 weeks, and during this time, the breasts are often tender to the touch. After about three months, the breasts will have reached their final shape and size. The scars will fade approximately six months after the procedure. Regular follow-up examinations are recommended to ensure that your symptoms improve and you make a full recovery.
Acute complications occur extremely rarely. However, as with any surgical procedure, certain risks exist, such as bleeding, infection, or impaired wound healing. In some cases, nipple sensitivity or numbness may occur. These changes usually subside over time, but in individual cases, they can persist. Breastfeeding may also be impaired. We will explain all risks and the expected recovery time in detail during your consultation. You are in safe hands with us.
The costs depend on the complexity of the procedure. In some cases, health insurance may cover the costs, especially if there is a health impairment. We would be happy to advise you on the exact costs and possible coverage options.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What are the symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
The symptoms of BII vary from person to person. Most common complaints include:
- Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
- Joint and muscle pain
- Rashes and itching
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Unclear chronic pain
- memory problems and concentration disorders
- Anxiety and depression
- sleep disorders
It's important to emphasize that these symptoms can have other causes. However, if several of these signs occur together, it may be advisable to seek medical attention. You can reach us at T +41 44 397 38 60.
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What our customers say about us
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I can sum up my stay at Zollikerberg Hospital with the following words: the highest level of expertise, humanity, and compassionate care. I had a successful operation and received competent advice, care, and excellent support from the first minute until my discharge. A big thank you also goes to the hotel and kitchen team for the delicious and varied meals; I thoroughly enjoyed everything. Thank you so much!
I had a very good experience. The doctors and nurses were very nice. The surgery went smoothly and was almost painless. I'm very satisfied with the final result. I would have the procedure at Zollikerberg Hospital anytime.
Honest and empathetic advice from Professor Fansa, and always a friendly welcome from Mr. Kummer in the reception area: I was extremely satisfied with my treatment, from start to finish. Zollikerberg Hospital is close to my heart anyway; my children were born here. 😉I was always treated very well and warmly here. 100% recommended!
The initial consultation calmed my fears and concerns. Excellent advice and, above all, excellent explanations! A fantastic team. After the surgery, everything that had been done was explained to me again. Follow-up examinations and discussions went well. I'm very pleased to have had my procedure with Dr. Fansa; it has given me renewed courage and vitality. I thank the entire team.
With Dr. Linder, you always feel very well looked after and taken seriously. She's extremely competent, both professionally and personally. I would recommend her at any time!
Everyone was very nice and accommodating. Dr. Fansa also explained everything very well and in simple terms. And everything worked out exactly as expected. I highly recommend it, and I would go back anytime.
Excellent from start to finish. The hospital is very well organized, there are hardly any waiting times, and Prof. Fansa and Dr. Linder are excellent surgeons. I am very satisfied with the results!
Professionalism combined with humanity. You feel well advised and treated.
