by Magnusson, Mark R.;
Cooter, Rod D.; Rakhorst, Hinne; McGuire, Patricia A.; Adams, William P. Jr;
Deva, Anand K.
Summary: The
link between breast implants and systemic disease has been reported since the
1960s. Although many studies have looked at either supporting or refuting its
existence, the issue still persists and has now been labeled “breast implant
illness.” The rise of patient advocacy and communication through social media
has led to an increasing number of presentations to plastic surgeons. This
article summarizes the history of breast implants and systemic disease,
critically analyzes the literature (and any associated deficiencies), and
suggests a way forward through systematic scientific study.