In February of this year, a seemingly innocuous request turned into the catalyst for a life-changing discovery. A burning sensation in my neck led me down a path I could have never anticipated, one that would eventually reveal a diagnosis of Breast Implant Illness (BII). What started as a simple inquiry about the cause of discomfort evolved into a journey of self-awareness, medical challenges, and ultimately, healing. This is the story of how that one question became the spark that ignited my road to recovery.
The Initial Concern, A Burning Sensation in the Neck
It was a cold winter day in February when I first noticed it—a strange, persistent burning sensation in my neck. At first, I brushed it off as stress, thinking it might be related to the usual pressures of daily life or perhaps just a muscular strain from an awkward sleeping position. But as the days turned into weeks, the sensation didn't fade. Instead, it seemed to grow more intense, more invasive, and increasingly worrisome.
As someone who has always been in tune with my body, I knew something wasn’t right. This wasn't the typical muscle tension or a fleeting discomfort that would pass with a bit of rest. The burning was deep, almost as if it was coming from within the very arteries that supply blood to my head and neck. Concerned, I began researching possible causes, from nerve-related issues to cardiovascular concerns. The more I read, the more anxious I became. What could be causing this strange sensation?
Seeking Answers, The Medical Investigation Begins
The burning sensation prompted me to seek medical advice. My first stop was my primary care physician, who conducted a thorough examination and ordered a series of tests, including blood work and an MRI. While the tests ruled out some of the more serious concerns, such as carotid artery disease or cervical spine issues, they didn’t provide a definitive answer. The burning sensation remained a mystery, and I was left in limbo, searching for answers.
Despite the thorough examination and various tests, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more to my symptoms. I had read about other women experiencing similar unexplained symptoms, and a recurring theme began to emerge: breast implants. Could it be possible that the implants I had received years ago were now the root of my problems?
Taking Matters into My Own Hand, Seeking Out a Plastic Surgeon
My growing concern led me to explore the possibility that my implants were the culprit. I decided to take matters into my own hands and seek out a plastic surgeon who had experience with breast implant-related issues. This decision wasn’t easy, as I was stepping into a realm of uncertainty. The medical community was divided on the topic of Breast Implant Illness (BII), and many doctors were skeptical of its existence.
After doing my research, I found a surgeon who had treated women with similar symptoms. During our consultation, I shared my concerns and described the burning sensation that had been plaguing me for weeks. The surgeon listened intently, acknowledging that while BII is not officially recognized as a medical condition, there were many women who reported significant improvements in their symptoms after undergoing explantation—the removal of the breast implants.
The surgeon explained that the decision to explant was deeply personal and not without risks. However, for many women, it had provided relief from a range of systemic symptoms that had otherwise gone unexplained. Armed with this information, I had to decide whether to proceed with the surgery.
The Decision to Explant, A Leap of Faith
Making the decision to explant was one of the most challenging choices I’ve ever faced. There were so many unknowns—Would the surgery alleviate my symptoms? Would it lead to new complications? How would I feel about my body afterward? These questions swirled in my mind as I weighed the pros and cons.
Ultimately, I decided to proceed with the surgery. The prospect of continuing to live with unexplained symptoms, and the fear that they might worsen, outweighed my concerns about the surgery itself. I chose to trust my body and the intuition that had guided me this far.
The day of the surgery was filled with a mix of emotions—fear, hope, and a strange sense of relief that I was taking control of my health in a new way. The procedure went smoothly, and the surgeon was optimistic that I would see improvements in my symptoms. But the real test would come in the weeks and months following the surgery.
The Road to Recovery, A Journey of Patience and Self-Care
Recovery from explant surgery was a slow and sometimes frustrating process. The burning sensation in my neck didn’t disappear overnight, and in the days following the surgery, I experienced a range of physical and emotional ups and downs. There were moments of doubt when I wondered if I had made the right decision, especially when progress seemed slow.
However, as the weeks passed, I began to notice subtle changes. The burning sensation, while still present, started to diminish. I felt less fatigued, and my energy levels began to return. I also noticed improvements in other areas—my joints ached less, and the brain fog that had plagued me for so long started to lift. It was as if a veil had been lifted from my body, allowing me to see and feel more clearly.
One of the most significant aspects of my recovery has been the focus on self-care. I’ve embraced practices that support healing, both physically and emotionally. Yoga, meditation, and gentle exercise have become daily rituals, helping me to reconnect with my body in a positive way. I’ve also prioritized clean, nutrient-dense eating, recognizing the importance of nourishing my body from the inside out.
Support from others has been invaluable during this time. Connecting with other women who have experienced BII has provided me with a sense of community and validation. Their stories, similar to mine, remind me that I am not alone on this journey. Together, we share tips, encouragement, and the understanding that comes from having walked a similar path.
Reflections and Looking Forward, Embracing the Journey
As I continue on the road to recovery, I’ve come to realize that healing is not a linear process. There are days when I feel incredible progress and others when I am reminded that my body is still healing. But through it all, I’ve learned to listen to my body, to honor its signals, and to trust that it knows the way forward.
The burning sensation that once caused me so much distress has become a reminder of the importance of paying attention to the subtle cues our bodies give us. It led me to discover a condition I hadn’t even known existed and ultimately to take action that has set me on a path toward better health.
Breast Implant Illness may not be fully understood by the medical community, but for those of us who have experienced it, the reality is undeniable. My journey is far from over, but I am grateful for the progress I’ve made and for the knowledge that I now have about my own body.
If there’s one takeaway from this experience, it’s the importance of being your own health advocate. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek second opinions, or explore alternative explanations for your symptoms. Your body is wise, and it’s constantly communicating with you—sometimes in whispers, sometimes in shouts. Listen closely, and you might just find the answers you’ve been seeking.
As I look to the future, I’m hopeful that my story can help others who are struggling with unexplained symptoms. Recovery is possible, but it requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to trust the journey. The road may be long, but with each step, I’m moving closer to a healthier, more vibrant version of myself. And for that, I am profoundly grateful.
Note: This article should not be taken lightly. I could not walk many days - COULD NOT WALK. If you or someone you know could suspect Breast Implant Illness, or are a complicated case searching for answers - ask yourself, "Could I have BII?".