Breast Implant Illness By cover art

Breast Implant Illness

By: Dr. Robert Whitfield
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • Welcome to the Breast Implant Illness Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of breast implant illness and explant surgery with expert plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Whitfield. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with almost 1000 breast explant surgeries under his belt, Dr. Whitfield brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. Through candid interviews with patients, fellow surgeons, and other experts in the field, Dr. Whitfield explores the many facets of breast implant illness, including its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. He also delves into the controversial topic of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and what patients need to know about the risks associated with breast implants. If you're considering breast implant surgery, struggling with breast implant illness symptoms, or simply looking for more information about this important topic, then the Breast Implant Illness Podcast is the perfect resource for you. Join us for thought-provoking discussions and expert insights that will help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
    © 2024 Breast Implant Illness
    Show more Show less
Episodes
  • Episode 65: ENCORE: Can Breast Implants Cause Neurological Symptoms?

    Episode 65: ENCORE: Can Breast Implants Cause Neurological Symptoms?
    May 9 2024
    While breast implants or breast augmentation are generally considered safe and effective, there has been growing concern about their potential link to neurological symptoms. There have been several patients over the past years complaining about symptoms of neural inflammation such as brain fog, headache, sound sensitivity and light sensitivity. And that’s why we’re here to shed light on this topic. In this episode, we’ll answer the concern of many as regards breast implants and whether or not they can cause neurological symptoms. Can breast implants cause neurological symptoms? Whenever a patient tells me they’re experiencing headaches, light and sound sensitivity and brain fog, my initial thought is that it is related to neural inflammation and environmental toxicity. It must be determined whether or not the patient has been exposed to environmental toxins because these toxins would complicate neural inflammation. Many cases in Texas, Florida, California, and Georgie are rooted from this circumstance. We really have to take into consideration the environment the patient is in. Being exposed to moist environments like being near rivers, oceans, lakes, or the like where there may be high mold counts which you’re unaware of triggers inflammation and other issues or complications in having breast implants. If someone had a preexisting neurologic condition, this could certainly be worsened in conjunction with a mold exposure. And as we've discussed in our previous episodes, breast implants can be responsible for inflammation. Thus, these other disease processes can result in further inflammation and give you neurologic symptoms. Some research studies provide that immune reactions triggered by the breast implants, such as inflammation or an autoimmune response, may contribute to the development of neurological symptoms. Other factors like genetic predisposition, pre-existing medical conditions, and individual patient characteristics may also affect the development of neurological symptoms in some patients with breast implants. Identifying the Signs of Neural Inflammation We conduct a lot of tests to really identify the issues and further understand what’s happening. We have toxicity testing and inflammation testing which greatly helps in resolving these issues. As much as possible, we try to start everybody on Dr. Rob’s Solutions Immune Support bundle for the stimulation of the system to excrete the toxins in the urine. Consequently, we'll have a better idea on how to characterize and develop treatment plans. We closely and regularly monitor the patient to see how they’re managing their inflammation. We check for signs and symptoms of specific inflammatory processes to determine what we can do to provide them help. More than the help we provide, we make sure our patients are cared for as we help them throughout their healing journey. So what we always do is be as comprehensive as possible. Links and Resources Dr. Robert Whitfield’s Website (https://drrobssolutions.com/) 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/ About Dr. Rob Dr. Robert Whitfield (https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/dr-whitfield-2/) In 2012, Dr. Whitfield came to Austin and became renowned for his breast surgery expertise. He set up his own practice in 2017. Here, he offers the men and women of Austin a full range of cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, addressing the full array of breast, body and face. Born and bred in Las Vegas, Austin plastic surgeon Dr. Whitfield received his medical degree from the University of Las Vegas School of Medicine. This was followed by six years of surgical training, as well as his plastic surgery residency at Indiana University Medical Center. He returned to Nevada for a one year microsurgery fellowship before settling down to practice and teach at the Medical College of Wisconsin for seven years. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Whitfield’s approach to medicine has really been shaped by both his upbringing and his education. As a child of the “wild west,” he was born with an adventurous spirit. One of the reasons that he was drawn to plastic surgery is the constant innovation. In the field of plastic surgery, with innovative techniques and technologies developed each year, there are simply issues for which a solution has yet to be invented. Dr. Whitfield tempers his intrepid attitude with Midwestern pragmatism. It makes for a pretty winning combination.
    Show more Show less
    8 mins
  • Episode 64: Navigating Brain Surgery: Insights from Taylor Dukes’ Recovery

    Episode 64: Navigating Brain Surgery: Insights from Taylor Dukes’ Recovery
    May 2 2024
    By embracing a holistic approach that considers not only the surgical procedure itself but also the patient's overall health and well-being, practitioners can optimize the recovery process and enhance long-term outcomes. Functional medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of various bodily systems, recognizing the importance of factors such as nutrition, inflammation management, and stress reduction in promoting healing. When applied with conventional techniques, these can play a crucial role in supporting patients more comprehensively and effectively. In this compelling discussion with Taylor Dukes, we explore the various aspects of recovery in her brain tumor healing journey, shedding light on the importance of holistic approaches to healing, from addressing inflammation to optimizing restorative sleep. Join us as we unravel personal narratives, share valuable insights, and highlight the critical role of support systems in the recovery process. Functional medicine, integrating conventional and holistic approaches to healthcare Taylor recounts a period of significant stress and trauma in their life, exacerbated by working night shifts in an ICU in Austin, Texas. Despite being previously healthy, she found herself experiencing various health issues, including hair loss, joint pain, stomach problems, and skin inflammation. Despite consulting various specialists and undergoing invasive procedures, she struggled to find answers to her declining health. Her desperation to recover led her to seek alternative approaches, eventually leading her to functional medicine practitioner Ann Shippy, who significantly improved her health through testing and dietary changes. This experience propelled her into the field of functional medicine, where she subsequently worked as a nurse for Amy Myers and eventually opened her own practice. Brain tumor diagnosis, treatment, and healing journey Amidst her newfound health and career success, she received a Prenuvo scan – a full-body preventative scan. This led to the shocking discovery of a brain tumor, despite her lack of symptoms. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasizes the integrative approach of functional medicine, combining conventional and holistic practices to address illness at its roots. Her experiences highlight the significance of thorough patient history and consideration of factors like lifestyle, genetics, and environment for achieving optimal health outcomes. Following the unexpected discovery of a brain tumor, Taylor went through the stages of acceptance and preparation. She also explored the treatment options available. With an integrative approach to healthcare in mind, she sought complementary methods to address the tumor, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention. Utilizing a combination of diet modifications, alternative therapies, and stress reduction techniques, she diligently prepared her body for surgery over a span of five months. This proactive approach not only allowed her to explore various treatment modalities but also facilitated the remarkable feat of shrinking the tumor by half before undergoing surgery. Collaborating with healthcare professionals across different disciplines, including a neurosurgeon and integrative treatment centers, she took charge of their healing journey with determination and resilience. Integrative oncology and preparing the body for brain surgery Addressing inflammation is a cornerstone of my approach to health and wellness, and it's something I consistently highlight. Whether you're dealing with chronic health issues or simply striving for optimal well-being, managing inflammation is key. One of the most powerful tools in combating inflammation is through dietary intervention, and this is where the ketogenic diet comes into play. A strict ketogenic diet involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and focusing on clean, whole foods that are rich in healthy fats and nutrient-dense, low-glycemic vegetables. A keto diet can help to rebalance inflammatory responses and processes in the body. However, it's important to note that not all ketogenic diets are created equal. While some may opt for a more lenient approach, indulging in processed and inflammatory foods, we encourage individuals to have a strict, clean ketogenic diet instead. Brain surgery recovery, sleep issues, and the importance of sleep for healing The aftermath of surgery is often similar to a delicate dance, with patients backpedaling and preparing for the next set of events. In Taylor’s case, her meticulous preparation undoubtedly paved the way for a more efficient recovery. However, the confusion among providers regarding surgical outcomes isn't solely due to technical advancements; rather, it's deeply intertwined with the patient's overall health status and risk factors. From pre-surgery preparations to post-operative care, every aspect plays a pivotal role in achieving optimal outcomes. In a time where trust in medical...
    Show more Show less
    41 mins
  • Episode 63: Rethinking Indoor Air Quality: Beyond Traditional HVAC Systems

    Episode 63: Rethinking Indoor Air Quality: Beyond Traditional HVAC Systems
    Apr 25 2024
    While the traditional Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems have long been relied upon to regulate indoor temperature and humidity, they cannot often effectively address the diverse range of indoor air pollutants that pose health risks to occupants. There is a need for us to rethink our approach to indoor air quality, moving beyond the limitations of traditional HVAC systems and embracing innovative solutions like those offered by JASPR. For this episode, it’s a pleasure to be joined by Mike Feldstein, the founder of JASPR and an air quality expert. His mission is to enhance air quality and improve human health through cutting-edge air quality science and technology. Air quality and its impact on human health, with emphasis on genetics and detoxification Air quality is significant in our daily lives as it directly impacts our health and well-being. Mike emphasizes the importance of understanding how basic heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems fall short in protecting against pollutants like mold, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters. He explains that HVAC systems have remained relatively unchanged for decades, primarily designed for cost-effective heating and cooling rather than air purification. While some accessories can help, such as adding humidity in dry climates, attempting to enhance air quality by simply upgrading filters can actually hinder system performance and efficiency. He also emphasizes the need for a separate, dedicated air filtration system with its own fan to ensure continuous, effective air cleaning. With the need to move beyond the limitations of traditional HVAC systems, the challenge lies in practical implementation. It then becomes more important that we continue to raise awareness and educate more people. Explaining the importance of air quality to clients becomes critical, especially for those dealing with chronic inflammatory symptoms. By demonstrating the impact of air quality improvements wherever they go, individuals can grasp the connection between their surroundings and their health. Tools like CO2 detectors and particle counters provide tangible evidence of indoor air pollution, prompting individuals to take action to improve their environments. By making air quality tangible and relatable, we can empower people to prioritize clean air as they do clean water and food. Air quality, invisible particles, and the importance of filters Understanding and addressing microscopic pollutants in indoor air, particularly mold spores, is crucial. However, it is challenging to comprehend the significance of particles that are invisible to the naked eye, such as those measuring between three to 40 microns, which can have detrimental effects on health. In my conversation with Mike, we compare invisible indoor pollutants, like mold spores to germs on surfaces. Just as we can't see bacteria but still clean surfaces to stay healthy, we need to address unseen pollutants in the air. This highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to keep indoor air clean and reduce health risks. We also discuss the role of air quality monitoring tools in visualizing indoor pollution levels. By using devices like air quality monitors, individuals can gain tangible evidence of indoor air contaminants, prompting them to take action to improve air quality. This hands-on approach to understanding indoor air pollution empowers people to make informed decisions about their indoor environments and take steps to create healthier living spaces. Toxicity in schools and homes, with a focus on air filtration and ventilation Toxicity in schools arises from various sources, including poor ventilation, inadequate filtration systems, and the presence of airborne pollutants such as allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter. These pollutants can exacerbate respiratory conditions, trigger allergies, and negatively impact cognitive function and academic performance. Air purification is important, particularly for individuals with genetic challenges in detoxifying toxins. There is a great need for awareness and action regarding indoor air quality, especially for families with children experiencing health issues like allergies and frequent illnesses. Through JASPR air purifiers, families can address these concerns effectively. The purifiers are designed to remove a wide range of pollutants, including airborne toxins, allergens, and contaminants, providing cleaner and healthier air for indoor environments. By investing in JASPR air purifiers, families can create a safer and more comfortable living environment, particularly beneficial for children with sensitivities or respiratory issues. Proper diaper disposal and air quality in nurseries The issue of poor quality also extends to places like airports. And so, we must consider all aspects of health, including the quality of fluids and food intake. Mike emphasizes the importance of eliminating ...
    Show more Show less
    49 mins

What listeners say about Breast Implant Illness

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.com reviews

Amazon reviews
No Reviews are Available