The Dr. Robert Whitfield Show

There are instances wherein breast implants may cause some complications. Some women may experience health issues related to breast implants, such as pain, discomfort, or inflammation. Thus, for purposes of easing the pain and diminishing the long-term effects caused by breast implants, many women resort to explants or removal of breast implants.

In today’s episode, we’ll be answering one of the frequently asked questions during and outside consultations as regards breast implants – can they be removed safely?

I often get asked by my patients if it’s safe to remove breast implants because apparently, they’ve been told by other surgeons that it’s unsafe to remove the capsule. Removing such, according to them, can cause further complications including injury to surrounding structures, especially the lung.

Personally, I stopped using drains a few years ago and just focused on explants with no drains and no other procedure to perform. I’ve only encountered one infection and that’s still a safe percentage. So far, I’ve done over a thousand successful explants.

Supposing that in five cases in those thousands of explants, an entrance into the chest cavity occurred – that's different from injuring the lung. You're merely creating an opening in the chest cavity underneath where the intercostal muscle is.

We’re making this opening because you can't really go through the actual rib. Instead, you have to go between the ribs. You then close it by evacuating the air and creating the seal or putting in a small catheter to get the air out through a one-way valve called the Heimlich valve.

There are risks and benefits for breast implant removal and so, if you're thinking about having this kind of surgery, it's crucial to recognize these factors. Other surgeons would say that it’s risky to conduct breast implant removal as it would cause infection, bleeding, and other complications around the breast area.

However, I’ve done over 1,500 procedures without any problem and that’s saying something. That’s an attestation that it is a safe procedure. Many women experience health issues related to breast implants, such as pain, discomfort, or inflammation which is why we offer breast implant removal or explantation to relieve them from these symptoms.

In relation to this, we'll be launching a training program for surgeons doing breast implant removal procedures. We’re raising awareness that this is not something that you should be worried about. This is why it’s important to find a reputable surgeon with appropriate knowledge and one who uses safe techniques and instruments.

It was easy for me to transition to doing explants since I’m a reconstructive plastic surgeon for the majority of my career. I predominantly did cancer reconstruction where I was exposed to all these tissues and areas. And so, this isn’t something that’s unusual for me.

It all boils down to identifying as many root causes of inflammation as possible and diminishing those around the time of surgery, as well as balancing out hormones and improving your diet.

I never take these procedures lightly because I want to make sure that everything's taken care of properly so that at the end of the timeframe of recovery, we won’t have any issues.

There are instances wherein women are unhappy with the outcome of their breast implants. By augmenting the breast, you're masking asymmetry. So when we do an explant, we're identifying these areas that were treated initially for that purpose.

I personally prefer and lean on fat transfer to help with that problem although, you can always do different skin lifts. If you have enough breast tissue, you can modify that with a vertical lift which gives you the lollipop scar because that allows you to reshape the bottom of the breast.

As we’ve always emphasized, it's important to find a provider who recognizes breast implant illness as a real entity and has a plan to support you both before, during, and after surgery.

If you want to consult with us, you may reach out to us. We conduct a Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program which has been very beneficial and effective for our patients.

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Breast lift procedures are sought after by individuals looking to restore firmness and shape to their breasts. As surgeons work to restore a more youthful and lifted appearance to the breasts, they often face the challenge of repositioning the nipples to achieve optimal symmetry and aesthetics. This involves careful consideration of factors such as nipple placement, skin elasticity, and breast volume, all of which play a significant role in determining the surgical approach.

In this episode, we'll focus on nipple removal during breast uplift procedures. Whether you're considering undergoing a breast uplift yourself or simply curious about the intricacies of cosmetic surgery, this episode promises to offer more valuable insights.

Breast lifts are complex procedures often combined with other surgeries like explants and fat transfers to achieve balance and desired results. During these surgeries, the nipple complex may be temporarily removed and repositioned to achieve better symmetry and aesthetics.

Breast lift procedures require careful consideration of various factors to achieve optimal results, particularly concerning the position and appearance of the nipple complex. Each patient's unique anatomy, including skin elasticity, nipple placement, and breast volume, requires a personalized approach to surgery.

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The significance of maintaining a healthy diet extends beyond mere physical nourishment; it impacts every aspect of one's life, from energy levels to mood and overall quality of life. By reducing the intake of processed foods high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, individuals can lower their risk of developing these health issues and improve their overall longevity.

Join us as Nicole delves into the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and prioritizing nutritious food choices. From the meticulous sourcing of high-quality ingredients to the preparation of dishes free from harmful additives, Nicole demonstrates how The Well embodies a commitment to promoting health from the inside out with a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of food.

Nicole had always been immersed in the service industry, growing up in her family's long-standing restaurant business, yet initially uncertain about making it her lifelong career. However, she found herself deeply drawn to the daily interactions, the sense of community, and the joy of being around people. It was this passion for connection that fueled her desire to create something truly unique in the dining landscape.

The inspiration behind their restaurant concept stemmed from a simple yet profound question: Why should people have to choose between eating well and dining out? She thought it didn't make sense that eating out often meant giving up healthy options. So, they decided to create a restaurant where people could enjoy dining out without compromising on nutritious food.

Collaborating with a renowned nutrition consultant named Liv, they embarked on a journey to redefine the standards of restaurant dining. Liv's expertise guided them in curating a menu that not only prioritized nutrient density but also celebrated bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. Together, they meticulously crafted dishes that combined healthfulness with culinary excellence, setting a new benchmark for their brand.

They also teamed up with designers to make sure the restaurant felt inviting and lively, breaking away from the typical look of health-focused places. They wanted it to be a spot where people could come for anything, whether it's grabbing a smoothie after a workout or celebrating a special occasion, and feel comfortable. Through their dedication to quality, community, and holistic well-being, they aimed to redefine the very essence of dining out, one nourishing meal at a time.

Personally, I’ve been avoiding gluten because I’m gluten-sensitive. As for my family, it has already been almost a decade of eating gluten-free. And yet, we still struggle to find real gluten-free food amidst all the processed "gluten-free" products. Thankfully, I discovered The Well during a late meeting at another restaurant nearby. Intrigued by its promise of health-conscious dining, I quickly became a regular, even gifting my patients with cards to enjoy meals there.

The Well’s menu philosophy was simple: stick to the basics and focus on real, whole foods. Free from gluten, dairy, soy, seed oils, GMOs, and refined sugars, their dishes were carefully crafted to prioritize quality and nutrition. Also, they prioritize sourcing their ingredients organically to ensure that their patrons are not exposed to potentially harmful pesticides. And so, they specifically avoid using non-organic versions of the produce items listed on the Dirty Dozen list as compiled by the Environmental Working Group, which identifies produce items with the highest pesticide contamination levels.

One of the standout items for me at The Well is undoubtedly the bone broth, and it's not just because of its exceptional taste. This hearty broth has earned its place as a favorite among patrons, thanks to its unique preparation method and undeniable quality. Made from high-quality bones, carefully selected and simmered overnight, it's a labor of love that infuses every sip with rich flavor and nourishing goodness.

According to Nicole, they use a large emulsifier to blend the ingredients, ensuring that all the essential nutrients, including collagen, are retained. Each order is then ladled out and blended again in a Vitamix blender to achieve a smooth and frothy texture, resulting in a delicious and nourishing beverage. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other dishes, The Well's bone broth is a testament to their commitment to providing not just delicious, but also wholesome options for their guests.

More of Nicole’s personal favorites on the menu are the roasted beet salad, salmon, and chicken bone broth. She also loves and recommends the chilaquiles, which she describes as uniquely flavorful and perfect for breakfast.

At The Well, they're all about redefining healthy eating with flavorful and diverse options, ensuring wholesome food doesn't mean sacrificing taste. Their menu has evolved, embracing local brands like Cha Cha! Foods for tortillas and it's all good for gluten-free bread in sandwiches. One of their favorites is the chicken salad sandwich which is a lunchtime delight.

Recently, they've introduced new dishes like coconut curry squash and organic brown rice pasta, catering to families seeking both nutrition and flavor. Their focus on kid-friendly choices reflects their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for families, recognizing the importance of early exposure to savory foods over sugary items.

Their dedication to providing nutritious options extends to their beverage offerings as well. Despite offering a full bar, they prioritize using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and local honey, ensuring that even indulgences like cocktails are made with quality, homemade ingredients. This holistic approach underscores their mission to offer delicious yet wholesome dining experiences for all their patrons.

The atmosphere at The Well reminds me of dining in Spain, where quality ingredients, diverse menu options, and a relaxed ambiance come together seamlessly. With outdoor seating available at both locations, patrons can enjoy the pleasant Austin weather while savoring their meals. The restaurant has garnered a loyal following, with many patrons becoming regulars.

Reflecting on her European heritage, particularly her family's Greek roots, Nicole sees similarities with the focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and simple, flavorful cooking. The goal at The Well is not to reinvent the wheel but to return to the basics of nourishing, wholesome food that promotes overall well-being. Like in European villages with abundant quality ingredients, The Well focuses on preparing dishes that optimize health without sacrificing taste.

The commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients and preparing food without harmful additives like seed oils and gluten resonates strongly with the community. Nicole and her husband, rooted in the local community with their two young daughters, are dedicated to providing an optimal dining experience that promotes both physical and mental well-being.

For those looking to visit The Well, you may visit them from these locations: 2nd Street, Westlake, and Studio 3. This accessibility ensures patrons can enjoy nutritious, inflammation-friendly meals wherever they are.

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I can’t emphasize enough the fact that breast implant illness remains to be a topic that’s not often talked about by many, especially in the medical community, despite its several effects. Usually, women undergo explant surgery in an effort to heal their breast implants.

Today, we’ll be talking about the link between breast implants and cancer and I hope you learn more about breast implant illness as we continue to delve into the symptoms, latest surgical techniques for exploitation, and the recovery process for breast implant illness in my podcast series.

Following the premise that there aren’t a lot of research studies about breast implant illness, what many people don’t know is that there are different cancers associated with breast implants.

One of the kinds of cancer associated with breast implants is anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) which is a rare type of blood cancer. Textured implants have a very rough surface that was meant to help hold the implant in place, but it is supremely irritating to the tissues. This causes a T cell response which can ultimately lead to this lymphoma.

There are studies regarding this condition as early as 2008. In fact, there's a study in the Netherlands that was conducted wherein patients had textured implants and they observed that there was a development of lymphoma. This was further supported by more diagnoses in the United States where cases of anaplastic large cell lymphoma were recorded yearly.

There's a new entity called breast implant associated squamous cell carcinoma (BIA-SCC) which has been found as a very rare tumor that may appear in the capsule around the breast implants. There is limited data on this but medical organizations and institutions are pushing for increased clinical awareness and more evidence-based studies regarding this.

From our previous episodes, we’ve talked about the correlation of inflammation and breast implant illness. Inflammation fundamentally and directly causes or triggers the development of these other cancers associated with breast implants.

Textured implants are becoming a problem which is why many markets have stopped the production of textured devices. In Europe, the US and even other countries, they have already limited the usage of textured devices. The traditional way of using smooth round implants in performing breast augmentation remains to be the best recommendation.

If you’re overwhelmed or unsure in your journey to healing and wellness, look no further – Dr. Rob’s Solutions is here. We fully understand the unique challenges that come with breast implant illness. We offer a wide range of products and services from the highest grade supplements to comprehensive lab testing to aid you in your journey to recovery.

Our supplements are specially formulated to support detoxification while our medical grade skincare products are designed to nourish and protect the skin. We also offer comprehensive lab testing to help identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

And for those who are ready and planning to undergo an explant surgery, we have the Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program (HARP) if you’re interested. This will help you further understand how your unique body can accelerate and optimize healing.

Don't let the uncertainty and confusion of breast implant illness hold you back any longer. Trust the experts at Dr. Rob’s Solutions to provide you with the resources and support you need to take control of your health and wellness.

First things first, we look for any pre-existing conditions like autoimmune disorders or anything that would affect the immune system and aggravate the current condition of the individual. If someone has a pre-existing cancer condition, we have to closely look at that.

But breast cancers are different from lymphomas and as of date, we haven’t seen nor recorded any case of such. From my experience with lymphoma, it’s safe to conclude that it’s really necessary to provide intense care for the patient.

Many devices have a rupture rate that increases over time but thankfully, the devices produced now have more longevity. We have to safely evaluate and monitor these patients. And as part of my oncology practice and cosmetic practice, I always encourage patients to do follow-up care involving regular medical checkups whether a few weeks or months after as a routine.

If we needed ultrasound or whatever test was necessary, we'd use that to better characterize both the health of the patient and device. From a structural standpoint, we want to know that it's intact.

And so, everything becomes challenging not just for the providers but also for the clients who want to have these procedures done for whatever purpose. Like what I always say, there has to be a clear discussion and review of relevant information such as their health history, their family’s health history, and other potential correlations between the development of these cancers or breast cancer for that matter.

Personally, I make use of functional genetics in crafting individualized plans for our patients and I suggest that we should leverage genetics whenever possible. And I hope that in the future, that is the way we'll be able to address and evaluate potential risks for these cancers developing in patients and put everybody in the best possible position for success.

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We’ve already defined what breast implant illness is in the previous podcast episode. It’s a broad term but to put it simply, it is a component of the overall inflammation in your system.

There’s also a need to look at the other components that contribute to your overall inflammation in order to prevent breast implant illness or at least prevent it from worsening. That’s why we have to identify food sensitivities as well. We have to look at how your body absorbs the food you consume.

An analysis of your stool sample’s DNA may be conducted to identify what stimulates you to become inflamed from your diet. However, it remains to be a tough challenge understanding and diagnosing how much inflammation someone has.

Consequently, it’s difficult to understand and diagnose breast implant illness because of that. With my experience of doing thousands of explants, I already know my way through this.

One of the potential ways to reduce your risk of developing inflammation that contributes to breast implant illness is identifying your surgeon for the best possible operative procedure whether it’s for reconstructive or cosmetic surgery. It greatly helps to have a great and trusted surgeon to discuss your condition with.

It’s important to carefully choose the right implant for your patient. The size of the implant must fit the frame of the patient while still giving an aesthetic outcome.

Make sure to monitor the status of your patient and her implant throughout the patient’s healing journey not just during the first year but also for the subsequent years to ensure that there are no issues. In my clinic, we have been using a high definition ultrasound for monitoring.

For those who noticed any changes in your implants, make sure to check with your provider to confirm if there’s any noticeable change or trauma. After that consultation, make sure to follow up just to make sure.

There are alternative therapies for those who are not comfortable with the risks associated with breast implants. We perform fat transfer for patients seeking natural breast augmentation. It accentuates the natural breasts’ form and unlike in an implant, it’s between the skin and fatty layer and above the breast tissue.

It’s difficult to change more than a cup size with a fat transfer so if you’re the patient, clearly set out your expectations with regard to what you’re seeking to change visually.

It’s important to make sure that the patients understand all the risks and benefits of the procedures. For fat transfer, factors such as the skin stretch, overall breast size, pregnancies and other history of the patient who wants to get a cup size change are taken into consideration.

As for breast implants, the patients are informed about the risks of breast implant associated cancers and other risks associated with the development of breast implants. That’s why having a qualified professional surgeon who is knowledgeable about these things is important.

If they don’t really understand things like how a patient’s genetic predisposition or overall toxicity affects the implants, it’s going to be tough for them to understand your condition and keep track of the status of your implants.

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Breast surgery, particularly explant procedures, often involves more than just the physical removal of implants. It's a transformative journey that can profoundly affect an individual's sense of self, relationships, and overall well-being. Considering the far-reaching effects they may have, taking a holistic approach becomes crucial.

We’re joined by Dr. Amanda Savage-Brown, an advocate for comprehensive and holistic care and the author of "Busting Free”, as we delve deep into the emotional and psychological aspects of breast surgery recovery. Throughout this episode, we’ll explore more about the importance of taking a holistic approach and how individuals can cultivate a positive mindset, build a support network, and engage in self-care rituals that promote healing from within.

Dr. Amanda Savage-Brown is an advocate for a comprehensive and holistic approach to breast surgery recovery that extends beyond physical healing to encompass psychological and emotional well-being. Her approach aligns seamlessly with our primary goal, which is to redefine the traditional notion of post-surgery recovery. This approach acknowledges the complex interplay between our physical selves and emotional experiences, recognizing that surgery alone cannot address deeply ingrained beliefs and feelings about self-image and worth.

It’s also crucial to prioritize psychological and social support as they are integral components of the holistic breast surgery recovery process. By acknowledging and addressing these emotional aspects, patients can fully seize the opportunity for personal growth and transformation that accompanies the surgical process.

In her collaboration with our program, Dr. Brown brings invaluable expertise in psychology and emotional wellness, enriching the recovery journey for patients. By integrating psychological services into the program, patients receive comprehensive support that addresses both the physical and emotional dimensions of their recovery. This collaborative approach underscores the program's commitment to providing holistic care that fosters not only physical healing but also emotional resilience and well-being in the long term.

Neglecting the mental, emotional, and social aspects of breast surgery recovery can hinder comprehensive healing and growth. Dr. Savage-Brown recognizes that breast surgery recovery involves more than just physical healing—it's also about navigating complex emotions like worries about self-image or fear of rejection. She stresses the importance of facing these feelings head-on, providing guidance to help individuals navigate them authentically. By encouraging self-awareness and aligning actions with personal values, she offers a way to grow and find fulfillment beyond just coping with challenges.

Central to Dr. Savage-Brown's framework is the concept of psychological flexibility, a dynamic process rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. This approach enables individuals to respond to challenging thoughts and emotions with adaptability and resilience, rather than succumbing to rigid patterns of avoidance or suppression. By cultivating inner flexibility, individuals can navigate the complexities of the recovery journey with grace and authenticity, ultimately emerging stronger and more empowered.

She empowers individuals to embrace their inner strength and resilience, fostering a sense of agency and purpose in their recovery journey. Her expertise in our program enriches our commitment to holistic care as she provides patients with the right tools and support needed to thrive emotionally and psychologically. Together, we aspire to redefine the paradigm of breast surgery recovery, promoting not only physical healing but also profound emotional and psychological well-being.

Our dedication to our clients and their swift recovery highlights the crucial nature of our involvement, especially in ensuring the efficacy of treatment for explant patients. The holistic approach includes various treatments like testing, detoxification, massage, oxygen therapy, and supplements.

Maintaining a positive mindset is equally important. While it's natural to experience moments of frustration, sadness, or fear, cultivating a hopeful outlook can significantly impact overall well-being. This involves focusing on the present moment, practicing gratitude for small victories, and reframing challenges as opportunities for growth.

Practicing self-care rituals can also contribute to a positive mindset and overall wellness. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, can help alleviate stress and improve mood. Additionally, prioritizing healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can support physical health and mental resilience.

Willingness is a powerful concept, one that's often overlooked in our busy lives. As recommended by Dan Sullivan, the WinStreak app encourages users to reflect on the positive aspects of their day and set intentions for the next. It's a small shift in mindset, but it can make a big difference in how we perceive our experiences.

I’m sure many of us struggle to savor moments of success or express gratitude for the people and things that matter most. We're constantly moving from one task to the next, rarely pausing to acknowledge our wins or show appreciation to ourselves and others. But taking the time to celebrate our achievements and express gratitude can profoundly impact our overall well-being.

By incorporating practices like gratitude journaling and mindfulness into our daily routines, we can cultivate a more positive mindset and sustain our resilience in the face of adversity. And by acknowledging the interconnectedness of our physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, we can work toward optimizing healing and achieving excellence in our care.

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Saline implants stand as a popular choice for individuals seeking breast augmentation or reconstruction. However, despite their widespread adoption, saline implants are not immune to the occasional occurrence of rupture, presenting a significant concern for both patients and practitioners.

In this episode, we talk about managing saline implants and discuss the aspects of breast implant surgery. With a keen focus on both the challenges and the innovative techniques inherent in this specialized field, we uncover the complexities of saline implant management and saline deflation.

Managing saline devices, often exceeding 400 CC's and even reaching up to 500 or 900 CC's in my own experience, presents a significant complexity. This complexity arises primarily from the inherent characteristics of saline implants, which lack the compressibility of their silicone gel counterparts. Unlike silicone gel implants, which can be compressed, saline implants maintain their full form, making them particularly challenging to manipulate, especially when placed beneath the breast fold.

Operating around these firm implants, especially from below, requires skill and precision. Our goal is to remove them without damage, keeping everything intact. However, doing this with saline implants requires careful planning and expertise.

There are different approaches we can take when dealing with larger implants, like overfilled ones. We might opt for a traditional method or even a vertical approach. Throughout my career, situations have arisen where individuals, while visiting town, experienced a rupture in their saline device. Through the years, I've encountered numerous patients facing similar circumstances.

Essentially, within about a week of a rupture, the saline in the implant typically drains out harmlessly, as it's sterile and gets absorbed by the body without any issues. Patients should discuss with their surgeon and arrange for a replacement if desired. This process is somewhat traditional, and it's important to act relatively quickly because once the implant is removed, the pocket starts to close.

For patients with overfilled saline implants, I won't proceed with surgery without deflating the implant first. Deflating the implant is a safe procedure done using sterile techniques, similar to what's done if a rupture occurs.

Often, patients don't have their implant information readily available, making it challenging to determine the exact fill volume. After controlled deflation in the office over a period of two to four weeks, the tissues settle down, offering a glimpse of their natural state. While it's not an exact replica due to the short timeframe, this visual assessment aids in understanding the current situation. It also facilitates discussions about additional procedures like skin lifts or fat transfers.

Retrieving pre-implantation photos can be difficult, especially if records are paper-based or the implanting surgeon has retired. In our system, everything is electronic, ensuring easy access to records through our app. I also provide patients with a video of their surgery, documenting the removal process and examining the implants. While deflation doesn't fully restore the breasts, it provides valuable insights, making it a useful tool for both patients and surgeons.

For any inquiries, subscribe to our YouTube channel, comment on our video, or send us a DM on Instagram.

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Breast implants have been used for a relatively long time now. However, there is not enough research studies or discussions based on its effects which is why Breast Implant Illness (BII) is quite a new topic especially in the medical community and is not yet widely recognized.

Because of the lack of information and awareness with regard to the long-term effects of breast implants, many women suffer from breast implant illness. In today’s episode, we’ll be talking about the different aspects of breast implant illness.

Breast implant illness is already challenging to treat on its own. And so, it’s already a given fact that when a person has multiple factors contributing to the inflammation, it makes everything more complicated including the diagnosis and treatment.

There is also a tendency that you’re going to experience problems in your gastrointestinal (GI) system. The common symptoms are acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, overall swelling, and other digestive problems. And for some, they get aggressive skin symptoms like body acne and full body rashes.

Usually, people have already gone to several healthcare providers or other specialists before they have found me. Their concerns generally boil down to the fact that no one knows what’s wrong since their blood tests, medical tests, and everything else look normal.

At present, there is limited awareness of both allopathic and functional medicine practitioners but the good thing is that there is more work being done both at a basic science level and at clinical research levels to help expand our knowledge and understanding.

There’s a glutathione challenge with liposomal glutathione and more often than not, it's really enlightening to folks that something as simple as that can help them understand how they don't really detoxify well. Everything plays a role in breast implant illness – where we live, where we work, what we eat, what we drink, and the air we breathe.

There are many people at risk of having a leaky gut, which further exacerbates the problem. That’s why it is important to identify what stimulates your gastrointestinal tract. If you successfully accomplish that, you’ll be able to know your food sensitivities and everything else in relation to your digestive process.

I’m sure we are all aware of the different kinds of diet from plant-based diets, keto, and others. However, these dietary lifestyles don’t work for others. Maybe that's just not what they're supposed to do because they don't have the correct enzymatic makeup genetically to handle those types of diets.

Overall, genetics along with the standard tests conducted are vital in the treatment of breast implant illness. As time goes on, we'll focus on that even more as a specialty of medicine and a personalized approach in using someone's genetics to identify and explore toxicity and to optimize patients so they can live their best life.

In conclusion, the implant is a big generator of the problem in most cases and the good news is that we have a program for those patients faced with such problems. Many of our clients under our Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program (HARP™) are doing extremely well in terms of recovery. All thanks to the whole team who has been working hard and really devoting their hard work to help patients live their best life.

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I’m often asked whether or not there is a correlation between breast implants and mold toxicity. This is a topic that sparks considerable interest and concern among patients, as they seek to understand any possible implications for their health and well-being given the prevalence of mold-related health issues and the widespread use of breast implants.

In this episode, we aim to raise awareness and address such inquiries with clarity and accuracy, drawing upon both scientific evidence and clinical experience to provide informed insights and guidance to my patients.

There's considerable evidence suggesting a connection between high mold toxicity and breast implant illness in women. Through extensive testing, it's been found that around six of thousands of tested samples have shown the presence of fungi, which includes mold.

When I look at the numbers, it's clear that the instances of confirmed mold presence in breast implant illness cases are extremely low. Typically, there's a specific explanation for these cases, like one patient who was a triathlete and likely picked up mold during swimming competitions. It's crucial to recognize that water harbors various bacteria, fungi, and viruses, contributing to these isolated incidents.

However, in my extensive experience working with patients who have breast implants, I've observed that mold exposure is often tied to environmental factors such as air or food contamination. For example, Aspergillus, a prevalent type of black mold, presents a significant risk. This mold can thrive in various environments, including damp areas in homes or buildings, and can contaminate food sources if proper storage and handling practices are not followed.

Additionally, mold tends to grow more in certain weather conditions or times of the year, so patients need to be aware of possible exposure risks. While there are rare cases of mold directly in breast implants, the main focus should be on tackling environmental sources of mold to lower health risks for patients with implants.

When it comes to items like food and wine, it's important to be aware of the presence of ochratoxin, a type of mold toxin commonly found in wine worldwide. While the European Union has strict guidelines regulating ochratoxin levels in wine, the same standards aren't in place in the United States. This means consumers need to exercise caution, particularly when it comes to wine consumption.

Choosing wines labeled as dry farm or organic can provide a more reliable option, particularly for individuals particularly sensitive to mold toxins. Dry farming techniques involve cultivating grapes without irrigation, relying solely on natural rainfall, which can reduce the risk of mold growth compared to grapes grown using conventional methods.

Coffee production similarly poses a risk of mold contamination, so it's important to look for mold-free options. Brands like Bulletproof Coffee, founded by Dave Asprey, have gained popularity for focusing on providing mold-free coffee products. Being mindful of mold contamination in various food items, including grains and cereals, is essential for maintaining overall health and minimizing exposure to mold toxins.

The occurrence of mold exposure stems from a combination of factors, as I've observed in many of my patients and personally experienced living in Austin, where severe winter weather and inadequate home infrastructure can lead to water leaks and mold growth. Given these risks, I advise individuals who are particularly sensitive to mold to consider investing in air filters.

However, when considering these various options, it’s crucial to ensure they can effectively filter mold spores, which are smaller than bacteria, to safeguard against health issues. This is particularly important for individuals who may have genetic variations impacting their detoxification pathways, as they may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of mold exposure.

Beyond simply filtering out mold spores, it's also essential to consider the overall air quality within the home. Factors such as humidity levels, ventilation, and the presence of other pollutants can all contribute to the proliferation of mold and impact indoor air quality.

As a plastic surgeon who focuses on breast implant illness, my team and I are experienced in understanding the genetic factors and toxicities that affect our patients. We conduct urine toxicity tests and utilize glutathione challenges to assess their problems and tailor treatment plans accordingly. By focusing on improving the quality of fluid, food, and air intake, we aim to reduce inflammation, which we know correlates with symptom improvement.

Addressing mold exposure requires personalized protocols based on toxicity testing results and individual tolerance levels. Given the prevalence of sensitivity among our patients, careful consideration and tailored detoxification strategies are essential for managing their health effectively.

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In the second half of our two-part series on recovery following breast implant removal surgery, you’ll hear more about how we help patients recover faster from breast implant removal surgery.

Because lymph nodes are the body’s primary system for fighting infection, we prioritize lymphatic massage as an important step for speeding the healing process along. For this therapy, patients are cared for by our expert lymphatic massage therapist and treated with the Ballancer Pro to flush out toxins, boost the immune system, and shorten recovery time by releasing fluids.

When a fat transfer is included in the surgery to restore volume back into your breasts, the fat is placed between the skin of the breast and above the breast tissue.

Dr. Whitfield’s experience caring for thousands of patients over the years ensures that everything he does including fat transfers are safe and do not create issues with future mammograms.

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