Commentary on: Risk Factors for Explantation of Breast Implants: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

An association between silicone breast implants and generalized systemic symptoms has been debated in the literature and media and more recently on social media platforms since the 1980s.1 Despite large-scale epidemiological studies, there is still uncertainty about this association. Historically, a potential association has been attributed to silicone acting as an adjuvant augmenting the immune response to external antigens, which may cross-react with our own tissues and lead to autoimmune disease. This problem has taken on many names, and the history has been previously described.2 Despite the lack of certainty regarding an association, there are still women who present with physical and psychological symptoms that they are convinced are being caused by their implants. These women present with...