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Hormones, Metabolism & You!

46: The Hidden Dangers of Breast Implants: Exploring the Connection to Autoimmune Conditions with Dr. Robert Whitfield

Feb 17, 2025
53:48

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TL:DR: In this episode of "Back to the Basics," Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with holistic plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Whitfield to chat about breast implant illness. Dr. Whitfield shares his personal journey, starting from his work in oncology to now focusing on breast implant illness. He talks about common symptoms like chronic inflammation, fatigue, and joint pain. Dr. Whitfield stresses the importance of doing thorough evaluations, which include genetic testing and toxicity assessments, before deciding on surgery. They also delve into the history of breast implants and why it's crucial to have a holistic, patient-focused approach to care. Dr. Whitfield believes in making informed decisions and conducting comprehensive health evaluations to promote effective healing.

About Dr. Robert Whitfield: Dr. Robert Whitfield is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience, specializing in Breast Implant Illness (BII) and explant surgery. He earned his medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine in 1996, followed by six years of surgical training and a plastic surgery residency at Indiana University Medical Center. He further honed his skills with a microsurgery fellowship in Nevada before serving as a faculty member at the Medical College of Wisconsin for seven years. 

In 2012, Dr. Whitfield relocated to Austin, Texas, where he established his private practice in 2017. He has performed over 5,000 breast procedures, including more than 1,500 implant removals. Dr. Whitfield is also the author of "SHARP," a book detailing his holistic approach to surgical preparation and recovery. He is recognized for his commitment to patient safety and his integrative approach to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.

Connect with Dr. Robert Whitfield:

Show Highlights:

  • 00:00:01 Introduction to Breast Implant Illness

  • 00:00:54 Dr. Whitfield's Background

  • 00:02:07 Journey into Breast Implant Illness

  • 00:03:18 Discovery of Infection and What It Means

  • 00:05:39 Rise of Breast Implant Illness Awareness

  • 00:08:41 Functional Approach to Patient Care

  • 00:12:07 Importance of Comprehensive Testing

  • 00:13:08 The SHARP Method Protocol

  • 00:19:37 Autoimmune Conditions and Breast Implants

  • 00:32:26 Holistic Recovery Program

Links and Resources:

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