June 11, 2025

Hidden Illness Exposed with Andi Lew and Her “Treasured Chest” Explant Movement

Hidden Illness Exposed with Andi Lew and Her “Treasured Chest” Explant Movement
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Hidden Illness Exposed with Andi Lew and Her “Treasured Chest” Explant Movement
Hidden Illness Exposed with Andi Lew and Her “Treasured Chest” Explant Movement
Season 3

Episode Overview

In this powerful episode, Dr. Matt sits down with Andi Lew, acclaimed author, wellness presenter, and advocate, for an eye-opening discussion on Breast Implant Illness (BII). Drawing on her decades of experience and personal journey—as chronicled in her bestselling book, Treasured Chest: Exposing Explants and Empowering You—Andi exposes the hidden dangers, medical gaslighting, and emotional toll facing women experiencing BII. She also offers supportive and practical advice for women seeking answers, healing, and empowerment.

Key Topics Discussed

  • Andi Lew’s Story:
  • Andi opens up about her own experience with breast implants, the onset of unexplained health symptoms, struggles for a proper diagnosis, and the difficult, but life-affirming, journey to explant surgery.
  • Understanding Breast Implant Illness:
  • Definition and lack of official medical recognition.
  • Discussion of common BII symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, anxiety, inflammation, etc.).
  • The overlap with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and systemic inflammatory response due to foreign bodies.
  • The Medical Maze:
  • Andi recounts how she—and countless other women—were dismissed or ‘medically gaslit’ by healthcare providers, leading to years of frustration, multiple doctor visits, and delayed diagnosis and treatment.
  • Importance of persistence and self-advocacy.
  • The often cold or aesthetic-driven priorities within the plastic surgery field.
  • Surgical Considerations:
  • Discussing explant options like en bloc or total capsulectomy.
  • Why removing the scar tissue (capsule) is crucial.
  • The challenges of getting a timely surgery, insurance gaps, and the high out-of-pocket costs.
  • Advances in reconstructive options (e.g., using body fat).
  • Industry Injustice & Informed Consent:
  • Recalls, lack of transparency, poor follow-up from manufacturers.
  • Problems with informed consent—not being warned of systemic health risks.
  • The irony of BII risks being disregarded, especially in breast cancer survivors.
  • Empowerment & Healing:
  • Importance of building the right medical support team.
  • Journaling and documenting symptoms for self-advocacy.
  • The gift and burden of sharing publicly, the growth after trauma, and support from online communities.
  • Practical Resources & Where to Get Help:
  • How to find qualified explant surgeons.
  • The role of social media and online groups for support and information.
  • Andi’s offer of a complimentary coaching call for readers who purchase her book.
  • Changing the Narrative:
  • The growing movement to recognize BII.
  • The need for increased awareness and compassion from both the medical community and society.
  • Empowerment over aesthetics, redefining beauty, and finding strength in vulnerability.

Recommended Resources

  • Book: Treasured Chest: Exposing Explants and Empowering You – Available at andilew.com
  • Connected: A Paradigm Shift in How We View Health – Andi's holistic wellness guide (also available on Audible)
  • Andi Lew on Instagram: @andi.lew – DM her after book purchase for a complimentary coaching call
  • Facebook/Instagram BII Support Groups – For community, shared experiences, and practical advice

How to Connect with Andi Lew

  • Website: andilew.com
  • Instagram: @andi.lew
  • Stay tuned to her social media for upcoming speaking events

Takeaways for Listeners

  • If you or someone you know is suffering from unexplained symptoms and has breast implants, consider BII as a possible cause.
  • Advocate for yourself: keep symptom journals, persist in seeking proper care, and connect with supportive communities.
  • Compassion, education, and empowerment are critical to healing.
  • Medical professionals: familiarize yourself with BII and be open-minded for your patients’ wellbeing.


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