Recent media coverage of an FDA update regarding BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is causing a lot of concern among breast implant patients. First of all, patients should know that BIA-ALCL is not new, and that this is a very rare disease. Also, it is only associated with textured implants. During every breast augmentation consult I do with every potential patient, we go over this information. In fact, rarely do my patients and I choose a textured implant.
My colleague Dr. William Adams has published this informative update with a video from the Plastic Surgery Channel: An Update to Breast Implant-Associated ALCL.
The video is below for your viewing.
The bottom line, as spelled out in this report, is:
"Breast Implant-Associated ALCL is not new and there is excellent research and progress in reducing its occurrence and improving the treatment should it occur. Here’s what patients should know:I also recommend this in-depth post by another colleague, Dr. Karen Horton: ALCL and Breast Implants? The Rare Incidence of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
- It is a rare disease that appears to be associated with TEXTURED breast implants
- If you notice significant swelling or changes in breast shape and size, call your plastic surgeon
- If diagnosed and treated properly, it is curable
- Patients desiring breast implants should know the difference between textured and smooth implants and discuss the best option for them with their surgeon."
The FDA information page on ALCL has these recommendations for patients:
Educate yourself about breast implants before agreeing to surgery. Breast implants approved in the U.S. can be filled with either saline or with silicone gel. They come in different sizes and shapes and have either smooth or textured surfaces (shells). Additional information is available on FDA's Breast Implants website.Additional Recommended Resources on BIA-ALCL:
Although it is rare, BIA-ALCL appears to develop more frequently in women with textured implants than in women with smooth-surfaced implants. Before getting breast implants, make sure to talk to your health care provider about the benefits and risks of textured-surface vs. smooth-surfaced implants.
If you have breast implants, there is no need to change your routine medical care and follow-up. BIA-ALCL is rare. Although not specific to BIA-ALCL, you should follow standard medical recommendations including:
- Follow your doctor's instructions on how to monitor your breast implants. If you notice any changes, contact your health care provider promptly to schedule an appointment. Get routine mammography screening and ask for a technologist specifically trained in performing mammograms on patients with breast implants.
- If you have silicone gel-filled breast implants, get periodic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect ruptures as recommended by your health care provider. The FDA-approved product labeling for silicone gel-filled breast implants states that the first MRI should occur three years after implant surgery and every two years thereafter.
Please explore these excellent resources, and, as always, if you have additional questions or note any swelling, please contact my office at 781-934-2200 to schedule a consultation.
Christine Hamori Cosmetic Surgery + Skin Spa
113 Tremont Street, Duxbury, Massachusetts, 02332
Call us: 781-934-2200
Serving Boston's South Shore, Cape Cod and Nantucket
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