Thanks to breast implants, women can enhance their curves and improve their overall figure. There are risks to keep in mind after breast augmentation, however. For example, implant ruptures can negatively impact health in patients with silicone breast implants. According to new findings by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), patients with textured breast implants must also consider potential health risks.
The team at our San Mateo, CA plastic surgery center would like to go over new information from the FDA that suggests a potential link between textured breast implants and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). We’ll note signs and symptoms of ALCL and then consider what this could mean for past, present, and future breast enlargement patients.
About Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma; ALCL is also a subtype of T cell lymphoma. This form of cancer affects white blood cells known as lymphoctyes. As ALCL spreads, it negatively impacts the lymphatic system and can lead to problems with your general health and wellness.
ALCL comprises an estimated 16 percent of all T cell lymphomas and just 1 percent of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas. It’s most common among people 24 years old and younger.
With early detection and treatment, the survival rates of ALCL are high.
Information from the Food and Drug Administration
According to new findings from the FDA, there is a correlation between cases of ALCL and the use of textured breast implants.
By September 30, 2017, the FDA received 414 medical device reports linking breast implants to ALCL. Of the 414 reports, 272 included information about the surface texture of the breast implants: 242 implants had a textured surface, while just 30 had a smooth surface.
It’s worth noting that 413 of these medical device reports to the FDA included information on the filling/composition of the breast implants: 234 of the reported implants were filled with silicone gel, and 179 were filled with saline solution.
Symptoms Associated with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
If you have breast implants, please be aware of the following symptoms and warning signs associated with ALCL:
- Fatigue
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Red bumps on the skin
Should you notice any combination of the symptoms listed above, be sure to consult your doctor as soon as possible. As we noted, the survival rate of ALCL is high with early detection.
Should Patients with Textured Breast Implants Worry?
If you have textured breast implants and are concerned about the ALCL risk, be sure to consult your doctor about your best options regarding your health. Your doctor may suggest regular ALCL screenings and increased attention to general wellness.
For patients who are particularly concerned about the risk of ALCL, implant revision is an option. This process involves replacing previous breast implants with new ones.
What This Means for Future Breast Augmentation Procedures
Even though the risk of ALCL is quite low given the sheer number of breast augmentation procedures performed each year, we take these health risks seriously.
Given the FDA’s findings, we will take additional time to discuss the risks and benefits of breast augmentation surgery with our patients. We will also offer our advice on how to minimize the risks of ALCL and other possible health complications. Your aesthetic goals and your long-term lasting health are our highest priorities.
Learn More about Your Cosmetic Surgery Options
For more information about breast augmentation surgery, revision procedures, and other surgical matters, contact a skilled cosmetic surgeon. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.
