Today (July 24) the U.S. Food & Drug Administration announced that ‘textured’ breast implants made by Allergan are being recalled due to the risk of developing Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). All “BIOCELL” Natrelle products manufactured by Allergen, both implants and tissue expanders, are being removed from the consumer market.
- Natrelle Saline-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle Silicone-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle Inspira Silicone-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle 410 Highly Cohesive Anatomically Shaped Silicone-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle 133 Plus Tissue Expander
- Natrelle 133 Tissue Expander with Suture Tabs
BIA-ALCL is a rare form of T-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which is a cancer of the immune system. It is not “breast cancer” but does develop in the tissues surrounding the implant. The main symptom of BIA-ALCL is persistent swelling, pain and fluid accumulation around the implant. The implant contents (whether saline or silicone) are not a factor in developing BIA-ALCL. The roughened, ‘textured’ shell of the implant, designed to better hold the implant in place, has been singled out as the root cause. Symptoms may not occur until 8-10 years after breast reconstruction or augmentation surgery. Patients who are diagnosed with BIA-ALCL need early diagnosis and intervention including surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) contact us online or call 1-866-252-3535 for a free consultation.
If you have been implanted with Allergen’s ‘textured’ breast implants, contact your health care provider for consultation and screening. A physical exam, diagnostic imaging and testing of the fluid or tissue around your implants can determine a BIA-ALCL diagnosis.