Breast Implants
Research indicates that about four percent of women living in the United States have breast implants. Although four percent does not sound like a very large sample size, that amounts to millions of women in the country. Most women have elected to wear breast implants because of reconstructive surgery after beating breast cancer or another terrible, life-altering disease. Women who had breast cancer or who have a genetic predisposition to developing breast cancer may choose to have a mastectomy. The surgeon removes the natural breast tissue and replaces it with silicone implants. The remainder of the women in the U.S. who wear breast implants chooses to do so for cosmetic reasons according to bluevirginia.us.
Women who thought that breast implants are safe now fear that they could develop a rare form of cancer called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, or BIA-ALCL. The link between certain breast implants and BIA-ALCL is so strong that one company, Allergen, recalled its textured implants. The product recalled by Allergen is known as Biocell. Biocell implants are textured rather than smooth. The textured surface might be the cause of BIA-ALCL because of changes to the natural breast tissue that occur over time from coming in contact with the textured surface.
Allergen announced its intention to recall its Biocell breast implants after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found evidence of this particular cancer growing in women who have textured implants. The FDA cautions women who have textured implants to remain vigilant about undergoing annual diagnostic and preventative medical procedures. Furthermore, those women with textured implants should closely consult their doctors to learn more about their options. The FDA is not recommending revision surgery right now, but the agency’s prevailing opinion might change if further evidence is developed through testing. Women should also familiarize themselves with the early signs and symptoms of BIA-ALCL and seek treatment immediately.
