Breast Implant increases the risk of suffering from cancer in the lymph nodes. 

As of September 30, 2017, the FDA had received a total of 414 medical device reports (MDRs) of Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), including the death of nine patients.

Of these, 234 reported implants filled with silicone gel and 179 reported implants filled with saline. While the MDR reports provide information regarding the implant at the time of BIA-ALCL diagnosis, they do not typically give information about a patient’s history of breast implants. In the MDR reports, half of the reported cases were diagnosed within 7-8 years of implantation. It is important to note that at the time of diagnosis, patients may have their original breast implants or they may have had one or more replacements.

 

Education to the Patients

1. 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).
2. BIA-ALCL appears to develop more frequently in individuals with textured implants than in people with smooth-surfaced implants. Before getting breast implants, make sure to talk to your health care provider about the benefits and risks of both textured-surface and smooth-surfaced implants.
3. If you have breast implants, there is no need to change your routine medical care and follow-up. You should expect swelling and pain immediately after surgery. If you notice changes in the way your breast looks or feels after you recover from surgery—including swelling or pain around the implant—be sure to talk to your health care provider about the possibility of BIA-ALCL.
4. 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.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions for routine mammography screening. Be sure to inform the mammography facility that you have breast implants so enough time is scheduled for your mammogram. Your doctor may also recommend other tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).