Allergan Breast Implant Recall
Allergan, the makers of BIOCELL breast implants, issued a recall in July 2019 for their line of macro-textured implants and tissue expanders. A recall was voluntarily issued as a cautionary measure due to a higher risk of developing BIA-ALCL (breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma). The following styles of textured implants and tissue expanders were recalled:
- 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
What is BIA-ALCL?
BIA-ALCL is a rare non-Hodgkin’s type of lymphoma that grows slowly, making it easy to catch and treat. Since 1996, there have been only 288 registered cases of BIA-ALCL in the United States. Symptoms of BIA-ALCL include a lump or bump in the breast or armpit, painful swelling, fluid retention, a red rash across the breasts, or hardening of the tissues around the breast implant.
What are macro-textured implants?
Macro-textured implants are silicone or saline textured implants with a rougher or bumpier surface than regular textured implants, developed to adhere more thoroughly to the surrounding tissue, reducing the chance of implant movement or rotation. Textured implants are not commonly used in the US, making up only 10% of implants. Macro-textured implants, such as those recalled, are used in only 5% of breast augmentations.
Will I need to have my Allergan implants removed or replaced?
If you currently have the recalled implants but do not have any symptoms of BIA-ALCL, it is not advised that you remove them unless they are older (8 to 10 years). However, you are urged to consult with your doctor to determine if breast implant exchange, implant removal, or a breast lift is the right option for you.
Dr. Shapiro has over 27 years of experience in helping patients in Scottsdale and the Paradise Valley achieve greater confidence with breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, and breast implant revision procedures. If you are concerned about your current implants or are interested to learn more about which implants may be right for you, please reach out to schedule a consultation.