18 October 2022. Dr Dominguez speaking on International Vision Latina television program "Manana Latina" on Breast Implant Cancer.

18 October 2022. Dr Dominguez speaking on International Vision Latina television program "Manana Latina" on Breast Augmenation.

BIA-ALCL

Breast Implant Associated - Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

 Not a breast cancer but a cancer of the immune system found in the scar tissue around TEXTURED implants both saline and silicone. It’s a local cancer that removal of the textured implants MAY cure. However some may require chemo or radiation. In 2019 the FDA required Allergan to stop selling textured implants ( BIOCELL) due to 573 cases of cancer and 33 death’s worldwide. The risk of ALCL is very low but patients must be aware of it. Routine breast exam including MRI is recommended.

As of September 1, 2022 the FDA released a report stating that due to research on the scar tissue removed from the implant capsule there are 10 cases of SCC and 12 cases of various lymphomas. This is in addition to the data known before September 1, 2022.

No current FDA recommendations for textured implant removal unless patient symptoms or condition warrants removal.

Unknown incidence for both textured and smooth breast implants however it is Rare. 1:90,000. Symptoms start about 2 years after implant and typically include swelling-fluid collection, pain, lumps, or skin changes. The average breast implant age for onset of symptoms is 8-10 years.

Dx of BIA-ALCL (not meant to be a guideline or inclusive)

-Routine examination by primary physician or plastic surgeon

-Routine mammogram or US

-needle aspirate of peri-implant fluid

-PET scan for metastasis

-oncologist

-removal of scar capsule

-lymph node survey

-chemo/radiation