- Patient Education
- by jfeaga
Breast Implant Associated –Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a very rare and uncommon cancer of the internal scar envelope that the body naturally forms around a breast implant and not the breast tissue itself. Unlike breast cancer which occurs in 1 out of 10 women, BIA-ALCL is estimated to occur in roughly 1 out of 30,000 breast implant patients.
It appears to be associated with fluid that develops around the scar envelope called the capsule. The fluid development in BIA-ALCL generally presents as a new fullness or enlargement, several years after breast implant surgery. The fluid, if it develops, can be tested for CD30 immune staining. If the fluid tested presents as positive, removal of the capsule and the implants is usually curative. BIA-ALCL appears to develop predominately in patients who have textured implants with high surface area roughness – devices such as the Allergan Biocell and polyurethane coating, compared to smooth surface implants. These highly textured devices are no longer being used. The FDA currently recommends that patients without breast changes or symptoms only need routine follow up and do not need to have their implants removed. If you have had implant surgery performed at the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, please be aware that we do not use Allergan Biocell. If you have any breast changes, fluid enlargement or breast concerns, please feel free to schedule an evaluation.
Visit https://www.plasticsurgery.org/patient-alcl-summary/frequently-asked-questions for more information.
