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Patient Newsletter Addressing the Link Between Breast Implants and A Rare Form of Cancer

Breast augmentation and reconstruction are two of the most popular plastic procedures among women. With growing concerns about a link between breast implants a rare form of cancer, Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery released this patient newsletter:

As a patient in the practice of Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery, we feel it necessary to inform you of recent issues with breast implants. Many of you have now seen or read recent media reports referencing the possible link between breast implants and a rare form of cancer called BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). While this is occurring in an extremely small subset of patients with breast implants, there appears to be some link.

BIA-ALCL is not a breast cancer, but a rare T-cell lymphoma that usually develops as a fluid and swelling around the textured shell breast implant. According to the ASPS and the FDA, thus far, there have been no confirmed cases of BIA-ALCL in women who have had only smooth-shell breast implants. The lifetime risk for this disease appears to be about 1 case for every 30,000 textured implants placed. This equates to a 0.003 percent risk. Both the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) and others are gathering more and more data on this rare disease.

The FDA is not recommending removal of textured implants nor have they advised against their placement. Rather, the FDA recommends, as do we, that every woman conducts regular self-examinations. If you develop swelling or a lump in your breast, contact our office right away. We will comprehensively evaluate you and order the appropriate tests to determine if any treatment is indicated.

While more information is being gathered, we at Bruno | Brown Plastic surgery have elected to stop the use of textured implants from all breast manufacturers until further research on this type of implant is more complete. If you are concerned that you may have this textured type of implant or have any concerns about your implants, please call the office at 301-215-5955.

To view the patient letter, click here.

 


 

Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery specializes in safe, effective DC breast reconstruction and breast augmentation in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Chevy Chase, MD. If you have any concerns about your implants, please contact us right away.

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