Breast implants may not be as popular as they once were, but they still remain the number one plastic surgery request.
The link to breast cancer and breast implants has been controversial and often under studied.
In the UK, the majority of Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is diagnosed early and cured by removal of the implants with surrounding scar tissue with no additional cancer treatment required, according to Gov.uk.
It added: “However, in a small number of cases further treatment such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy may be required.
“It is not known why some people with breast implants develop BIA-ALCL and others do not.”
Several theories have been further researched internationally with the Food and Drug Administration sending a new warning.
The FDA recently warned women who have breast implants. or who may be considering them that certain cancers may develop in scar tissue forming around the implants.
Although rare, these malignancies have been linked to implants of all types.
These include textured and smooth surfaces and those filled with saline or silicone.
Scientists have previously found the link between an unusual cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma primarily found in textured implants.
These types of implants are known to have rough exteriors presumably causing more inflammation compared to those which are smooth.
What is lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer occurring in the lymphatic system – the part of the body's germ-fighting network.
There are two types of lymphoma namely Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes.
NHL is a cancer of the lymphatic system.
Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma
“Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma is not breast cancer - it is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma,” explains the FDA.
It added: “In most cases, Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant, but in some cases, it can spread throughout the body.
Most cases of Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma have been associated with BIOCELL implants made by Allergan.
Squamous cell carcinoma
The FDA. confirmed that link over a decade ago, however, textured implants, made by Allergan, were on the market until 2019.
The agency’s new warning called attention to another cancer, called squamous cell carcinoma, and also to other types of lymphoma that may be related to the implants.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is the second most common form of skin cancer.
What to do if concerned
According to the agency, advice for women who have breast implants or considering includes:
- If you are considering breast implants or if you have them, learn more about the risks and benefits of breast implants
- If you have breast implants, you do not need to change your routine medical care or follow-up
- Be aware that cases of SCC and various lymphomas in the capsule around the breast implant have been reported
- Monitor your breast implants for as long as you have them. If you notice any abnormal changes in your breasts or implants, promptly talk to your surgeon or health care provider
- If you do not have symptoms, the FDA does not recommend the removal of breast implants because of this safety communication
- If you have breast implants and experience a problem, the FDA encourages you to file a report.
