Wondering about Textured Breast Implants?
After recent increased concerns around breast implant safety, which prompted an FDA hearing in March 2019 focused on this issue, certain types of textured breast implants and tissue expanders with textured surfaces have now been taken off the market.
Here’s some information that may help you sort through your breast implant-related questions and be able to make an informed decision about options.
Does this decision affect all breast implants?
No, this is specifically regarding textured implants and expanders (not smooth ones) from only one of the implant manufacturers, Allergan. Both saline and silicone implants come in smooth and textured surfaces, but the vast majority of implants placed in the United States are smooth.
What is the concern with textured implants?
The main concern and the reason these implants have been taken off the market has to do with a rare type of lymphoma that has been linked to breast implants with textured surfaces. Depending on the implant type, rates of this type of lymphoma (called BI-ALCL) range from 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 30,000. Although there have unfortunately been a small number of deaths from this lymphoma, it is usually very treatable when identified early.
Is removal of already placed textured implants being recommended?
No, right now there is not a recommendation from any government agency or plastic surgery society to remove textured implants (even ones from Allergan, which have the highest rates of lymphoma with their textured implants). However, patients with any type of implants, textured or smooth, should follow-up with their plastic surgeon (or another board-certified plastic surgeon) for a check of their implants every year or sooner if they develop any new pain, swelling, or change in appearance or feel of their implants.