Can Breast Implants Cause Cancer?

One of the most popular cosmetic procedures among women is breast augmentations, sitting only second to liposuction. Over 300,000 procedures were performed in 2015 alone.
That number becomes even more alarming considering the recent news linking breast implants to a rare form of cancer that may have killed at least nine people, according to the Food and Drug Administration [FDA].
The rare form of cancer is called anaplastic large cell lymphoma [ALCL], which is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The FDA first began looking into the possible link back in 2011 and is now looking into more than 350 reports claiming the link exists between both saline and silicone breast implants.
Because of the growing suspicion of the link between breast implants and ALCL, the FDA even coined a term for cancers that result from the cause: breast implant-associated [BIA] cancer. The FDA also feels it is important to note that BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer, just cancer that can develop following breast implants. ALCL is a cancer of the cells of the immune system and can occur in many different parts of the body like the skin and lymph nodes.
When it comes to BIA-ALCL, case studies have shown the cancer is usually found near the breast implant but not in the breast tissue itself.
The FDA has also found that BIA-ALCL tends to develop more often in women with textured implants versus those with smooth surfaced implants. While the surface of the implant seems to matter, the material inside the implant does not seem to affect the risk of BIA-ALCL.
With this rare cancer affecting women, the FDA recommends taking steps to educate yourself about breast implants and discuss the risks and benefits with the doctor before surgery. If you already have implants, it is recommended to continue routine medical care and follow-up.
If you notice pain, swelling, or any changes in or around the breast implant then you should contact your doctor immediately. If you end up diagnosed, the next best step to take is to contact a lawyer to protect your legal rights.
The experienced attorneys at Proner & Proner in New York, are knowledgeable with the recent BIA-ALCL research and are ready to help you hold the manufacturers accountable for their defective medical device. Contact us today at 800-776-5291 to schedule an evaluation of your case.
 
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.