A recent FDA hearing regarding BIA-ALCL or Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, states now they are 457 cases reported since 2010 with nine deaths. BIA-ALCL has been associated in patients with a history of textured surface implant device. This is not a cancer of the breast tissue, but of the scar envelope that forms naturally around the implant called the “capsule”. The most common symptom is swelling of the breast over many years after the insertion of a textured breast implant. The disease can also present with a lump in the breast or an enlarged lymph node in the armpit. When caught early, it may be curable in most patients.

Bayview Plastic Surgery has never used or will not use a textured breast implant from any manufacturer because of this rare type of lymphoma. Please call the office for any additional questions, 713-799-9999.

Additional resources for patients are available at www.plasticsurgery.org/alcl-info