Breast Implants:

If you’re considering breast implants or have them already, you’ll want to read this. We talk to breast cancer surgeon DR GEORGETTE CHAN about cancer-related risks and other important things to know before – or after – going under the knife.

Here’s what you need to know

While there is fortunately no known link between breast implants and breast cancer, implants have been linked to a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma called Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Dr Chan explains that this cancer of the immune system is thought to arise from the constant “friction” between the breast implant and the surrounding capsule and breast tissue. BIA-ALCL is therefore usually found in the scar tissue and fluid around the implant.

An uncommon cancer

The first few cases of BIA-ALCL were picked up in 2011. The FDA has since reported 733 cases and 36 deaths worldwide, as of January 2020.

In both cosmetic patients and breast cancer reconstruction cases, the breast implants most commonly associated with this particular type of cancer are the textured ones. This includes both silicone and saline implants with textured outer shells.

While textured implants were designed to shift less and have a lower capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the breast implant) compared to smooth implants, many experts believe that their outer surfaces could trigger some women’s immune responses in a dangerous way that leads to BIA-ALCL.

This is a very rare form of cancer, according to Dr Chan. The lifetime incidence ranges from one in 2,200 to one in 86,000 women with breast implants, depending on the type of implant used.

What’s more, in cases where this cancer is found, the good news is that it’s a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that is usually quite treatable.

“Most cases are treated successfully with surgery to remove the implant and the surrounding scar tissue,” says Dr Chan. “For the rare cases that spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy may also be needed.”

What to do if you already have breast implants

Of course, any association between breast implants and cancer is worrisome. But, the FDA findings don’t necessarily mean you need to have your existing implants removed. Have a discussion with your doctor about what’s best for you.

And, of course, look out for any warning signs that could indicate BIA-ALCL. Symptoms include sudden pain and swelling or hardening in the breast – usually on one side – as well as asymmetry and redness on the skin.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to see the plastic surgeon who put in the breast implants or see a breast cancer surgeon,” says Dr Chan.

In addition to looking out for these warning signs, she says a patient can monitor for BIA-ALCL with mammograms and breast ultrasound scans annually, as we do for breast cancer screening.

What to do if you’re considering breast implants

Is the risk of cancer serious enough that women shouldn’t consider implants at all? Not necessarily. It’s important to put the potential risk in perspective, and talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits before ditching any dreams of breast implants. It’s also crucial to discuss the different types of implants available, and consider opting for smooth rather than textured materials.

“Implants with smooth surfaces are still a good option for those women looking to get breast implants, whether it’s for augmentation purposes or breast reconstruction after mastectomy,” says Dr Chan.

Dr Georgette Chan

#11-09 Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, 3 Mount Elizabeth 6836 5167 | georgettechan.com.sg