For various reasons, women who have had breast augmentation in the past are now opting for breast explant surgery to have implants removed.

Sometimes, it is for cosmetic reasons; what once seemed like a good idea may lose its appeal years later. Another issue is comfort, particularly as it affects the lower back; large breasts can put a great deal of stress on the lumbar region.

However, the most serious issue is a certain type of cancer that has been associated with textured breast implants.

A Rare But Deadly Form of Cancer

Breast Inplant-Associated Anaplastic Cell Lymphoma (BIA-AACL) by itself is a rare form of cancer, of which only 457 cases have ever been reported (out of approximately 1.5 million breast augmentation surgeries performed annually). According to a case study appearing in a Baylor University Medical School journal in 2017, researchers are not sure what it is about implants that cause the disease; however, it has been noted that the majority of cases have involved textured implants rather than the smooth type.

The FDA reports that half of all cases of BIA-AACL were diagnosed within 8 years of implantation.

Not to Be Confused With Breast Cancer

The disease that is motivating women to undergo breast explant surgery differs from breast cancer. It is actually a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is a cancer of the immune system, often associated with exposure to toxic chemicals. Because this type of cancer attacks the lymphatic system, it can spread throughout the body, making it particularly dangerous.

About Textured Breast Implants

These particular implants were designed to develop scar tissue that holds them in place, making them less likely to fall out of place and become repositioned. Since the buildup of scar tissue is a result of irritation, it suggests that inflammation may play a role.

Appallingly, despite the evidence linking BIA-AACL with textured implants, the FDA has decided not to ban the product. Textured breast implants have been banned in France, with similar bans being considered in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

More Reasons to Have Breast Explant Surgery

Breast implants have been linked to a number of other illnesses, including cancer of the brain, cervix and lung, arthritis, diseases of the ligaments and cartilage, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and more. Many of these issues are associated with silicone implants, especially after leaking.

Symptoms of BIA-AACL

Signs of BIA-AACL include:

• breast pain and/or hardening
• lumps in the breast or lymph nodes
• dermal rash
• edema (fluid build-up)

Women with textured implants who notice these symptoms should consult with a physician immediately and consider breast explant surgery, as BIA-AACL is highly treatable if caught early on.

Did Manufacturers Know?

This is the multi-million dollar question that is motivating lawsuit investigations. A report published last fall by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists states that for many years, cases of breast-implant related illnesses were reported as routine events – and no public disclosure was required. However, after the FDA began more stringent enforcement of reporting rules in 2017, the number of reports increased dramatically.

If you have had breast implantation surgery and have developed an illness since that cannot be otherwise explained, you may have grounds for legal action.

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.