Posted on: August 7, 2023
BIA-ALCL stands for Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, a rare form of cancer associated with breast implants. It is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that develops in the scar tissue and fluid around the implant. BIA-ALCL has been reported in all types of breast implants, both saline and silicone.
BIA-ALCL is a type of cancer that affects the immune system and can cause tumors to grow in the area surrounding the breast implant. The exact cause of this disease is unknown, however it has been linked to certain chemicals used in the manufacturing process of breast implants.
The exact cause of BIA-ALCL is still unknown, however it is believed to be related to certain chemicals used in the manufacturing process of breast implants. Additionally, it has been suggested that certain genetic factors may play a role in increasing an individual’s risk for developing BIA-ALCL.
The risk factors for developing BIA-ALCL include having textured or polyurethane foam covered breast implants, having had multiple surgeries involving your breasts or implants, having had radiation therapy near your breasts, and having a suppressed immune system due to medications or illnesses like HIV/AIDS or lupus. Additionally, women who have had their implants for more than 8 years are at higher risk for developing BIA-ALCL than those who have had them for less time.
At Milwaukee Liposuction Specialty Clinic we understand how important it is to stay informed about potential risks associated with cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation and reconstruction surgery. Our team of experienced specialists are committed to providing our patients with reliable information regarding all aspects of their procedure so they can make an informed decision about their health care needs. We also offer a variety of surgical techniques including en bloc technique as well as National Comprehensive Cancer Network’s recommendation to ensure optimal safety during implant removal procedures. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your desired aesthetic goals!
BIA-ALCL is a type of cancer associated with breast implants, and risk factors include textured or polyurethane foam covered implants, multiple surgeries, radiation therapy, and suppressed immune systems.
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of cancer that can be found in the scar tissue and fluid near breast implants. Although it is uncommon, it is important to be aware of the potential symptoms associated with this disease.
One of the most common signs of BIA-ALCL is swelling or pain around the breast implant area. This may appear suddenly or gradually over time and can range from mild to severe. Additionally, patients may experience an increase in redness, tenderness, and warmth in this area as well as an overall feeling of tightness in the skin surrounding the implant.
Patients may also experience breast pain, tightness, and asymmetry which could indicate that BIA-ALCL is present. Pain can range from mild to severe and may seem localized to one side or both sides of the chest depending on whether both implants are affected. Additionally, patients may notice that their breasts feel tighter than usual due to fluid build up in the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant. Asymmetry between breasts could be caused by a difference in size or shape due to fluid collection around one implant more than another.
It is important for those with breast implants to be aware of any changes that occur in their breasts so they can seek medical attention if necessary. The Milwaukee Liposuction Specialty Clinic provides a multitude of different liposuction technologies under one roof at our office located at 200 S Executive Dr #101 Brookfield, WI for anyone looking for information about BIA-ALCL or other medical issues related to breast implants.
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Symptoms of BIA-ALCL
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Swelling or pain around the breast implant area
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Breast pain, tightness, and asymmetry
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Mild to severe pain
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Increase in redness, tenderness, and warmth in the area
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Overall feeling of tightness in skin surrounding the implant
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Explant surgery is the process of removing a breast implant from its original location. It is typically done to treat breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare type of cancer that can develop around the implant. The two most common techniques used for explant surgery are the En Bloc technique and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network’s recommendation.
The en bloc technique is a surgical procedure in which both implants, along with their surrounding scar tissue capsules, are removed in one piece. This technique ensures that any BIA-ALCL cells are completely removed from the body and reduces the risk of leaving any behind. During this procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the skin to access the implant and then use special instruments to carefully detach it from its capsule before removing it from the body.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends that all explant surgeries should be done using an en bloc technique when possible, as this is believed to reduce the risk of leaving any BIA-ALCL cells behind. However, if this is not possible due to medical reasons or because of a difficult implant location, then they recommend using a total capsulectomy instead. In this procedure, only the scar tissue capsule around the implant is removed and not the implant itself.
During breast augmentation surgery, a scar tissue capsule forms around each implant as part of your body’s natural healing process. Over time, this capsule can become thickened or hardened which can cause discomfort and pain for some patients. During explant surgery, these capsules must be carefully removed along with the implants to ensure that any BIA-ALCL cells are not left behind in the body.
Explant surgery is used to treat BIA-ALCL, with en bloc and total capsulectomy techniques recommended. Scar tissue capsules form around implants during augmentation.
BIA-ALCL, or Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, is a rare form of cancer that has been linked to breast implants. Although the incidence of BIA-ALCL is low, it is important to be aware of the symptoms associated with this condition and the possible need for explant surgery. According to the FDA, there have been 573 cases reported worldwide as of July 2020, and most of these cases have involved textured implants rather than smooth implants.
The FDA recommends that all patients with breast implants undergo regular monitoring for any signs or symptoms associated with BIA-ALCL. This includes regular physical exams and imaging tests such as mammograms or MRI scans. If any changes are noticed in the breast area or if any symptoms develop, then further testing may be recommended by a physician. Additionally, those who have had their implants for many years should also consider having them removed even without any symptoms due to the potential risk of developing BIA-ALCL over time.
It is important to be aware of early signs and symptoms associated with BIA-ALCL in order to identify it early on and seek prompt medical attention if necessary. Common signs and symptoms include swelling or pain around the breast implant area, breast pain, tightness, and asymmetry, as well as lumps or masses in the breast area. Additionally, fluid buildup around the implant may also occur which could indicate a possible infection or other issue that requires medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.
If it is determined that explant surgery is needed due to suspected BIA-ALCL or other complications from an existing implant, then it is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in revision procedures at Milwaukee Liposuction Specialty Clinic located at 200 S Executive Dr #101 Brookfield WI. has extensive experience performing breast implant revisions and can provide patients with safe and effective results while minimizing scarring and other risks associated with surgical procedures.
At the Milwaukee Liposuction Specialty Clinic, we understand that breast implants can come with a variety of risks and complications. BIA-ALCL is a rare but serious type of cancer that has been linked to breast implants. We strive to provide our patients with the most up-to-date information about this condition so that they can make informed decisions about their health. Although the occurrence of BIA-ALCL is low, it is important to be aware of the early signs and symptoms. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your breast implants, we encourage you to contact us at 200 S Executive Dr #101 Brookfield, WI to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced board-certified plastic surgeons. Our team is committed to providing you with the best care possible and will work with you to find a solution that meets your individual needs and goals.
