Does any surgeon test for BIA ALCL CD 30 aspiration and send implants to pathology? Breast Implant Illness? (Photo)

As you know, Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA ALCL) is a rare T cell lymphoma that can develop after breast implants. It appears to present mainly in women with textured breast implants, and typically presents as a late onset seroma. I completely understand wanting to remove your implants and not wanting new ones placed. I see the rash and skin changes in the photos, but there are a lot of unanswered questions, such as what symptoms you noticed and when,when you had your breast augmentation, what type of implants, where they were placed, what your work up has been thus far, what findings you have on exam, and what imaging you have had if any. The photos are helpful but not nearly enough information is provided to give you comprehensive guidance, or even a diagnosis. If you are planning for implant removal regardless, if there is any suspicion of ALCL, then the implant and capsule should be removed as well as any periprosthetic fluid. In the case of BIA ALCL, your care would involve a multi-disciplinary team, not just a plastic surgeon. Can someone get an illness following breast implants? Yes. Do surgeons, or the medical community in general, think breast implants make all women sick? No. 

hello donnadybdal  Current medical information does not demonstrate an increased risk of breast cancer in women who have breast implant surgery for either cosmetic or reconstructive purposes.  Individuals with a personal history or family history of breast cancer may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer than a woman with no family history of this disease.  It is recommended that all women perform periodic self-examination of their breasts, undergo routine mammography according to American Cancer Society guidelines, and seek professional care should a breast lump be detected.  In the event that suspicious tissue is identified prior to or during breast surgery, additional tests and therapy with corresponding expenses may be warranted. #options #aspiration  

Thank you for your pictures and questions. There are tests for ALCL but understand that this is very rare and likely not the cause of your problems. In addition, the implants can be sent to pathology, but there is no "test" to check for implant illness. Also, I would suggest you temper your opinions regarding implant illness and surgeons and just concentrate on your goals of having the implants removed.Good luck!