Is it necessary to change out silicone implants that have high risk for ALCL?

Thanks for your question! It would be the prudent thing to exchange your implants to get ahead of any problem that may present with the recalled implants. Best of luck!

Good question. Current FDA recommendations are to leave the textured implants alone if you are not having any symptoms. That being said, each patient is different. You may consider changing your implants for peace of mind.

Dear ErkErk,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question. While it is not 100% necessary to change out your textured implants, you are at increased risk to develop ALCL. The risk may be as high as 1 out of 100 depending On how long your implants have been in for. Your surgeon should remove the capsule as well at the time of removing your implants. Good luck.

The good news is that you have been diligent and responsible with your breast examinations. You must not feel that removing your Allergan Natrelles is an emergency. That said, the recommendation is indeed to electively remove and replace the aggressively textured implants (which you have) since they seem to have the highest cumulative risk for the development of ALCL. Since you have already made a decision to revise your augmentation, you can do so at your convenience. In general terms, the longer you wait, the greater the theoretical risk, but based on all of the accumulated data thus far, the risk remains low, but as time moves on we may find a higher incidence than first reported. Your decision to go with Motiva Ergonomix is fine. Other options include Mentor and Sientra, as well as Allergan smooth. Most of these implants are quite comparable. Best of luck to you.

If you are not having ALCL symptoms or issues with your implants there is no current recommendation to have them removed. As always, you can elect to have your implants removed or exchanged at any time if you wish.

This risk is actually still low, and the FDA does not recommend removing implants in women with no signs or symptoms. However, mammograms or ultrasounds are good to do. Change them out if you wish to make you feel better.