Allergan Implant Recall - having issues and need removing

Question

I had breast surgery in 2009 with textured Allergan implants.I thought they had a life time warranty if anything went wrong.I have been suffering from capsule contracture & have very sore misshapen breasts due to this.I’m also worried that the capsule which is a hard lump may result in cancer due to the recall that I never knew about as I wasn’t informed.I originally had my surgery with MyBreast Dr Baguley who has now retired. Does anyone know what I can do about this?

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your situation. Here are a few things to know that will help you decide which way to go: First, the lifetime warranty is only for implant rupture. The manufacturers did add coverage for capsular contracture a few years ago but it does not apply retroactively. The recall for textured implants was a voluntary withdrawal by Allergan, due to a rare condition called ALCL. This has been known for about 10 years but had not been identified in 2009 when you had your implants. Allergan was offering a replacement smooth implant but I am not sure if it still applies in your case. If there is a mass and capsular contracture, then you should have a capsulectomy.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @jaycee2022, thank you for your question. A personalized consultation is needed to make a surgical plan that takes into account your expectations regarding the outcome. My opinion is that the breast tissue must be reconstructed after removal of the capsule and prosthesis during explantation surgery. As a result, neither the breast nor the result are deformed or deflated. Every ten years, prostheses should be changed. A permanent alternative is to augment the volume of your breast with your own fat. However, it is prudent to wait approximately 3 months after the explant. For more information and recommendations, it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can contact Allergan directly for assistance.  If you have your implant serial number and information that would be helpful.  If you know the facility where you had the procedure performed, they can help locate your operative report if you don't have your implant information.

Arthur Shektman, MD · Answer

You can reach out to Allergan directly they should be able to direct you to a surgeon in your area.  Best of luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

First, Allergan is not telling women who have textured implants to remove them. Second, your lifetime warranty covers breakage of the implant.  If you bought the extended warranty at the time of surgery, the capsule is covered up to $3500 for the first ten years.  Third, the lymphoma risk is rare, little over 300 women in the US, but have a mammogram to be checked if you are concerned.  Fourth, you can see any plastic surgeon and asked to be checked.

Allergan Implant Recall - having issues and need removing

Answers (7)

Answer: Allergan Implant Recall

Answer: Allergan Implant Recall

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Allergan Implant Recall - having issues and need removing

Answers (7)

Answer: Allergan Implant Recall

Answer: Allergan Implant Recall

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.