Can you get BIA -ALCL at a later date after explant?

Question

Can you get BIA-ALCL at a later date after breast implant removal surgery and you test negative for ALCL at the time of explant ? Particularly higher risk as textured Is the risk decreased with implants being in less than 1 year ? What should you be on the look for and get tested for yearly after explant ?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

If you test negative for ALCL at the time of explant, your risk of developing it later is considered very low. However, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider regularly for any changes in your health.

Regarding the duration implants are in place, the risk of BIA-ALCL is generally higher with textured implants regardless of the duration they have been in. If you have concerns about your specific situation, it’s essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and implant type.

After explant surgery, you should be vigilant about any changes in your breasts, such as swelling, pain, or lumps. Regular breast self-exams are recommended, and you should promptly report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Additionally, it’s a good practice to have routine follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your breast health after explant surgery.

Best of luck !

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I have attached a detailed video that specifically answers your question. BIA-ALCL is a rate form of cancer that is associated with breast implants, particularly textured implants. It primarily affects the immune system and can develop in the tissue around the implant. The risk of developing BIA-ALCL decreases significantly once the implants are removed, particularly if no cancer cells are present at the time of explant. If you have textured implants, the risk is higher, but if the implants have been in place for less than a year, the likelihood of developing BIA-ALCL is lower. Regular monitoring and awareness of any unusual changes are important in the years following explant surgery, and annual check-ups with your healthcare provider will help detect any potential issues early on. If you notice any abnormal symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly for evaluation.

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear BAquestions23 thank you for a very interesting question.

The management of BIA-ALCL remains a subject of ongoing research. BIA-ALCL has occurred in women who have undergone explantation without a capsulectomy, while a simple capsulectomy at the time of implant removal is not known to change the risk of developing BIA-ALCL. Therefore, current recommendations involve removing the implant and complete capsule, along with any associated mass and a rim or margin of surrounding healthy tissue, known as an en-bloc capsulectomy.

It's crucial to discuss any concerns with your surgeon and undergo evaluation if you observe changes in breast volume or the development of a seroma (fluid collection). Seeking timely medical attention can aid in early detection and appropriate management of potential complications associated with breast implants.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you have tested negative for BIA-ALCL your risk of developing the condition at a later time is very low.  However if you develop symptoms regardless of how long ago the implants were removed you should be evaluated by your doctor.  Symptoms include persistent swelling, mass, or pain of the breast.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

There have been some cases reported of BIA-ALCL occurring several years after textured implants and capsules were removed. However, in these women, they had kept their textured implants for many years. With less than a year in place, your capsule was not even completely formed. I suspect your risk is much lower than the other women, but I have heard no statistics about someone like you.  You could get a yearly ultrasound and breast exam to check for this tumor.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Not everything is known about this condition.
The duration of augmentation is most likely correlated with the incidence of developing a condition.
Recommendations are to continue routine care which should include breast, self examination, examinations by primary care, physician, and maintaining routine mammogram schedule.
Mats Hagstrom MD

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cel Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) can occur after breast implant removal (explantation). If you have concerns or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling or pain, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and medical guidance are key in addressing any potential health issues.

Can you get BIA -ALCL at a later date after explant?

Answers (7)

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