Is fluid/seroma around textured implants a concern for BIA ALCL?

Hi,Firstly you should understand that ALCL is a very rare condition and although it usually presents as swelling with fluid around implants, most patients with this will NOT have ALCL. It also is very unlikely in 2 year old implants. We believe it is a condition that takes years to develop. 10 ml of fluid around implants is not likely of any concern. That is not much and is probably considered normal. If you feel hardness and there is a fold on MRI, the likely problem is capsular contracture, not ALCL. You are welcome to come and get an assessment.Regards,Dr Steve Merten, Sydney

Fluid collection around breast implants is very common and BIA ALCL is rare so the chance of your small fluid collection being BIA ALCL is extremely unlikely.  BIA ALCL also tends to occur as a late event, some 7 to 10 years following implantation.  There are a host of common reasons to have a small fluid collection around your implants.  Your best plan would be to see a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon to review your costs and tests. It may be possible to arrange an ultrasound guided aspiration of the fluid so it can be quickly and easily tested - again, don't worry, its extremely unlikely there is any cause for concern.  

Thanks for your question. One of the earliest signs of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is seroma formation  late after insertion of textured implants. The treatment is removal and capsulectomy with pathology performed on the fluid as well as the capsule. Axillary CT scan would be ordered if the path is positive. If chemotherapy is necessary after receptor analysis the course is usually 2 rounds of CHOP. Once this is done implant replacement is possible but smooth round implants should be used. Please see a board certified plastic surgeon as soon as possible for further asssessment and treatment. My patient has survived this disease and is happy with her outcome. Hope the same for you.