Can Breast Implants Cause Breast Cancer?

If you have breast implants or have considered getting them, you may have wondered about the risk. Many women ask, “Can breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer?”

Breast implants do not cause or increase your risk of developing breast cancer. However, research has discovered that some implants raise a higher risk of a rare type of lymphoma.

Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and is an immune system cancer. 

The link between ALCL and breast implants was first reported by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011. It is unknown why breast implants increase the risk of getting ALCL, but experts have discovered that women with this rare type of lymphoma have implants with texture instead of a smooth surface. Both textured and smooth implants are used for reconstructive and cosmetic purposes. 

It isn’t clear why textured implants have increased the risk of breast implant-associated ALCL (BIA-ALCL). Still, experts believe the textured surface may cause inflammation in some women’s immune systems, possibly leading to cancer. Further research is needed to understand the connection between the disease and breast implants.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms may include:

  • Swollen breast

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Lumps or changes in the shape of your breast

  • Pain around the implant

  • A skin rash near your breast

  • New scar tissue

  • Hardening in your breast

  • Exhaustion

You may experience symptoms any time after breast implant surgery, but it usually takes years for BIA-ALCL symptoms to develop. If you experience any of the symptoms listed, contact your healthcare provider.

The chances of getting BIA-ALCL are very low. According to experts, 1 out of 50,000 women with implants may get lymphoma. 

Treatment of BIA-ALCL

The treatment for BIA-ALCL involves surgically removing the implants and cancer. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are sometimes needed in patients with advanced cases. If BIA-ALCL is caught early, in most cases, it’s curable.

Any connection between breast implants and cancer is alarming. But it’s important to know all the possible risks. If you have textured breast implants but are not having symptoms, the information provided isn’t recommending having your breast implants removed. It’s important to be aware of the possible symptoms, schedule routine checkups with your healthcare provider, and report any signs or concerns immediately.

If you are considering breast implants, talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks. 

Schedule Your Next Appointment with Dr. Gore today!

If you have concerns and questions regarding breast cancer, schedule your appointment with Dr. Gore by contacting North Atlanta Breast Care.

 

Disclaimer: This article is not a substitution for seeking medical attention.

Ryland Gore