As an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, Dr. David Cangello places a high priority on the safety and well-being of his patients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently requested a recall of certain breast implants. The implants affected in the recall are all textured implants, which comprise a small percentage of the implants used in the U.S. Breast implants with smooth outer shells are not included in the recall. The breast implants that the FDA is recommending no longer be used are:
- Natrelle Saline-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle Silicone-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle Inspira Silicone-Filled breast implants
- Natrelle 410 Highly Cohesive Anatomically Shaped Silicone-Filled breast implants
Dr. Cangello is in full compliance with this recall and here to provide information for patients who may have concerns.
Why Are These Breast Implants Recalled?
The voluntary recall on certain textured breast implants occurs in light of an FDA investigation of a disease called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). BIA-ALCL is a non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, not breast cancer, and it is very treatable with early detection. The current data on BIA-ALCL indicates that it is very rare and is linked almost exclusively to textured implants.
You can read the full FDA statement here.
What Should I Do if I Have These Implants?
We understand that this news can be alarming for women who have had breast augmentation. Please keep in mind that this recall has been put in place for your safety, but that the risks associated with breast implants are extremely low. The FDA is not recommending that patients with the affected implants have them removed unless they are experiencing symptoms such as breast pain, tenderness, lumps, or persistent swelling. All patients should closely monitor their breast health, get regular check-ups, and contact their doctor immediately if they notice any changes. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions about the recall on Allergan textured breast implants.
