Breast Implants and Cancer: What Patients Should Know

May 22, 2025 / Editor

Breast Implants and Cancer: What Patients Should Know

For individuals considering breast implants or those who already have them, it is essential to understand the potential health risks, including the rare but serious cancer known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This blog provides a comprehensive overview of the link between breast implants and cancer, identifies possible signs, and provides information on what patients can do to protect themselves.

Breast Implants and BIA-ALCL

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified a connection between breast implants and the development of BIA-ALCL, a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is critical to clarify that this condition is not breast cancer but rather a cancer of the immune system that typically arises in the scar tissue or fluid surrounding the implant. It can sometimes show up years after the initial implant procedure.

Despite being uncommon, this condition emphasizes how crucial patient education and regular post-breast implant care are.

Implant Surface Texture's

The exterior shells of breast implants can be smooth or textured. Studies have repeatedly demonstrated that people with textured implants are more likely to experience BIA-ALCL than people with smooth surfaces. Research on the causes of this elevated risk is ongoing. Still, the correlation is strong enough that many medical professionals approach textured implants more cautiously.

Other Reported Health Concerns

Over the years, some individuals with breast implants have reported additional health concerns, including:

Autoimmune conditions (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis),
Breastfeeding difficulties and
Reproductive challenges.

Nevertheless, there is currently insufficient evidence to draw firm conclusions, and there is no proof that breast implants cause cancer. Patients should, however, notify their healthcare practitioner right once of any strange symptoms or changes in their health so that they can be examined.

Breast Implants Are Not Lifetime

One of the most essential facts to understand about breast implants is that they are not designed to last a lifetime. Over time, implants may develop complications, and the likelihood of requiring additional surgeries increases the longer the implants are in place.

These additional surgeries may be performed for various reasons, such as addressing complications like implant rupture, capsular contracture, or infection, or for cosmetic reasons, such as adjusting the shape or size of the breasts. While some individuals may have implants for many years without issue, others may require corrective procedures sooner than expected.

Recognizing the Symptoms of BIA-ALCL

BIA-ALCL may develop at any time following breast implant surgery, often taking several years to present symptoms. These symptoms are frequently non-specific, meaning they could also result from more common conditions such as infection or trauma.

Common symptoms of BIA-ALCL include:

Unexplained Breast Swelling: Particularly if it occurs years after surgery.
Breast Pain: Persistent breast, chest, or underarm discomfort.
Lumps or Masses: Firm, immobile lumps near the implant.
Changes in Breast Appearance, Including asymmetry or shifts in shape.
Fluid Accumulation: Also known as seroma, this is a buildup of fluid around the implant.
Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Especially in the armpit or neck regions.

If a patient presents with these symptoms, a physician may recommend imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI. A fine needle aspiration may be used to collect a sample if fluid is detected. In cases where a mass is present, a biopsy may be required. The collected tissue or fluid samples will be sent to a pathology lab for diagnostic confirmation.

Monitoring Health with Breast Implants

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recommends routine monitoring. NSW Health recommends patients with breast implants should see their GP or surgeon every 12 months for a clinical review, regardless of whether they have noticed breast changes during this time or the implant type. Also, healthcare providers discuss the risk of BIA-ALCL with all patients considering or currently living with breast implants.

This should include a clear explanation of the benefits and risks of different implant types, educational materials to review at their own pace, and an open opportunity to ask questions and make decisions in collaboration with their healthcare provider.

Also, the TGA encourages routine health monitoring for patients with implants. This includes annual clinical reviews by a general practitioner or plastic surgeon, regardless of whether symptoms or the implant type are apparent. These check-ups frequently involve a discussion of any new symptoms and a physical examination of the breasts, implants, and surrounding areas (such as the armpits). Additional imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI scans, may be recommended in some cases. These follow-ups are crucial in early detection and prompt treatment, if necessary.

Conclusion

Choosing to undergo breast implant surgery is a deeply personal decision, and being fully informed about the associated health risks, including the rare risk of BIA-ALCL, is a critical part of the decision-making process. If you currently have implants, staying informed, attending regular medical check-ups, and communicating openly with your healthcare provider can significantly improve your long-term well-being.

You can take proactive measures to protect your health while making decisions that suit your requirements and objectives by collaborating with your physician and adhering to regular monitoring.