In the last few days, I have heard from a few of my patients who read a recent article in The New York Times stating that breast implants made by Allergan that have a textured or slightly roughened surface, rather than a smooth covering, have been linked to a rare form of cancer called breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma and are being taken off the market in Europe.
There has also been a recent report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons discussing anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. (To read the report, click here.) Naturally, they are concerned.
I only use smooth, not textured, breast implants
To reassure all of my patients with breast implants, as well as those who are considering getting breast implants, I want to state very clearly:
I have always used ONLY smooth implants for my breast augmentation patients, not the textured ones cited in these two sources. The recent concerns do not involve these types of implants and my breast augmentation patients do NOT need to be concerned about this.
I offer three types of breast implants, all of them safe
- Silicone breast implants—filled with silicone gel.
- Saline breast implants—filled with saline (sterile saltwater).
- Natrelle® gummy breast implants—filled with silicone gel. Choose from five profiles (low to extra full), four degrees of fullness (minimal to maximum) and three levels of cohesivity (gumminess).
Most women—and most plastic surgeons, myself included—prefer the look and feel of silicone implants rather than saline. Silicone implants are generally considered to look and feel more like real breast tissue, while saline implants are more prone to cause rippling of the skin. Women are also reporting high satisfaction rates with the new gummy versions because they can choose the size and shape of their implants for a more customized, unique look.
4 highly informative blogs on breast implants
So that you can be fully informed on this important subject, I’ve written several blogs explaining the safety of breast implants:
- Are Breast Implants Safe? Yes And Here’s Why
- When Was The Last Time You Had Your Breast Implants Checked?
- What You Need to Know About Silicone Gel Breast Implants
- Are Breast Implants Right For You?
If you have breast implants, particularly textured ones, you should call your surgeon or go in for an exam
If you have breast implants—saline, silicone, gummy or textured—it’s important to get them checked for ruptures, slippage, leakage, swelling, the previously-mentioned rare cancer or any other potential problems.
For all my patients with implants, I highly recommend getting them checked once a year.
Symptoms of potential problems that you should be aware of include:
- Pain
- Lumps
- swelling
- breast asymmetry
If you are experiencing of these symptoms, consult your surgeon right away. If there are no symptoms, there is no reason to remove the implants.
When I am asked if breast implants are safe, my answer is yes
In over 20 years of performing breast implant surgery in my plastic surgery practice, I have encountered very few complications. In fact, for many women who want larger breasts, or want the size and shape of their breasts to match, or have had a mastectomy and are seeking breast reconstruction, breast implants are a highly satisfying solution. It’s worth noting that according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast implant surgery is the top cosmetic surgery performed
Considering breast implants?
I specialize in the most advanced techniques of breast augmentation surgery and am ready to help you achieve your goals. If you are thinking about having breast implant surgery and would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact me and I will send you additional information prior to your appointment. Then, I will assess the current appearance of your breasts, your reasons for wanting surgery, and your expectations. Then together, we will decide which breast procedure will bring you the results you’re looking for.
Learn more about the many breast procedures I offer
There is lots of information on my website about the many breast procedures available to you so you can be fully informed prior to your decision:
- Breast Procedures
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Breast Reconstruction
- Breast Reduction
- Breast Revision
Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Samuel J. Beran, MD is a highly accomplished plastic surgeon with offices in Manhattan, Harrison and Mount Kisco, NY. With more than 20 years’ experience and a thorough command of the most advanced techniques and technologies, Dr. Beran consistently provides his patients with the highest level of plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, face, skin and body. Recently, Dr. Beran was named a “Top Doctor” by RealSelf for his dedication to responding to consumer questions and patient feedback. The “Top Doctor” designation is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf physician community.
