Mr Alan Park’s statement on recent breast implant news
Recently, breast implant safety has been the focus of much media attention, particularly the link between textured implants and a rare form of cancer known as Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
BIA-ALCL is a very rare and eminently treatable form of lymphatic cancer and over recent years there has been a link made between breast implants that have a textured surface and the development of ALCL. Textured implants have been a popular choice for breast augmentation surgery as they seem to have a lower risk of capsular contracture whereby a capsule forms around the implant and hardens and shrinks.
Not all textured implants are manufactured in the same way and different implant brands have different levels of risk. Recently, Allergan’s Natrelle implants were withdrawn from the market when their CE mark was not re-awarded due to concerns over their particular type of surface material. This is a temporary measure while more testing takes place into the safety of the Biocell textured surface.
It is important to bear in mind that breast implants are one of the most used medical devices in the world and subject to much clinical testing for safety. In light of the PIP implant scandal, there has been a tightening of regulations which is why the Allergan implants have been withdrawn until further testing takes place.
Mr Park uses only Nagor implants which are microtextured so have a much lower risk of ALCL. GC Aesthetics, the manufacturer of Nagor implants, recently sent Mr Park their figures and there have been 17 cases of ALCL in 3 million implants which is extremely rare.
His current advice to breast augmentation patients is not to be worried unduly, but be aware of any changes to your breasts and to contact his Warwickshire cosmetic surgery clinic instantly if you have any concerns.
