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Textured Allergan breast implants linked to rare cancer are recalled

Breast implants maker Allergan announced a voluntary worldwide recall of BIOCELL® textured breast implants and tissue expanders.

In May, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced it had completed a review and laboratory assessment of textured breast implants on the Australian market. TGA proposed regulatory action in relation to a number of textured implants and tissue expanders that are associated with Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare type of lymphoma that can develop around breast implants. Allergan announced its recall following a similar statement from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued this week.

Neither the TGA nor FDA recommend removal of the breast implants where there are no problems with it. Women who have textured breast implants are advised to speak with their breast or plastic surgeon about the implications for them. If you're not sure if you have textured or smooth implants, contact your surgeon. If you notice any changes around your implant, such as swelling or a lump, notify your doctor.