Common breast implant linked to rare cancer

A popular breast implant, used by surgeons across Australia, has been linked to a rare cancer.

Macquarie University’s Australian School of Advanced Medicine has released a new study, which shows an infection on the surface of textured breast implants may increase a woman’s risk of developing the newly-designated “Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma” or BIA-ALCL.

Bacteria growing on the implant can cause capsular contracture – the hardening of the surrounding tissue.

This can become infected, prompting white blood cells to mutate and attack the body.

To date, 170 cases of BIA-ALCL have been diagnosed worldwide.

Prior to undergoing breast augmentation, women must choose between smooth or textured implants.

Most opt for the textured variety because they attach to the surrounding tissue and are less likely to move around inside the body.

However, textured implants have been shown to accommodate more bacteria growth than the smooth option.

A previous study, also by Macquarie University has found within 24-hours of being exposed to bacteria, 72 times more bacteria will be attached to a textured implant than the smooth one.

Professor Anand Deva, who led both studies, has published a 14-point guide for surgeons to help reduce the risk of infection. In the past year alone, these principles have cut the incidence by a factor of ten. 

Have you been diagnosed with Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma? Tell us your story either by commenting below or emailing onlinenews@nine.com.au