Updated safety review of breast implants underscores the continuing importance of monitoring for cancer; increased risk with highly textured (macro-textured) implants
Standard priority
What you should do
- 1If you have an Allergan Biocell breast implant or another type of breast implant:Removing your breast implants is not recommended if you do not have any signs or symptoms suggesting BIA-ALCL.
- 2Discuss the risks and benefits of removal with your healthcare professional, keeping in mind that:BIA-ALCL is usually slow-growing and, when diagnosed at early stages, is highly treatableThere are risks associated with surgery to remove or replace breast implantsRemoval of the breast implants may not eliminate the risk of BIA-ALCLSpeak with the healthcare provider who did your surgery if you don't know what type of breast implant you have.
- 3Conduct regular breast self-exams and see your healthcare professional for periodic follow-ups.
- 4If you experience unusual changes in your breasts, including breast pain, sudden swelling, or a lump, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
- 5Find information on the risks associated with breast implants, including the risk of BIA-ALCL, by visiting the breast implant section on Canada.ca, and subscribe to receive email updates from Health Canada on breast implants.
The issue
New safety information
Affected product
Breast implants
Where it was sold
Canada (national)Reported in the official notice — confirm there.
Issued by
Health Canada
Read the official Government of Canada notice
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