Breast implants face ban over cancer fears

An Australian ban on a range of breast implants has been recommended after apparent links to rare forms of cancer.

Breast implant-associated lymphoma is usually cured if detected early. Picture: iStock

An Australian ban on a range of textured breast implants has been recommended after a review of apparent links to rare forms of cancer.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration’s proposed regulatory action — which could include cancelling, suspending or recalling implants — follows an extensive review of an apparent association between anaplastic large cell lymphoma and some implants.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the government supported the TGA’s proposed action.

France and Canada acted in April to remove certain textured implants from their markets.

As of April, the TGA had received 76 reports of anaplastic large cell lymphoma associated with breast implants in Australian women.

The estimated risk of breast implant-associated lymphoma is between one-in-1000 and one-in-10,000.

Experts do not recommend removal of breast implants where there are no problems with the implant.

Breast implant-associated lymphoma is usually cured if detected early. The TGA has published information on the proposed action, including information on the specific textured implants, on its website.

Allergan Australia said it was reviewing the TGA action in relation to its Natrelle Biocell textured breast implants and tissue expanders. “Allergan continues to stand behind the benefit/risk profile of its breast implants” including its Biocell products, the company said yesterday.

The company said there was no recommendation from any health authority, including the TGA, for patients with no symptoms to have their textured breast implants removed or replaced.

Australia’s peak body for cosmetic surgeons says there’s no cause for alarm for people who have the textured breast implants, and to consider all evidence before taking action.

The Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery said the risk of developing a cancer that spreads was extremely low. “If patients do not have any symptoms, there is no need for any action,” it said.

AAP