Dr. Devgan is featured in an article written by Healthline in which she gives her thoughts on the Allergan textured implant recall. “Allergan voluntarily recalled its Biocell textured implants last week after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pushed for the company to take them off the market. The implants have been linked to a rare cancer known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). “
BIA-ALCL is a type of blood cancer that can be found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. “Dr. Lara Devgan, a plastic surgeon in New York City, says the textured material may be the root of the problem. ‘The hypothesis underlying this voluntary recall is that texturing of certain breast implants may result in an inflammatory reaction that is linked to a rare but present risk of ALCL,” Devgan told Healthline.”
Dr. Devgan points out that smooth breast implants are not associated with the BIA-ALCL risk and are considered to be safe and effective devices. “Generally speaking, the most common risks of breast augmentation are bleeding, infection, scarring, and capsular contracture.” Nevertheless, women should become familiar with the symptoms of BIA-ALCL and continue regular health checkups according to their physician’s recommendations.
For Dr. Devgan, this voluntary Allergan recall highlights the fact that the medical aesthetic and plastic surgery industry is far too lax. Patients need to be well informed about the risks and considerations of cosmetic procedures and Dr. Devgan would love to see the industry become better regulated.
