On July 24th 2019, Allergan announced that it was recalling its Biocell textured breast implants and tissue expanders.

Biocell textured saline-filled and silicone-filled textured implants and tissue expanders will no longer be distributed or sold in any market where they are currently available.

Allergan had already voluntarily stopped the distribution of these implants in Europe, including UK, about 3 months ago

This follows the concerns about Breast Implant Associated – Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The current data collected on this group of patients showed higher numbers of women with the deeper(macro) type of texturing associated with the Allergan implants. It is important to note that the data collection is incomplete, BIA-ALCL were found with all kinds surfaces including smooth and the Allergan textured implants were the commonest implants used world wide. There is no conclusive clinical evidence that one type of surface is any riskier than another.

As such the international governing bodies are unanimous in their advise to women who have these implants but no symptoms. They do not need to have them removed. Common symptoms that should prompt further investigation include breast enlargement, pain, asymmetry, lump in the breast or armpit, overlying skin rash, hardening of the breast or a large fluid collection typically developing after receiving an implant and, on average, after 8 to 10 years.