Breast implants are widely used both cosmetically and as a tool in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy. For women who have undergone the trauma of mastectomy, breast reconstruction surgery can help survivors feel more comfortable with their appearance, and around 60% of breast cancer survivors opt for breast implants. These implants, like any other medical procedure, carry risks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has concluded that breast implants increase the risk of breast implant illness and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). BIA-ALCL is rare, with cases reported from one in 1,000 to one in 30,000. This type of lymphoma is not breast cancer, but is a cancer of the immune system, and is usually located in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The risk is greater among women who received textured implants.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with this rare type of lymphoma after receiving breast implants or are concerned with the materials used in your procedure, we urge you to contact the Harman Law Firm to discuss your case. We work diligently to protect our clients from the damage of defective implants.

Allergan Breast Implant Recall 2019

In July 2019, the FDA issued a recall on textured breast implants manufactured by Allergan under the BIOCELL label. The FDA discovered these implants to be responsible for the vast majority of breast cancer cases related to implants, which utilize a textured surface that is unique to their manufacturing. At the time of the recall request, there were 573 cases of this type of lymphoma reported and 33 deaths. Allergan manufactured the implants used in 481 of those cases. The FDA further directed health care providers to stop using Allergan BIOCELL implants immediately.

For patients who are experiencing the symptoms of BIA-ALCL, the FDA recommends patients see their health care provider for evaluation and possible removal of the implants, including the surrounding scar tissue. The FDA also directs health care providers to inform patients with Allergan implants of the increased risk of developing BIA-ALCL.

Breast Implant Cancer Signs and Symptoms

If you have received this type of implant, please be aware of the symptoms related to BIA-ALCL:

• Redness around the implant area
• Swollen breasts
• Lumps located in the breast or armpit
• Differences in the size of the breast, or any changes in appearance
• Abnormal skin rash
• Hardening of the breast around the implant
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fluid around the implant

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms after receiving an Allergan BIOCELL breast implant, please contact your health care provider for a thorough examination as soon as possible. This type of lymphoma can be treated and has a success rate of 93%, but only if it is detected early. The treatment consists of removing the defective implant and the surrounding scar tissue.

The Harman Law Firm is fierce when it comes to protecting clients against faulty medical devices, and we will fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve. Patients trust the professionals who develop medical devices, expecting that the equipment will be safe. If you or a family member have been diagnosed with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma from Allergan BIOCELL textured implants, and have suffered injury or death as a result, contact the Harman Law Firm today.

We will explain your options to you and be with you every step of the way to fight for justice. Without adequate representation, the manufacturer of this defective device may not award you with the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, your lost wages or your mental suffering. You deserve peace of mind knowing that you have a team in your corner who will face the battle with you.