October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Importance of Self-Checks and Implant Safety
At Absolute Cosmetic Medicine, we are committed to supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month by raising awareness about early detection and implant-related conditions. Breast health is essential, and we want to provide information that will help you stay informed and take proactive steps in caring for your body.
The Importance of Breast Self-Checks
With 1 in 7 women affected by breast cancer during their lifetime, early detection is crucial. One of the simplest ways to monitor changes in your breasts is by performing regular self-exams. While ultrasounds and mammograms are essential tools for detection, self-exams can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to spot changes that may need medical attention.
We’ve provided a helpful self-exam guide below, complete with a diagram to walk you through each step. We encourage you to share this information with family and friends—it’s important that everyone is aware of how critical early detection can be.
Understanding BIA-ALCL and Implant Safety
For those who have breast implants, it’s important to be informed about BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma), a rare form of lymphoma linked to certain types of textured implants. Although rare, this condition can be serious, and staying informed about the type of implants you have is vital for your safety.
BIA-ALCL based on Implant Type
A 2021 review of BIA-ALCL cases reported to the TGA indicates the following estimated risk rates:
- Polyurethane-coated implants have an estimated risk of 1 in 1,800. While these implants are no longer listed in the ARTG, some individuals may still possess them.
- Macro-textured implants carry an estimated risk of 1 in 2,400. This type of breast implant is also not included in the ARTG, but it may still be present in some patients.
- Micro-textured implants are estimated to have a risk of 1 in 18,000.
- In Australia, there have been no confirmed cases of BIA-ALCL associated with individuals who have only smooth implants.
Information sourced from the TGA website.
To determine whether your implants may be affected, we recommend checking the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) databases.
Breast Implants at Absolute Cosmetic
At Absolute Cosmetic, patient safety is our priority. We offer a range of high-quality implants, including the German brand POLYTECH. Our options include POLYTECH Smooth, which feature a silicone elastomer shell filled with cohesive silicone gel, and POLYTECH MESMO®, which have a microtextured surface and are also filled with silicone gel, designed to provide a natural shape.
We also offer Motiva implants, which feature a nanotextured surface and are round in shape.
- Currently, there have been no reported cases of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) with POLYTECH Smooth implants.
- POLYTECH MESMO® implants are associated with a lower reported incidence of BIA-ALCL compared to more heavily textured implants.
- Motiva implants, featuring a nanotextured surface, similarly show a lower reported incidence of BIA-ALCL.
This information is based on data from regulatory bodies and published literature, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Reference: Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Breast Implants and Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
Find out the current status of Breast Implant products in Australia.
Complimentary Breast Implant Checks
We are pleased to offer complimentary breast implant checks. During these assessments, you can discuss any concerns you may have, such as malposition, pain or discomfort, capsular contracture, and more. Dr. Murray will also conduct or provide an ultrasound referral to check for any potential ruptures. To schedule your complimentary breast implant check, please call us at 9389 9099 or email us at reception@absolutecosmetic.com.au.
What is Capsular Contracture?
Another important consideration for anyone with breast implants is capsular contracture. This is a condition where the body’s natural response to the implant—forming a capsule of scar tissue—tightens excessively, leading to discomfort, changes in breast appearance, or even pain. About 10% of women with implants experience capsular contracture.
Capsulectomy: Treatment for Capsular Contracture
In severe cases, capsular contracture may require a capsulectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the scar tissue and replace the implant. Capsulectomy can significantly relieve symptoms, but it’s important to note that regular follow-up scans are necessary even after surgery to ensure your long-term health. It is advisable for all patients with these implants—whether they have had them removed or still have them—to undergo an ultrasound every two years, particularly if they have had a capsulectomy. While this procedure can help reduce risks, it does not entirely eliminate the possibility of BIA-ALCL.
There are two main types of capsulectomy:
- Total (Full) Capsulectomy: The entire capsule and implant are removed, often together with the implant.
- Partial (Subtotal) Capsulectomy: Only a portion of the capsule is removed. There are two variations:
- Strip Capsulectomy: Involves removing a specific strip or segment of the capsule.
- Hemi-Capsulectomy: Involves removing approximately half of the capsule.
Take Action This October
Whether you have breast implants or not, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to take charge of your health. Performing self-checks, scheduling regular scans, and being informed about your implants are all steps that can make a difference. We encourage you to visit our blog regularly and share this important information with those around you.
Stay informed. Stay safe.