Are Breast Implants Safe? The 411 on the Natrelle Implant Recall

In August 2019, the FDA recalled Allergan’s BIOCELL textured breast implants, citing growing evidence of a causal relationship between these breast implants and the increased risk for developing anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This recall set off a flurry of worry around these specific implants, but also breast implants in general.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Vitolo is here to answer all of your most pressing questions. Check out our patients’ three most popular questions around Allergen’s implant recall, as well as overall concerns around the safety of breast implants and breast augmentation surgery.

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Contents

What’s Up with that Breast Implant Recall?

The FDA’s recall centers on a very specific type of implant: Allergan’s BIOCELL textured breast implants. According to an FDA press release, the reason for the recall is an alarming one:

“The FDA’s analysis was attributed to a new worldwide reported total of 573 unique BIA-ALCL cases including 33 patient deaths. Of the 573 cases of BIA-ALCL, 481 are reported to have Allergan breast implants at the time of diagnosis.”

So far, this specific implant product is the only one that demonstrates such an increased risk for BIA-ALCL.

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Should I Be Worried?

Patients who currently have these specific breast implants should immediately schedule an appointment with Dr. Vitolo to discuss breast revision surgery. Dr. Vitolo can remove the at-risk implants and replace them with a safer option.

If you have another type of breast implant, rest easy: there’s no recall you need to worry about.

Can I Still Get Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Yes, you can still get breast augmentation surgery. This cosmetic procedure is incredibly safe, with high patient satisfaction rates. Dr. Vitolo will work closely with you to help you pick the right implants that not only help you achieve your desired results, but also protect your long-term health and well-being.

I am very satisfied with the experience that I had with Dr. Vitolo and his staff, as well as my breast augmentation results. From the moment I met with Dr. Vitolo, I felt at ease. Initially I wanted my breast augmentation done a specific way, and he was honest about my expectations and showed me how he would do the surgery and what outcome I should expect. He was very polite, the facility is immaculate, his staff was exceptional throughout the entire process, and as someone who works in the medical field, I feel that their bedside manner was fantastic. Dr. Vitolo also was my family members surgeon, and when she was not completely satisfied with her outcome, he offered to re-do the entire surgery free of charge. I highly recommend Dr. Vitolo and feel confident that you will be just as pleased as I am.

JC, Happy Patient

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Take the Next Step

Still concerned about the safety of breast implants or breast augmentation surgery? Schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Vitoloat his plastic surgery practice by filling out the consultation form on this page or by calling (718) 619-8869.

Dr. Vitolo serves the greater New York Metropolitan area including Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and New Jersey.