The Therapeutic Goods Administration removed the Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants and tissue expanders from the Australian market after a review found the devices have a small risk of causing Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
Internationally, a number of women with textured Allergan BIOCELL breast implants have been diagnosed with the rarely occurring BIA-ALCL. The main symptoms of BIA-ALCL include swelling in the breast, and less commonly, lump formation in the breast or armpit.
All women with Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants are advised to be aware of BIAALCL symptoms and to perform regular breast self-examinations. Women are advised to consult their doctor if symptoms develop, if any changes are noticed on self-examination, or if they have any concerns. Post-operative breast swelling is expected after breast implant surgery. Surgeons will advise patients how long post-operative swelling should be expected based on individual patient assessment.