BAPRAS issues statement on textured shell breast implants

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) has responded to claims of increased Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) risk from textured shell breast implants. BAPRAS president Graeme Perks said: “The most recent clinical studies state that it is not possible to confirm with any certainty whether breast implants have any relation to an increased likelihood of developing ALCL, and particularly whether any one type of implant can create a higher or lower risk than another of developing the disease. “A recent popular media piece on the subject suggested a potentially more widespread causal link with certain textured shell implants; however, the article quoted un-referenced work which may not have been peer-reviewed. This is sadly an example that information without perspective has the potential to lead to unnecessary anxiety among patients. “This speculation, ironically on the day that the International Collaboration on Breast Registry Activities (ICOBRA) – to which BAPRAS and the UK Department of Health are memorandum of understanding (MoU) signatories – was meeting in Singapore, is further evidence of the need for a breast implant registry. “Until any further evidence is presented, BAPRAS maintains there is no need to remove these implants as a matter of course. We continue to advise that any women with breast implants who experience any sudden unexplained changes or swelling should speak to their GP or their surgeon.