Q&A: Ask The Doctor

Q: My sister had breast cancer and is about to have a mastectomy. She is confused about which implant is safest: saline, silicone, or her own fat.

A: Hello! Thanks for reaching out to us through our website chat. Here is information on which implants were taken off of the market last year and the reasons why.

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/fda-requests-allergan-voluntarily-recall-natrelle-biocell-textured-breast-implants-and-tissue#:~:text=Allergan%20agreed%20and%20is%20removing%20these%20products%20from%20the%20global%20market.&text=Allergan%20has%20notified%20the%20FDA,surface%20used%20only%20by%20Allergan

The risk with any implant reconstruction includes capsular contracture and implant failure. A capsule is the formation of a shell of scar around an implant – the body’s natural response to a foreign object. The problem arises when the scar gets very thick, squeezes the implant, causes pain, and disfigures the implant reconstruction. Statistics indicate there is a likelihood that implant reconstructions may eventually need to be

revised. The FDA provides this guidance on their website “Breast implants are not lifetime devices… (read more below)

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/things-consider-getting-breast-implants

Our practice specializes in reconstruction without artificial implants. It’s a permanent solution and works well for most women who are good candidates for the surgery. We’re happy to answer questions about that method if you would like.

You’re a good sister for reaching out to get info! Have a great day.

Gail Lanter, CPC