To My Patients, Regarding The Allergan Implant Recall

Many of you are aware of the recent action by Allergan that removed their textured breast implants and tissue expanders from the U.S. market because of their association (1 in 3,200 implants) with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) of the scar tissue surrounding the implant. For further information, I recommend that you visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.

There are several facts to keep in mind:

• In my practice, I overwhelmingly use Mentor implants of the smooth type. Smooth implants are not associated with ALCL. So, for the vast majority of my patients, this recall has nothing to do with their implants.
• Some patients had implants placed years ago and are not sure what type they are. Please check the implant card given to you at the time of surgery for that information. If that is not available, an ultrasound of the breast will show if the implants are textured. If they’re not textured, ALCL is not a concern.
• Finally, even if you have textured Allergan implants but no signs or symptoms of ALCL such as swelling of the breast or a breast or underarm mass, it’s recommended that your implants not be removed.

Please contact our office for further information.

With Best Wishes,
George Sanders, M.D.