In news that sounds more like something from an automotive, or white goods recall, French authorities have announced that a certain type of silicone breast implant can rupture and might cause cancer. The French authorities are in the process of deciding whether to issue a “recall” and recommend up to 30,000 French women have their implants changed or removed.
Meanwhile in the UK, The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has advised that there is not enough evidence to warrant removal. Dr Susanne Ludgate, the medical director at the MHRA, explained that they have looked at the issue extensively, including the toxicity of the filler. She stated that they have looked at any association with cancer and can find no link, and they have also looked at safety issues of women breast feeding with the implants.
“We would really advise women in this country (The UK) not to panic … In terms of cancer we have to keep on looking at the evidence and ensuring that we keep on looking at it, rather than taking a snapshot at one point in time.” The French health authorities will release their judgment on the issue on Friday 23rd December 2011, but their final take on the matter is not clear. The product causing the uproar, is known as Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP) Breast Implants. They have been associated with an anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). It’s a rare form of cancer that affects the cells of the immune system.
The implants were manufactured by a French company that is now closed down. As many as 300,000 implants have been used to enhance or replace lost breast tissue and were sold worldwide before PIP went into administration in 2010, and use of their product was halted. The French have cited 8 cases of cancer to date, in contrast to the British advice, that the implants do not appear associated with cancer. Read Entire Article from Medical News Today.
Silicone-gel filled implants: Made of a similar silicone based shell but pre-filled with silicone gel. The same two companies, Mentor and Allergan make them. They were approved in November, 2006.
If you are considering breast implants it is a good idea to make an appointment to learn about all options available. This knowledge will enable you to make the best choice for your body. Dr. Cicilioni is very thorough in explaining all options available for those looking for breast enhancement. We look forward to seeing you this year as you ponder your cosmetic surgery options. A more beautiful you awaits …. Hurry Back …The staff at Orlando Cosmetic Surgery, LLC.
