Do breast implants cause cancer?

In recent days, various publications have highlighted the problem of the occurrence of cancer in connection with the use of breast implants.

What type of disease is involved?

It is not a typical breast cancer, but a special type of lymphoma that develops in the capsule of breast implants. It is a sporadic reaction that is thought to develop as a reaction to a biofilm in the area of the implant surface.

What are the causes?

It is assumed that on the one hand there must be a genetic predisposition, but that the roughness of the implant surface and the surgical method could also play a role in the development of this tumor. For example, surgical methods with access via the armpits are more critical than via the breast crease. The intraoperative technique and sterility (antibiotic shielding, taping, glove changes, etc.) also have an influence.

In the Breast Atelier, we generally do not use the armpit approach and the implant is inserted with the highest safety standards. In addition, we only use high-quality implants.

How great is the risk?

Although this is a malignant disease, we can reassure our patients: The first documented case dates back to 1997. Today, we can say that the risk of this disease is between 1: 8000 and 1:24000 implants, i.e. extremely low.

How is the disease detected?

Typically, the tumor manifests itself in a swelling of the breast, caused by an accumulation of fluid within the capsule. This can also have other causes, but must be clarified by obtaining fluid by puncture and examining it for certain cells and tumor markers. If the diagnosis is confirmed, surgical removal of the implant and capsule is usually sufficient treatment.

We always inform our patients about this risk and tell them at the final check-up that they should contact us immediately if they experience swelling or redness later on. If detected in time, all cases are treatable.

Further information on breast implants:

• Round or teardrop-shaped implants?
• Must breast implants be changed?
• Which breast implants are used at Breast Atelier?
• How are breast implants inserted?

Breast surgery at Breast Atelier: Quality surgery at a transparent fixed price

The Breast Atelier's team of doctors consists of specialists with several years of professional experience who work under the medical supervision of Dr. med. Cédric A. George, the founder of the Pyramid Clinic (today Plastic Surgery Pyramid), which is renowned far beyond the country's borders. His center for plastic surgery, which is now one of the market leaders in Switzerland, has set the standards in terms of quality and reliability in plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.

Under the patronage of the Plastic Surgery Pyramid, these standards are also accessible to a wider audience in the Breast Atelier. Our specialists in plastic surgery are the guarantors of quality surgery.

Book your free consultation appointment

Arrange your free consultation appointment directly online to get all your questions answered and see the Breast Atelier for yourself. Our specialist doctors are at your disposal. Benefit from our 3D visualization technology (for breast augmentation) and our detailed medical assessment.