Allergan Breast Implant Lawsuits
Allergan's textured breast implants have been linked to a rare and deadly cancer. The FDA recalled the devices in 2019 — but thousands of women were never told about the risk.
The Allergan Breast Implant Recall
In July 2019, the FDA requested that Allergan — a subsidiary of AbbVie — recall its BIOCELL textured breast implants and tissue expanders after the agency concluded they were associated with a significantly higher risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) compared to other implant types. Allergan agreed to the recall, which covered both saline and silicone-filled BIOCELL devices sold under the Natrelle brand.
BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer — it is a cancer of the immune system that develops in the scar tissue and fluid surrounding the implant. While it is considered rare, the FDA's data showed that Allergan's textured implants accounted for the vast majority of BIA-ALCL cases worldwide. Lawsuits allege that Allergan knew about the elevated cancer risk for years before the recall and failed to adequately warn patients and surgeons.
Filing Period Closed
The courts have closed the general filing period for this litigation. We are no longer accepting new clients for Allergan breast implant claims. If you have a question about an existing matter, please contact our office.
What Is BIA-ALCL?
Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma — a cancer of the immune system — that arises in the fluid or scar tissue capsule surrounding a breast implant. It is distinct from breast cancer and does not originate in breast tissue itself. Most cases are diagnosed when a woman notices a sudden swelling or fluid accumulation around the implant, often years after the original surgery.
When caught early and confined to the capsule, BIA-ALCL is often treatable with surgical removal of the implant and surrounding capsule. However, in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the capsule to surrounding tissue or lymph nodes, more aggressive treatment — including chemotherapy and radiation — is required, and outcomes are significantly worse. A number of deaths have been reported.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Sudden Breast Swelling
The most common presenting symptom: a rapid and unexplained increase in breast size due to fluid accumulating around the implant, often occurring years after the original surgery.
Persistent Fluid Around the Implant
A seroma — a collection of fluid in the space around the implant — that develops late (more than one year after surgery) and recurs after drainage is a key warning sign of BIA-ALCL.
Breast Pain or Hardness
Unexplained pain, firmness, or a change in the shape or feel of the breast may indicate capsular contracture or, in some cases, BIA-ALCL developing in the surrounding tissue.
Lumps Near the Implant
A palpable lump in the breast or armpit — particularly one that develops years after implant surgery — should be evaluated promptly, as it may represent lymphoma involvement.
Skin Rash or Redness
Some women with BIA-ALCL develop a rash or redness over the breast that does not resolve with standard treatment, reflecting immune system involvement.
Fatigue and Systemic Symptoms
In more advanced cases, BIA-ALCL may cause systemic symptoms including fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and night sweats — symptoms common to lymphomas generally.
Who May Have a Claim?
You may qualify for a claim if you received Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants or tissue expanders — sold under the Natrelle brand — and have been diagnosed with BIA-ALCL or have experienced symptoms consistent with the condition. Claims may also be available to women who required surgery to remove recalled implants even if they have not yet been diagnosed with cancer.
Lawsuits have been filed against Allergan and its parent company AbbVie, alleging they concealed the elevated cancer risk from patients and the medical community for years. Our attorneys are actively investigating claims and can advise you on your eligibility and the deadlines that apply in your state. If you have Allergan BIOCELL implants and have not yet had them evaluated, we strongly encourage you to consult with your physician.