It was a rainy Saturday evening when Mrs Padmalatha , a 52-year-old entrepreneur, walked into my clinic. She looked perfectly healthy, but her voice trembled slightly.
“Doctor,” she said, “I got breast implants 14 years ago. I keep reading all these things online. can they cause cancer?”
It’s a question I hear more often now. With social media flooded with health warnings, influencer stories, and clickbait headlines, women are understandably anxious. Silicone implants, implant illness, cancer risks , there’s so much information, and not all of it is accurate.
So let’s talk about it. Honestly, as a plastic surgeon who’s worked with women from all walks of life, I’ve seen how transformative implants can be both physically and emotionally. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t talk openly about risks, especially when cancer is mentioned.
First, here’s the reassurance: standard silicone breast implants do not cause breast cancer. This has been backed by decades of research. Major health bodies like the FDA and WHO have found no solid evidence that implants increase the risk of common types of breast cancer, like ductal or lobular carcinoma. Whether you have implants or not, your baseline breast cancer risk remains the same.
So, why the concern?
There is, in fact, a rare type of cancer that has been associated with breast implants , but it’s not breast cancer. It’s called BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). And yes, I know , anything with “cancer” in the name is enough to raise alarm.
But here’s what’s important to know.
- BIA-ALCL is not a cancer of breast tissue. It’s a type of lymphoma , cancer of the immune system.
- It forms in the scar tissue or fluid around the implant, not the breast itself.
- It has been mainly associated with textured implants, which have a rough surface.
- The risk is very low, somewhere between 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 30,000 depending on the type and brand of implant.
Thankfully, when caught early, it’s highly treatable, often by just removing the implant and surrounding capsule. In fact, many countries have now moved away from using textured implants altogether, precisely to reduce this risk.
Most women never experience any issues. But if you have implants (especially textured ones) and you suddenly notice swelling, fluid buildup, hardening, or a change in shape , especially several years after surgery, it’s worth getting it checked. These symptoms don’t automatically mean cancer, but they do deserve a proper evaluation.
Another question I often get is about older implants. Women who had their procedures 12, 15, even 20 years ago come in wondering if they should be worried. The short answer? Not necessarily , but you should be watchful.
Implants aren’t lifetime devices. Over time, the outer shell can degrade.
In older-generation implants, a small amount of silicone might leak out, a phenomenon called “gel bleed.” While this doesn’t cause cancer, it can lead to issues like:
- Capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue)
- Local inflammation or pain
- Implant rupture
That’s why I usually recommend a routine check-up every few years after breast augmentation or reconstruction. An MRI or high-resolution ultrasound after 10 years is ideal. Around the 15-year mark, even if you don’t have symptoms, it might be a good idea to talk about replacing or removing the implants , just as preventive care.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Social media !!!
You’ve probably seen the stories “Implants ruined my health,” “Doctors don’t tell you the truth,” or “Silicone causes cancer.” I understand how scary it can be. The problem is, while some of these experiences are valid, many are exaggerated or misinterpreted. Unfortunately, fear tends to go viral faster than facts.
As a surgeon, I don’t believe in sugar-coating. Yes, implants have risks. But they are well-documented, and when patients are informed, monitored, and supported , they do extremely well. Every medical device comes with risks, whether it’s a pacemaker, an artificial joint, or breast implants. The key lies in choosing the right patient, the right procedure, and the right follow-up.
For women considering implants today, we have more choices than ever. Smooth implants are now the preferred option. Some patients even choose fat transfer for a more natural, less invasive approach. We personalise every plan , not just based on aesthetics, but on long-term safety and lifestyle.
Coming back to Mrs Padmalatha , after a clinical exam and ultrasound, we found no issues. Her implants were intact, and there was no fluid collection or signs of BIA-ALCL. But since it had been 14 years, I suggested a detailed scan and told her we could consider removal or replacement within the next couple of years. She left relieved, informed, and in control of her choices.
And that’s what every woman deserves , clarity, not fear!. If you already have implants and feel fine, great. Stay aware. Get your check-ups and trust your body. If something feels off, speak up. If you’re planning to get implants, ask questions. Choose only a board-certified plastic surgeon. Understand the types, the maintenance involved, and what to expect over the years. And if your implants are more than 10–15 years old, consider a review , not because cancer is likely, but because your health evolves, and your choices should too.
So, can breast implants cause cancer?
The truth is , rarely, and only under very specific conditions.
But perhaps the more important question is this: Are you informed, empowered, and cared for in your journey?
Because behind every implant lies not just silicone and scar tissue, but stories of courage, reclaiming confidence, of healing from loss, of choosing one’s reflection with pride.
And every story deserves light, not shadow!
In a world echoing with noise, may your choices be guided by knowledge, not fear. May your body be honoured, not doubted. And may every woman, whether she chooses implants or not, feel seen, safe, and sovereign in her own skin !!!
Dr. S.V. Kinnera Reddy
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon ,
Star Hospital, Financial district, Hyderabad.
Disclaimer : The opinions here are personal views of the authors. IAAPS is not responsible. All members may not have the same scientific view point
