Introduction: The Allergan Textured Implant Recall
In 2019, Allergan voluntarily recalled its Biocell textured breast implants and tissue expanders after they were linked to a rare cancer known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
Although the condition is rare, the recall caused many women to ask:
- “Do I need to have my recalled implants removed?”
- “Is implant exchange covered by insurance?”
- “What are my options for safe reconstruction?”
At Jandali Plastic Surgery in Trumbull, CT, we help women across Fairfield County and Southern Connecticut safely exchange recalled Allergan textured implants for smooth implants — a procedure that is always covered by insurance.
Why Were Allergan Implants Recalled?
- Biocell textured implants were found to have a higher risk of BIA-ALCL compared to smooth implants.
- BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer, but a lymphoma that develops in scar tissue around the implant.
- While rare, it is serious — and removing/replacing textured implants significantly lowers risk.
The FDA and Allergan recommended that women without symptoms do not need automatic removal, but exchange is a safe and reasonable option for peace of mind — and insurance covers it.
Symptoms of BIA-ALCL
Women with Allergan textured implants should watch for:
- Swelling of the breast
- Fluid buildup (seroma)
- Pain, lumps, or masses around the implant
- Breast asymmetry
If symptoms occur, prompt evaluation is necessary.
Why Exchange Implants?
Even if you have no symptoms, many women choose implant exchange because:
- They want peace of mind by removing recalled devices.
- Insurance covers the surgery, making it accessible.
- They want to upgrade to smooth implants that are safer and more natural-feeling.
- Revision surgery allows for fat grafting to improve contour and softness.
The Implant Exchange Procedure
At Jandali Plastic Surgery, implant exchange is typically performed as follows:
- Remove Allergan textured implants and surrounding capsule if needed.
- Replace with smooth implants (can also use a patient’s own tissue and replace with DIEP flaps and completely avoid implants)
- Perform fat grafting to improve softness and reduce visible rippling.
- Revise the implant pocket if necessary for better symmetry.
Recovery is usually faster than the original surgery, with most women resuming light activity in 1–2 weeks.
Insurance Coverage
Implant exchange for recalled Allergan textured implants is always covered by insurance.
Coverage applies whether:
- You have symptoms or not
- You want peace of mind from the recall
- You are many years out from your original surgery
This is protected under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA).
Benefits of Smooth Implants
Switching from textured to smooth implants offers:
- No recall risk — smooth implants are not linked to BIA-ALCL
- Softer, more natural feel
- Fewer complications
- Peace of mind knowing recalled devices are gone
My Credentials & Experience
I’m Dr. Shareef Jandali, a board-certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience. The majority of my practice is breast reconstruction and implant revision surgery. I have helped numerous women in Fairfield County safely exchange recalled Allergan implants for smooth ones.
Common Questions About Allergan Implant Exchange
Do I need my implants removed if I have no symptoms?
It’s not required, but many women choose exchange for peace of mind. Insurance covers it either way.
How do I know if I have Allergan textured implants?
We review your implant records and operative reports to confirm.
Can I switch to smooth implants?
Yes — smooth implants are the safest and most common choice today.
Will insurance cover the procedure?
Yes — all reconstruction and implant revision procedures are covered.
Is recovery long?
Most women return to normal activity within 1–2 weeks and exercise within 6 weeks.
Can I combine with other improvements?
Yes — fat grafting, symmetry procedures, or nipple repositioning can be done at the same time.
Patient Testimonial
“I found out my Allergan implants were recalled and was so anxious. Dr. Jandali explained my options and helped me switch to smooth implants. Insurance covered everything, and now I feel safer and happier with my results.”
— M.C., Milford, CT
Serving Southern Connecticut
We proudly serve women seeking implant exchange from:
Trumbull, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, Shelton, Norwalk, Westport, Weston, Wilton, Easton, Monroe, Oxford, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Newtown, Bethel, and Southbury.
Why Choose Jandali Plastic Surgery
- Board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive breast reconstruction experience and over 150 breast reconstructions performed yearly
- 15 years in practice, majority dedicated to breast reconstruction and revisions
- Insurance experts — our team helps patients navigate approvals and preauthorization
- Personalized care — every patient receives a tailored surgical plan
Related Articles in the Breast Reconstruction Blog Series
- Prepectoral Tissue Expander and Implant Reconstruction
- Implant Exchange for Recalled Allergan Textured Implants
- Implant Exchange for Animation Deformity
- Delayed Reconstruction & Revision for Capsular Contracture, Asymmetry, or Poor Results
- Delayed Reconstruction After Lumpectomy & Radiation
- Oncoplastic Reconstruction at Time of Lumpectomy
- Free Nipple Grafts in Implant Reconstruction
- Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction with Free Nipple Grafts
- DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
- Renuva Adipose Matrix for Reconstruction
Call to Action
If you have Allergan textured implants and are considering removal or exchange, schedule a consultation at Jandali Plastic Surgery to learn about your insurance-covered options.
Jandali Plastic Surgery
5520 Park Ave, Suite WP-2-300, Trumbull, CT 06611
203-374-0310
