Allergan Breast Implants Attorneys
The legal landscape around Allergan breast implants has been heating up due to serious health risks tied to its BIOCELL-textured breast implants and expanders. These implants were linked to Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). After growing reports of adverse effects, Allergan voluntarily recalled these products in 2019 at the request of the FDA. Patients affected by these implants have taken legal action to hold the company accountable for the harm caused.
At Farah & Farah, our committed attorneys are ready to stand up for patients who Allergan’s defective breast implants have harmed. If you’ve suffered health complications due to Allergan’s BIOCELL implants, you deserve justice and compensation for your pain. Our experienced legal team will be by your side to guide you through the intricacies of product liability cases. Our attorneys will fight and advocate your voice to get you the answers, support, and financial recovery you deserve. Let us take on the legal fight so you can focus on your health and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Why Have Plaintiffs Filed Allergan Breast Implant Lawsuits?
In July 2019, Allergan received a request from the FDA to recall their BIOCELL textured breast implants and tissue expanders voluntarily. It was found that patients who received these implants were at an increased risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a cancer affecting the immune system. Patients have filed lawsuits against Allergan for failure to warn, negligence in marketing, and distribution of defective BIOCELL implants.
Allergan’s Response to the BIOCELL Recall
Since recalling their BIOCELL-textured breast implants in 2019, Allergan has taken several steps to address the crisis. The company established a BIOCELL replacement warranty program that offers free implant replacements for affected patients. They also set up a medical device monitoring system to track complications more effectively and improved their adverse event reporting processes. Additionally, Allergan created a patient support program to help cover out-of-pocket costs for cancer screening and diagnostic testing related to BIA-ALCL.
History of Allergan Breast Implant Lawsuits
Since the FDA’s initial warning in 2011, patients have been reporting issues linked to textured breast implants. By 2016, studies highlighted the connection between Allergan’s products and BIA-ALCL. In 2019, Allergan finally issued a global recall of its BIOCELL textured implants, but by then, thousands of women had already been affected.
Early Warning Signs (2011)
The FDA first identified a possible link between textured breast implants and BIA-ALCL. During this time, there was an increase of doctors worldwide reporting breast-implanted patients being diagnosed with lymphoma, which led to increased scrutiny of textured implant designs, such as Allergan’s Natrelle BIOCELL implant products.
Growing Concerns (2016-2018)
Medical professionals worldwide began reporting increased cases of BIA-ALCL specifically associated with Allergan BIOCELL implants. By 2018, several countries, including France and Canada, had started taking action to restrict or ban these implants due to safety concerns.
Voluntarily Recall (July 2019)
The FDA requested that Allergan recall all BIOCELL products from the global market. This decision came after worldwide reports confirmed 573 cases of BIA-ALCL and 33 patient deaths, with Allergan implants being involved in a disproportionate number of cases.
Ongoing Legal Actions (2020-Present)
An increased number of claims have been filed against Allergan. The number of lawsuits filed against Allergan led to consolidation into multidistrict litigation (MDL). As of 2024, the number of lawsuits continues to grow as more patients discover their implants may be linked to health issues, and new settlements are being negotiated.
Who Is Allergan?
Allergan is a global pharmaceutical company that was among several major manufacturers of breast implants in the United States. Founded in 1950, the company developed a significant presence in the cosmetic and medical device industries. Their BIOCELL textured breast implants were widely used in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries worldwide until their recall in 2019.
Allergan's Merger With AbbVie
Allergan merged with AbbVie in May 2020 in a $63 billion acquisition. This merger produced one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, combining Allergan’s presence in medical aesthetics with AbbVie’s extensive pharmaceutical portfolio. The acquisition came shortly after the breast implant recall, during a significant change for the company.
Does Allergan Still Manufacture BIOCELL Breast Implants?
While Allergan discontinued their BIOCELL textured breast implants following the 2019 recall, they continue to manufacture and sell other types of breast implants, including smooth surface implants. The company maintains its position in the breast implant market, though with a modified product line that excludes the problematic textured implants linked to BIA-ALCL.
The Link Between Allergan BIOCELL Implants and BIA-ALCL Cancer
Allergan’s BIOCELL textured breast implants have been linked to BIA-ALCL, a rare and serious type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that affects the immune system, developing within the scar tissue and fluid surrounding the implants. Research shows that Allergan BIOCELL implants have a risk of BIA-ALCL that is six times higher than other textured implants.
What Is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. In NHL, lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell that fights infection) grow abnormally and can form tumors in the lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs. Unlike Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which involves a specific type of abnormal cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma includes a broader range of subtypes and lacks this unique cell.
What Is BIA-ALCL?
BIA-ALCL stands for Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, a rare type of lymphoma (a form of cancer). Unlike breast cancer, which originates in breast tissue, BIA-ALCL is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that typically develops in the scar tissue, or capsule, surrounding a breast implant. It is associated more frequently with textured implants rather than smooth ones.
Symptoms of BIA-ALCL
The symptoms of BIA-ALCL typically develop in the tissue surrounding the implant, often years after the implant was placed and can include:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Lumps or masses
- Asymmetry
- Skin rashes
Causes of BIA-ALCL
Although the exact cause of BIA-ALCL isn’t fully understood, it has been linked to textured breast implants, particularly chronic inflammation aroudn the implants, and bacteria on the surface of the implants, as well as a genetic component. Not everyone with textured implants like the Allergan breast implants develops BIA-ALCL, but
Treatment Options for BIA-ALCL
If caught early, it may be possible for BIA-ALCL to be treated, although that’s not the case for everyone. There have been deaths linked to BIA-ALCL from Allergan breast implants. Treatment options can include:
- Surgery to remove the implants
- Surgery to remove the lymph nodes
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
Long-Term Health Risks Linked to Allergan BIOCELL Breast Implants
In addition to the risk of BIA-ALCL, Allergan breast implants may also increase the risk of other health concerns in the long term. These include:
- Chronic inflammation
- Immune system complications
- Need for additional surgeries
- Psychological impacts
- Ongoing medical monitoring requirements
Allergan's Breast Implant Recall
Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its BIOCELL textured breast implants in July 2019 at the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This action was taken due to a significant association between these implants and a rare cancer known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The FDA’s analysis revealed that Allergan’s BIOCELL implants were linked to a higher incidence of BIA-ALCL compared to other textured implants, leading to the recall to protect patient health.
What Are Allergan's Links to BIA-ALCL?
The BIOCELL implants have a rough, textured surface that promotes tissue adherence to reduce movement within the breast pocket. However, this texture may also trap bacteria or create microscopic pockets that lead to chronic inflammation. Over time, persistent inflammation may cause immune system changes, potentially increasing the risk of BIA-ALCL. The textured surface is linked to a greater risk of bacterial contamination compared to other types of breast implants, possibly because of the increased surface area from the texture.
What To Do If Your Allergan Breast Implants Have Been Recalled
If your breast implants were recalled by Allergan, the first step you should take is to consult with your healthcare provider. They’ll be able to assess your health and look for symptoms of any conditions like BIA-ALCL that have been linked to the BIOCELL breast implants. Make sure to keep an eye out for symptoms yourself as well and get regular check-ups with your doctor. They may recommend removal of the implants. Make sure to keep records of all treatments received and connections between health conditions and the implants.
Contact an Allergan Breast Implant Lawyer
The experienced attorneys at Farah & Farah are backed by years of successfully fighting against large corporations and understand the devastating impact of defective medical devices on patients’ lives. With our proven track record in product liability law and comprehensive support throughout your case, we’re committed to holding Allergan accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for your suffering.
Who Qualifies for an Allergan Breast Implant Lawsuit?
If you have had Allergan BIOCELL breast implants and have developed BIA-ALCL as a result or you’ve had your implants removed because of your doctor’s recommendation, as a precaution because of the increased risk of BIA-ALCL, or because you’ve developed the symptoms of BIA-ALCL, you may have a case against Allergan.
How Long Do I Have To File an Allergen Lawsuit?
With each state having varying statutes of limitations for filing product liability claims, it’s important to contact an attorney to understand your rights. While some states may allow two years from the time of diagnosis or discovery of injury, others may offer up to four years. Additionally, there may be special provisions for cases involving medical devices that could affect your filing deadline. It’s important to talk to an attorney as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on possible compensation because the statute of limitations deadline has passed.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive From a Breast Implant Lawsuit?
Every case is unique, and our attorneys at Farah & Farah work diligently to maximize the possible compensation for our clients. You may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering, long-term healthcare needs, loss of quality of life, and more.
Find Your Strongest Advocate in Farah & Farah Allergan Breast Implant Attorneys
Allergan’s actions have caused significant harm to many patients by their defective implants. But with proper legal guidance, you can hold them accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. At Farah & Farah, our attorneys are dedicated to standing by your side and advocating for our clients. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your voice is heard. Contact us for your free consultation today, and let us fight for justice on your behalf.
We’re here to help. Reach out to Farah & Farah today
You can and should pursue justice through a defective medical device lawsuit. At Farah & Farah, we help you recover the maximum possible recovery or verdict from the people who caused your injury – so you can focus on recovering from what the defective device did to you without financial hardship.
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