The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has created a new registry to compile data on breast implants.

The reason for this is to keep an eye on a rare medical condition called Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL). Although there have only been about 34 cases found out of an estimated 5 – 10 million women who have has a breast implant, scientists believe it should be monitored nevertheless.

The occurrence of this problem has been noticed over the last 25 years, but until now was not considered too serious. It is hoped that this new approach should help calm the fears of patients.

Felmont Eaves, MD, of Charlotte, NC, and ASAPS President told reporters: “Breast implants are the most studied device in medical history. As physicians, our primary commitment is providing safe and effective patient care. We share in the commitment of FDA and ASPS to the continued device evaluation and monitoring.”

The ASPS recommends that women who have had breast implants should continue as they always have done, with routine self examination and regular check ups.

The disorder itself apparently occurs in the scar tissue around the breast implant. Luckily it can be treated including if necessary removal of the implant.

Breast implant surgery is now a common cosmetic surgery procedure. There are also many reasons why women want the operation; most – about 80%, are purely cosmetic while 20% are medical.