Breast

A Message from Dr. Zimmermann About BIA-ALCL

Recently, textured breast implants have been linked to a rare type of non-Hodgkins lymphoma called Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). As a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed a large number of procedures involving the placement of breast implants, from breast augmentation to breast reconstruction, I think it is important to address these rising concerns among my patients with reliable facts and up-to-date information about BIA-ALCL:

BIA-ALCL is a very rare type of cancer.
BIA-ALCL is a very treatable form of T-cell lymphoma, not breast cancer.
It is believed that 1 in 30,000 women with textured breast implants develops BIA-ALCL.
Confirmed cases of BIA-ALCL have been associated with both textured saline implants and textured silicone gel implants.
Smooth breast implants have not been linked to instances of BIA-ALCL.
Women with textured breast implants should pay close attention to any swelling or lumps that develop in the breasts.
If you have a concern about BIA-ALCL, contact your plastic surgeon as soon as possible for an examination and further testing if necessary.
BIA-ALCL can often be treated by removing the breast implant and the tissue capsule that surrounds the implant. In some rare instances, further treatment may be necessary.

As always, your health, safety, and satisfaction are my primary concerns. I am happy to answer any questions you have about BIA-ALCL and will be forthcoming with any new developments on this front. If you are interested in more information on BIA-ALCL, I have recently updated my breast implants page with a new section dedicated to BIA-ALCL and helpful informational resources on the topic. I encourage you to visit this page and explore the resources presented to further educate yourself about BIA-ALCL.

John P. Zimmermann, MD

Questions about BIA-ALCL or other breast implant concerns? Dr. Zimmermann can help. Contact The Aesthetic Surgery Center of Napa Valley to schedule an appointment.

Dr. John Zimmermann Receives Humanitarian Award for 45 Years of Philanthropy

Posted in Doctor's Orders, Our Community

humanitarian At the Aesthetic Surgery Center of Napa Valley, we are committed to helping the underprivileged around the world receive the care and treatment to which they would otherwise have little to no access. Our experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. John Zimmermann, has traveled extensively to provide his expertise and skill to disadvantaged individuals. To date, he has visited 15 underdeveloped countries and performed much needed cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. To honor his tireless work, the Marquette Medical Alumni Association recently bestowed Dr. Zimmermann with a Humanitarian Award for his 45 years of service and dedication to global health.

Presented on May 1, 2015, by Dr. Zimmermann’s alma mater, the Medical College of Wisconsin, the Humanitarian Award recognizes our plastic surgeon’s devotion to global health and well-being. In addition to acknowledging his 45 years of mission trips, the accolade also highlights his 23 years of leadership within his medical fields.

Dr. Zimmermann is honored to receive this prestigious distinction, and he looks forward to continuing his outreach programs and assisting patients with their plastic and reconstructive needs both at home and around the globe.

For more information about Dr. Zimmermann and his charitable programs, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.

“An Apple a Day”

Posted in Doctor's Orders

“An apple a day”…as the saying goes…”keeps the Doctor away.” Great advice…here’s why: Apples contain fiber, multiple pure vitamins, antioxidants to combat free radical damage in our cells, glucose for energy…

They may not save you from all that ails you, but eating an apple is a 5 minute exercise in taking care of yourself. Mom said “you are what you eat.” A crisp, shiny apple, packed full of good things, is just what the Doctor ordered (he did listen to Mom eventually).

During the few minutes it takes to enjoy that apple, take the time to think back to some of the happy times in your life that fulfilled you…try to develop a sunny outlook on life. Who couldn’t use a little of that every day? A positive outlook will keep us alive longer. That apple can bring you better health!

As Dad said…”if you don’t have your health”….

Let’s take his advice!

Cheers,
John Z. M.D., and the staff at the Aesthetic Surgery Center of Napa Valley