Woman receives five-figure payout after developing breast cancer

A woman who developed a rare cancer after getting breast implants has been awarded a five-figure settlement after suing the manufacturer. Susan Axelby, 66, received a settlement payment from Allergan Ltd after her “nightmare” diagnosis of non-Hodgkinson’s lymphoma linked to their now-defunct products.

She initially underwent the double mastectomies in 1999 because of her fears about the high risk of breast cancer in her family. Following the invasive surgery, she was provided with Allergan breast implants.

However, Susan had more problems with them over the years – later she noticed significant swelling and pain around her right implant. And in 2018, she was diagnosed with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

The condition is a rare but potentially fatal form of non-Hodgkinson’s lymphoma that has now been specifically linked to Allergan breast implants. The same year as her diagnosis, the products were suspended from the global market and, following a 2019 recall, are no longer used in the UK.

Susan, of Sheffield, South Yorks., went on to settle her claim with Allergan in November 2023 without admitting liability. But despite her hefty payouts, she said it’s crucial that women are aware of the risks of implants.

Susan said: “My BIA-ALCL diagnosis was a nightmare. The impact on my life was very significant. I wanted to take legal action against Allergan to make sure there was some form of accountability. It has been seen that it is the opinion of experts that some of these implants cause cancer.

“It is essential that other women are made aware of this and that Allergan Ltd provides compensation so that they can take relevant steps to address their position.”

The international group claims department partner Sarah Moore, from the law firm Leigh Day, which represented Susan, further warned that women could be at risk. She said: “I am pleased that we have been able to reach this settlement for Susan and hope that it will give her some form of closure regarding her difficult experience with Allergan implants.”

She added: “As with any cancer, early diagnosis can be key to improving survival and outcomes. Leigh Day continues to assist women who have had to fight to get a diagnosis of BIA-ALCL and appropriate surgery and treatment. Despite increasing awareness of BIA-ALCL among patient groups, it is concerning that some clinicians, particularly in the private sector, appear to be unaware of the symptoms of ALCL.”

Allergan’s parent company, AbbVie, has been reached for comment.