PIP Implants FAQ
PIP Implants have been a big news item recently and we at LBPS want to provide clear and informative information on this as well as a solution for those who want to do something about it. After discussions with our team and also in response to the media we have put together an FAQ below – we hope you find it useful. Please do call us on 0207 487 0900 if you wish to discuss this further or simply book a consultation with Mr Inglefield online here.
Q: What are PIP implants and what is the problem?
A: PIP implants were produced by a French company, Poly Implant Prosthese. The implants used non-medical grade silicone rather than medical grade silicone. At the present time, there is no evidence of increased risk of toxicity or rupture of the implants. The French government has reported a higher incidence of rupturing than the UK government. The French government say that the rupture rate is 5%, whereas the UK government are quoting a 1-2 % rupture rate.
Q: How do I know if I have these?
A: If you are unsure of the implants that you have, please contact the surgeon or hospital that performed the operation.
Mr Inglefield agrees with the following findings of the expert group:
- a. There is no evidence that PIP implants are responsible for an increased rate of breast cancer.
- b. The evidence provided to the group to enable assessment of rupture rates is incomplete, further data is being sought.
- c. There is anecdotal evidence that the gel component of the implants is less cohesive (sticky) than most other contemporary implants,
- d. There is some anecdotal evidence, supported by animal studies, that the gel has a greater potential to cause local inflammation in the tissues
- e. The implication of these last two findings is that the gel has a greater opportunity to interface with the breast tissue in the case of rupture and leak, and that if it does, it has a greater potential to cause irritation and inflammatory reaction within the local tissue.
Q: What happens when an implant ruptures?
A: Firstly, there is no evidence that PIP implants rupture in greater numbers that other breast implants. The most reliable data is from the FDA White paper of the Mentor and Allergan core study – that shows rupture rates of 10.4% over 10 years.
If an implant ruptures, the silicone gel filling may leak into the body. Some women will not notice anything at all and there is no evidence of an increased cancer risk according to UK guidelines.
However, it can result in the formation of scar tissue which can change the shape and feel of the breast. The gel may be an irritant, causing pain and inflammation. It can also be more difficult to remove an implant once it has ruptured.
The French authorities have highlighted an unknown potential risk from the untested silicone gel.
Symptoms of Rupture may include:
- Change in feel of the breast
- Pain
- Hypersensitivity
- Signs may include;
- Firmness or Hardening of the breast
- Discomfort of the breast
- Tenderness of the breast
- Swelling of the breast or underarm
- Change in shape or size of the breast
- Lumpiness of the breast or underarm
Q: Do I need PIP implants to be removed?
A: At the present time, the UK government guidelines are that the PIP implants do not need to be removed. It is their belief that the associated risks of removal are higher than the risks of the implants. This is being reviewed. The French government disagrees and suggests all PIP implants should be removed. Mr Christopher Inglefield suggests that the PIP implants should be removed as soon as is convenient. It is only urgent if an implant has ruptured.
Q: Can the implants cause cancer?
A: At the present time there is no evidence to suggest that PIP implants are associated with a higher risk of cancer. France, the Netherlands, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Denmark and Malta all agreed that there was no evidence of any increase in incidents of cancer associated with PIP breast implants and no evidence of any disproportionate rupture rates other than in France. Information obtained from the Australian Regulatory Authority (TGA) is consistent with the figures from all the above European countries other than France in terms of rupture. They have no reported cases of lymphoma.
Q: I am worried – what shall I do?
A: If you have PIP implants and are concerned, you should contact the surgeon that performed the operation. Alternatively, Mr Inglefield is happy to see any patients with PIP Implants for a complimentary consultation.
Q: What does London Bridge Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic recommend?
A: Mr Inglefield recommends that because the implants contain non-medical grade silicone, that they should be removed. London Bridge Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic have set up a programme to help women who have PIP implants:
- Consultation fee waived
- 50% Reduced Hospital fee for surgery
- 50% Reduced surgery fee
- Replacement implants – Silimed – provided at reduced costs; supported by Eurosurgical.
Call us now to book your consultation and peace of mind on 0207 487 0900 or you can simply book online here.
