Why are PIP implants called 'PIP'?
PIP stands for 'Poly Implant Prothese', a type of breast implant that used to be marketed, and used, for breast augmentation and reconstruction.
Why have I heard of PIP implants?
PIP implants are currently the focus of health concerns across the world.
Why are there such concerns about PIP implants?
PIP implants were made in France by the company 'Poly Implant Prothese'. They had gained a licence to manufacture the implant by going through strict controls, but were then discovered to have switched the silicone filler from a medical grade silicone to an industrial one (usually used in bed mattresses). The PIP company has been closed down by the French authorities, but in the meantime a large number of implants had already been used for breast augmentation and reconstructions. It is thought that there are approximately 30,000 women in France with PIP implants and 40,000 in the UK. The PIP implants were not sold in the USA.
What are the health risks of PIP implants?
At the moment, there are no definite health risks known. It is thought by some, though, that PIP implants have a higher risk of rupture (leakage) and have a higher risk of developing cancer.
What sort of cancer can PIP implants cause?
At the moment, the UK Chief Medical Officer has said that there is no firm evidence that PIP implants increase any form of cancer. The fears, however, stem from a belief that there may be a link to Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, which is a rare form of cancer.
What is Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)?
ALCL is a rare form of cancer and is not 'catching' or infectious. The symptoms include sweating at night, weight loss, reduced appetite, and swelling of the glands in the neck, armpit or groin (these syptoms can also be due to lots of other causes though). ALCL is usually treated with chemotherapy, with or without radiotherapy.
What is being done about PIP implants?
The French government has said they will pay for all PIP implants to be removed (but only pay for replacement if the implants were used for breast reconstruction). In the UK, Health Secretary Andrew Lansley had stated that, as no evidence of a cancer link has been found, they would not be following the French move.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Tim Goodacre, President of BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons), has stated: "While the evidence shows that there is no need for panic as there are no proven links with cancer, the probable increased risk of rupture and potential irritation of the sub-standard silicone gel used in these implants means it would be sensible for the implants to be removed whilst they are still intact."
Following careful consultation, the UK National Health Service has now said they will offer exchange of the implants for anyone that had them placed by the NHS. Negotiations are under way with private health clinics to encourage them to follow suit, but at present the NHS has said they will remove the implants for free if private clinics refuse to do so (although in this instance the NHS will not replace the implants with new ones).
What should I do if I have PIP implants ?
You should contact the surgeon or clinic that put the implants in to discuss any concerns you may have. If you are unsure which implants you have, then your surgeon/clinic should be able to tell you.
Can other implants also cause problems ?
Yes, but not specific to the concerns over PIP implants. Read our article on breast augmentation for more information.
Other articles
You may also want to read our articles on:
Breast augmentation
Breast cancer
Breast reconstruction
Choosing a surgeon
Useful links:
More information on:
Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
PIP implants
NHS health news
The information provided is as a guide only and you should discuss matters fully with your specialist before deciding on any clinical action. Please also read our disclaimer
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