PIP implants

Risks of PIP implants

PIP implants are two to six times more likely to rupture than standard silicone implants.

Thisdoesn't pose a serious risk to your health, but it can cause some unpleasant symptoms.

See your GP if you have signs of a rupture, such as:

lumpiness or swelling in and around the breast
a change in the shape of the breast
redness
pain and tenderness
a burning sensation
enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit

Ruptured PIP implants have no proven long-term health effects. British and European researchers have so far not found any evidenceto suggest that the ingredientsinthe implants can cause cancer or are toxic.

Seethe British expert review group's final report (PDF, 163kb) and the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) report (PDF, 963kb) for more information.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for pip implants

Introduction

Find out about faulty PIP breast implants, including why they are banned, and the latest safety information on removal and replacement.

What are PIP implants?

PIP implants are silicone breast implants containing unapproved silicone gel. They were manufactured in France by a company called Poly Implant Prostheses (PIP). The concerns relate to all breast imp

Risks of PIP implants

PIP implants are two to six times more likely to rupture than standard silicone implants. Thisdoesn't pose a serious risk to your health, but it can cause some unpleasant symptoms. See your GP if yo

How to find out if you have PIP implants

You may havebeen givendetails about your breast implants when they were fitted. This will ofteninclude information aboutthe manufacturer of your implants. If you don't have these details, you can ask

What to do if you have PIP implants

You should get medical adviceif you have PIP implants. If the implants were fitted on the NHS, your GP can arrange for you to see an NHS specialist. If they were fitted privately, contact the clini

Removing and replacing PIP implants

Some privateclinicshave agreed to remove and replace PIP breast implants free of charge, while others charge a fee. The following clinics have said they will replace PIP implants forfree ifmedically n

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