PIP implants
Introduction
PIP breast implants were withdrawn from the UK in 2010 after it was found they had been fraudulently manufactured with unapproved silicone gel, and were far more prone to splitting (rupturing) than other breast implants.
Research hasn't found any evidence to suggest that PIP implants pose a serious health risk, but they can cause unpleasant symptoms if they rupture, and you may be anxious about leaving them in.
If you have PIP implants, youshould discuss with a surgeon whether they should be taken out. The implants don't necessarily need to be removed, but they should be taken out if they rupture or you're worried aboutthis happening.
This page covers:
What are PIP implants?
Risks of PIP implants
How to find out if you have PIP implants
What to do if you have PIP implants
Removing and replacing PIP implants
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
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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