PIP implants (also known as “Cloverleaf”) have been withdrawn from the market following the discovery that the French manufacturing facility was using an substitute silicone gel to that officially approved between 2001-2009. The governing body the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority) has stated “At this time the MHRA does not have evidence of any additional health risks associated with PIP breast implants”. However, investigations are underway with the MHRA and their French counterparts into the alternative material used. We are expecting the MHRA to announce a policy for patients who have had PIP implants fitted towards the end of May.
The Hospital Group have not used PIP implants for some time, having moved to Allergan CUI Breast Implants and Natrelle implants in Spring 2009.
However, there are patients of ours prior to that who are likely to have PIP implants. Until further announcements from the MHRA, if you think you were a PIP implant patient and have any concerns about them, we are offering a consultation with a clinic nurse for initial discussion/assessment (this can be via telephone or in clinic). Please contact your local clinic, or call our central appointment line on 0121 445 0213. Where necessary or appropriate, the nurse will then refer you to see a surgeon. Don’t worry, there is no charge for this review, even for patients outside their aftercare package.
We will post further announcements after the MHRA ruling. You can also find information on the MHRA breast implant information page on http://www.mhra.gov.uk/Safetyinformation/Generalsafetyinformationandadvice/Product-specificinformationandadvice/Breastimplants/Siliconegelbreastimplants/index.htm
