BAPRAS reiterates its call for staged removal of PIP breast implants
MEDIA STATEMENT- 3 January 2012
BAPRAS reiterates its call for staged removal of PIP breast implants
The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) has reiterated its recommendation that PIP breast implants should be gradually removed in order to best protect the women involved.
Tim Goodacre, BAPRAS expert and a leading consultant plastic surgeon, said:
“The conflicting announcements from the French and UK authorities about the health risks of the PIP breast implants will be causing considerable anxiety for women in the UK. This has been further accentuated by new data on rupture rates which is becoming available. 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."
Tim Goodacre continued:
“With such delicate surgery involved, we continue to recommend that any women considering cosmetic surgery ensure they are consulting fully qualified, GMC specialist-registered plastic surgeons who are current members of BAPRAS. They must not put themselves at any unnecessary risk.”
In order to protect women in the future, BAPRAS believes a national, compulsory, device-based Register should be established for all episodes of breast implantation, regardless of whether they are conducted privately or on the NHS.
Tim Goodacre will be attending an expert meeting set up by the MHRA on behalf of the Department of Health on Wednesday 4 January 2012.
If any women with breast implants have noticed a change in their breast (such as the appearance of a lump, pain or hardness) they should, as always, seek advice from their surgeon.
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About BAPRAS
BAPRAS, the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, is the voice of plastic surgery in the UK. It aims to increase the understanding of the professional specialty and scope of plastic surgery, promoting innovation in teaching, learning and research.
Founded in 1946 (originally as the British Association of Plastic Surgeons), today BAPRAS has over 800 members and is the professional representative body for reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeons providing services to patients on the NHS and privately in the UK. Members of the public can find a member plastic surgeon in their area by logging on to www.bapras.org.uk. Anyone can check the GMC to find out if a surgeon is on the plastic surgery specialist register; http://www.gmc-uk.org/register/search/index.asp