BAPRAS reiterates its call for staged removal of PIP breast implants

3rd January 2012

 

BAPRAS has reiterated its recommendation that PIP breast implants should be gradually removed in order to best protect the women involved.

Tim Goodacre, chair of the BAPRAS Professional Standards Committee 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."

“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 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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