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Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants Update and Advice from Russell Jones and Walker Solicitors

27 January 2012

Advice for women with Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants

Please ensure you have filled out the form to be part of our PIP legal group click here to fill out our online form

There has been much coverage in the news surrounding Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants. The latest reports show that 45,000 woman women in the UK may have been affected by this. Our advice to those who have been affected in the first instance would be for concerned women to contact their GP, or the surgeon who carried out their operation. They may need to arrange an ultrasound scan to check if the implants have ruptured. Some of the women affected who had Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants had this check done last year when the problem was first identified. As an alternative, women can see their GP and get an NHS referral to ascertain if there is an issue and will be advised from there on the best course of action.

Our Petition on PIP Implants "PIP implants - The way forward"

Please sign our online petition to the Government on PIP Implants, which outlines specific requests to The House of Commons in relation to PIP Implant patients and proposals for the future regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry.

PIP implant Legal Update

07/02/12

Richard Langton appeared on BBC's Newsnight with Katie Price amoungst the guests talking about the PIP Implants click to see Newsnight

27/01/12

We believe most women with PIP implants have reasonable prospects of success in winning a claim for compensation. This is based on our belief that every woman who had PIP implants filled with industrial silicone has a claim for breach of contract against the clinic that fitted them.

You should be able to claim for reasonable costs associated with further surgery, and for the distress and pain and suffering of an additional operation. Even if you are not presently certain that you wish to have any further surgery our advice is that you must act quickly now to seek legal advice and register a claim. If you don't act quickly you may lose your right to claim.

However, it is not certain that all clinics are insured. If your clinic is uninsured or not fully insured to cover your claim, it may not have enough money to pay your damages and costs. This means that despite winning you could end up with less than your full entitlement or nothing. This should not be a problem for women who paid for their implants with their credit card because they can sue their credit card provider and the credit card providers or their insurers should be able to pay out the full value of claims.

For those who have not already filled out the PIP enquiry form please do so as soon as possible here

Rest assured that if after investigating your individual claim we assess that you do not have reasonable prospects of success, whether because your clinic is uninsured or otherwise, we will not charge you.

We have received hundreds of enquiries from those like you who have concerns over the last few days asking to be updated or to register their interest in potential litigation. Because everyone's circumstances are personal to them, we are speaking to everyone who has asked us to do so individually about their PIP implants but we apologise as this is taking longer than we first anticipated due to the number seeking assistance.

If you know of anyone else who would benefit from being updated please feel free to forward on our contact details and this information or ask them to fill out our pip legal update online form so we have their details instead.

Don’t panic

We appreciate this is a distressing time especially in light of the recent media coverage around PIP implants. However, the advice from the Department of Health continues to state that the routine or immediate removal of the implants is not necessary for the majority of women based on the data they have been given. This is not to say though that those who wish to have their implants removed should not do so if this is their preference

We remain committed to finding the right solution for everyone who has contacted us as well as campaigning for the improvement of protection and regulation throughout the UK cosmetic surgery sector.

As an immediate course of action, there are a number of steps that we would suggest that you go through:

Find out if you have PIP implants if you do not already know. You can do this by requesting information from the supplier of the PIP implants i.e. from the clinic which did the surgery or from the surgeon.

We have had requests from clients to assist them with this process below is a helpful guide to assist those requesting implants.

Help Applying for your Medical Records for PIP implant

Address the letter to the designated holder of the record. (this could be the clinic where the operation too place)
Include information so that they can identify your records – i.e. your name and address. (Further to this you may be sent an application form so you can access your records).
Specify exactly what you want to see. If only requesting to view the records this could cost £10 as opposed to receiving copies which could cost up to £50. You will need to identify this when requesting. When viewing your records, you will need to look at the operation records page. This allows you to view stickers which will identify the makers of your implant. Those with PIP breast implants will see stickers reading PIP or Cloverleaf Medical Implants.
(The person with this data must reply to your request within 40 days. They must reply within 21 days if the records have been added to in the last 40 days.)
If you have PIP implants we would suggest that you contact your GP or the clinic where the operation took place to request a scan. This will enable the medical practitioner to assess whether your implants pose an immediate risk, i.e. they are ruptured. You must be persistent in this if your request is denied.
Once you have had the scan there are two outcomes:

If your scan shows that your implants are ruptured and you would like them removed you would need to contact the clinic to see what your options are. We are looking into options for compensation at this point for the cost of the replacement/removal of the implants and this will be communicated as soon as things become more clear.
If your scan shows that there is currently no sign of issues with the implant you will need to make the decision as to whether you would like them removed/replaced or continue to monitor them. Again we are also exploring the legal aspects of compensation and costs of the additional procedure.

To ensure that this does not happen to people in the future we are calling on the industry to make changes and increase the regulation around these kind of procedures. Please be assured we are a leading national law firm who has the specialists to deal with these kind of cases. Our legal work is done on a no-win-no-fee arrangement and you receive 100% of the compensation awarded to you.

We will update this site further with more information as soon as it is available.

Developments in the media about Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants

An insurance scheme for cosmetic surgery patients could be introduced after the PIP breast implants scandal. Sir Bruce Keogh, who is leading the government review into PIP implants, told how the scheme would protect consumers. The inquiry team will meet in two weeks' time to review the data from private clinics about the failure or rupture rate of PIP implants. Further tests are also being conducted on the industrial silicone which was used in the implants, to determine how toxic it was (20/01/12)

The Government has launched a campaign to reassure women who are concerned about PIP Implants. Over the weekend a series of adverts appeared in the national press giving advice to women who think they may be affected. (14/01/12). The adverts advise women to find out if they have them, to speak to their specialist or GP, and "agree what's best for you". The advert states that "The NHS will support women with PIP breast implants."

The Government last night (06/01/12) announced that it would replace the implants for those women who have had PIP implants for reconstuctive reasons on the NHS. They have also called for private clinics to follow suit and offer the replacement implants or removal. They are advising private clinics to follow suit and replace the implants free of charge. Some private clinics have said that they will replace the affected implants. We would suggest that those who would like to be updated further fill out their details in the form and we will send you more information and update you regarding your legal position.

Reports on 05/01/12 surrounding the PIP implants indicate the UK Government continues to refuse to advise mass removal of the implants. They have, however, said they would be open to setting up a national register and called on all the private clinics who used these implants to replace them free of charge. Following this announcement Nuffield Health said they would assist their patients with removal of the implants. The Health Secretary Andrew Lansley ordered a review of the data from private clinics into the rupture rates and has given a deadline of tomorrow (6/01/12) for this to be completed. Following this we expect the government to make further recommendations to those affected by the PIP Implants.

The UK Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (UKAAPS http://ukaaps.org/) has created a register for women who have had breast augmentation surgery to log their implants and surgeon on its sister site, the Breast Implant Association, (http://www.breastimplantassociation.org/). This can help with early identification of any surgeon who has high complication rates and any implant with high problem rates so that the industry can be more proactive in resolving issues that arise.

The BBC reported on the 23/12/2011 that the advice from the French Government is that those people who have Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants should have them removed. Currently the UK medicines watchdog has not issued the same advice but said that those who are concerned should seek medical advice. The French Government have also stated that they will pay for French Citizens to have the removal as long as the original procedure was for reconstructive reasons not cosmetic.

A number of online support groups have been set up for people to discuss the issues that have arisen from the announcement; one of the biggest is 'tara smith genuine pip implants support group' which is a Facebook group for those affected.

Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants in the UK

British women will be understandably confused by conflicting opinion as to whether their breast implants are safe or not. Hopefully the French experts are wrong. If it turns out that they are correct, we will be seeking compensation for our clients for the cost and upset of further treatment.

Claims may arise from this should those women affected by faulty Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants in the UK which have ruptured choose to take action to reclaim the cost of further corrective surgery.

Cosmetic surgery is no different from the sale of any other goods or service by a business. The implants used have to be of reasonable quality and safe. Plainly Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants use an inferior material which means that there may be a risk of a rupture. Many women may choose to wait and see but of course we advise that they take medical advice Those women with ruptured implants may also be entitled to additional compensation for the trauma of a second operation and related financial losses like loss of earnings.

Having taken medical advice women who choose to proceed and seek to reclaim the cost of the treatment should take specialist advice from a clinical negligence specialist solicitor who deals with cosmetic surgery claims. This may also be a case of product liability.

Frequently Asked Questions about PIP implants

To help those effected we have produced a page of Frequently Asked Questions about PIP implants click here to see these.

To be kept informed about future legal developments of Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) implants and how this affects you please call 0800 916 9046 or click here to fill out our online form

Comments (186)

Russell Jones & Walker Solcitors 14 Feb 2012 1:46 pm

We believe that all women who may wish now or in the future to seek to recover the original surgery cost and/or the cost of replacement surgery and whether their implants have ruptured or not and whether they currently intend to have replacements or not, should instruct a solicitor now.

If they do not they may be deemed to have waived their rights.

We cannot guarantee that the claim will succeed because of the continuing uncertainty of the existence of insurance or of solvent Defendants, but women who paid for their surgery on any sort of credit arrangement (loan or credit card) have good prospects of recovery. We are aware that some of the clinics do hold insurance. Others seem to be unclear whether they do or not. The distributor of the implants does hold insurance. Even where there is insurance it may be limited in extent, so full damages may not be recoverable.

However, no woman should be charged for pursuing a claim, and so as long as their solicitor is making this clear, they should have no real risk.

We will investigate each client's situation and if there is no insurance or otherwise no money available to pay your claim, we will not charge you legal fees. If there is insurance/money available, then we will continue to pursue your claim no win no fee as fully described in our business terms.

rachel 13 Feb 2012 9:57 pm

i had my implants done at the hospital group, they confirmed i had pip implants, my GP wouldn't refer me at first, another GP at my practice referred me instead, when i finally had my ultra-scan they only scanned my left breast and not the right, it came back clear, but I'm still worried about the other one, so now i feel I'm back at square one trying to get referred for an ultra-scan but at this point i feel i should pay private to have it done. has anyone else experienced this with the NHS?
i feel so lost and upset as i want them out now regardless of what the scan shows as i feel i'm waiting for them to rupture before anyone will act on it, also i'm not happy with THG and how there handling things , ive had them in 3 1/2 years and will have to pay half the original cost to have them redone, i'm also having burning pains (for 6 months) has anyone else had burning pains where there implants have not ruptured? and is this normal, i haven't had it before in all the time they have been in, know one seems to be giving me answers.

Kerry jane 13 Feb 2012 6:05 pm

Hello again, went for scan at the hospital today was made ever so upset as got made to feel like a keach as nhs are sick of taking on the mistakes from the PIP Iplants, got told theres a slight problem with my left implant but its not clear so now after much upset and persuasion been referred for a MRI, im gutted ive lost 2 stone in weight cant concentrate or nothing, after the hospital i contacted harlley medical group and was told all we suggest is that you put it in writing to head office but be prepared for a long reply as so many complaints, the hospital said that who ever put them in shud replace free of charge as when we have implants there ment to last from 10-15 years so surely they have insurance to cover!!!! Im sick to my stomach with the whole situation...Ruptured or not they need to be removed and replaced A.S.A.P... Id love to go else ware n pay to have it done but its impossible , ive now got a solistor involved whos dealing purely to do wit pip so lets hope we all get someware. Thanks

Anonymous 13 Feb 2012 10:51 am

Let me tell you all that if your implants are pre 2001 and you are a Transform patient they will NOT help you. I had pip implants in 1999. I have been very very poorly for 18 months with a debilitating chronic inflammatory disease called Dermatomyositis. I have since found out one of my implants is leaking and the illness I have is directly linked to silicone implants particularly when they are leaking. I rang Transform and they made an appt. for me to go to the clinic in Manchesterbto see the surgeon Mr. Clarke. They also told me, after digging out my medical record that they would remove and replace at cost price £2650. This was in December. I have waited until Feb for that appt. and after sorting child care my husband and I made the 3 hour round trip. I never got to see Mr. Clarke, just Elaine the clinic manager. Told me since the phone call a decision was made to only offer the removal and replacement at £2500 to pip patients who had surgery 2001 onwards and that when I had my surgery the implants back then were only guaranteed for 3 years. I was told they would last 15 yrs maybe more. I cannot afford nearly £4000 and why did nobody have the decency to ring me before making that journey if things had changed. Where do we stand if had surgery prior it 2001 but have pips? What a disgusting way to treat people. If they can put it right for £2500 without making profit then why do they want to profit from my suffering? Just be aware.......it's very scary and I have no idea what to do and no choice but to have them removed ASAP so I can gat better

Ann 13 Feb 2012 9:34 am

Hi, this is for anonymous of 4th February. I attended the appointment with my daughter to see Mr. Aurakzai and I remember him telling us about these new implants that had come from France and he was extolling their virtues. He also promised a lifetime
guarantee. Although she has not kept all the paperwork, we do have the little 'labels' which give us the informationn as to size of each implant and also that they are pips. It also appears that Mr. Aurakzai was the founder of Bodylooks and not just an employee, but I can not swear to this, have just done a bit of digging on the internet. Have not contacted him directly as it appears others have done so and he has not been very helpful. We are waiting to see if any of the firms of solicitors working in this field, come to any conclusion, who, if anyone, in this chain of 'liability', they have the best chance of suing. Good luck.

Anonymous 12 Feb 2012 6:46 pm

I had pip implants fitted by the harley medical group in 2006. I noticed a lump a few weeks before the silicone scandal was first made public. 3 weeks later my GP referred me to have an ultrasound. I have a confirmed severe leakage in the left breast, and hardening in the right. My body has rejected the implants my surgeon says. I am worried that HMG may ask me to sign a disclaimer waiver on the day of the operation. Has anyone experienced this? By the way, I have been waited since the begining of Jan 2012 to get them removed. My op is the end of next month! I am furious with Harley medical group.

Anonymous 12 Feb 2012 5:52 pm

Y Michael 12 Feb 2012 11:58 am

done & dusted .. for my sanities sake I could wait no longer for Highgate Hospital of 'Horror' to return my calls after more than a month let alone decide to do the right thing soo, I went ahead with, Mr Vivek Sivarajan from Elanic to remove & replace AND thank god I did as there was a gel bleed & deflation of my PIPS that was not picked up by an ultra scan. After much research I happily travelled to glasgow from London for my consultation & surgery 100% confident in Mr Sivarajan & Nuffield who are offering a genuine price reduction to help out PIP victims to make an informed choice of what to do. So any woman who is thinking about using/paying a clinic who has refused to help their own patients with PIPS free of charge & want to charge them AGAIN to remove and or replace their poison PIPS should think again - we need to stick together and boycott these Horror Hospitals; Highgate & Harley St to name a few - shame on you - as it's immoral that they're trying to capitalize on our desperation when it was probably trust that we felt initially when choosing & deciding in the first instance to have our procedures at your clinics!!

It's only been 2 days since my operation & the relief was immediate in terms of peace of mind.. I would like to thank my surgeon Mr Vivek Sivarajan for his considerate approach and recommend him to any PIP woman thinking about replace or remove - well worth the travel & well worth sticking it on a credit card if that's your only means.. I can finally sleep at night & that is priceless!

Kerry jane 9 Feb 2012 1:46 pm

Message to CHARL, i too had em dun at highgate n ive get severe rippling, indent on one n ive dropped cup size they are so ignorant n just keep telling my ive got to pay to em sorted i explained u dun this to me so u need to rectify it im so upset as i get pain, tingling im devastated if u nd to contact me my email is k-elz@hotmail.co.uk thanks for ur info

Anonymous 9 Feb 2012 1:11 pm

I went through the same Trilucent nightmare and had to have mine replaced, I cannot remember when but 2000ish. I had it done at the Evelyn hospital in Cambridge which is now part of the Nuffield Group. They have told me that all files are destroyed after 8 years. I have a number for my surgeon who is still practising, a Dr George Cormack. I have tried to ring him but as yet have received no response. I have no idea whether I have PIP, but have read that they were extensively used at the time and also as a replacment for Trilucents. If anyone has a similair experience then please let me know. What do I do if I cannot get hold of this surgeon / my notes?

Russell Jones & Walker 9 Feb 2012 10:04 am

Thanks to you all for sharing your experiences and we hope that we can help you get a resolution to your problem. We are doing our best to make sure that we are not letting this issue faze out. You may have seen Richard Langton one of our Lawyers on BBC Newsnight with Katie Price talking about the issues which you are all facing and the way forward. Please make sure you have joined the group by filling the form at www.rjw.co.uk/pip and we will contact you.

Karen 8 Feb 2012 8:58 pm

I have just found out that I have got pips I am worried sick I got them done in the birkdale clinic in Liverpool I am almost sure they told me they were saline water inplants but got the letter yesterday telling me they are pips got to go the doctors on Monday for them to arrange a MRI scan I can't sleep I feel I'll with worry .

april wilkinson 8 Feb 2012 8:10 pm

finally after over a month of fighting with my gp ,i collected alot of info regarding my pip situation, with lumps under my arm ,paying for a private mri scan i managed to get a referal to the breast clinic,i went today had a second confirmation that my right implant is ruptured they also told me i have silicon in my lymph nodes and afatty lump in my left breast .im so angry with my gp if she had refered mr the first time i went to see her . all this anguish and anxiety would have been over with by now

Lottti 8 Feb 2012 2:03 pm

MORGAN: Mr Sing contact No: 0207 387 4442. I have just spoke to his secretary. Have PIP's, fitted in Oct 2000. When I first spoke to her she found my records and her comment was 'Im sorry but it isnt good new's) I said PIP's were suppose to be safe pre 2001 but she said she couldn't say because they just dont know. Want to charge me £800 for MIR scan, and full price for replacement £4900!! Hope this helps.

Anonymous 6 Feb 2012 9:21 pm

I found all of my paperwork and confirmed that I have PIP :( well there in there theres nothing I can do right now so trying not to worry. My GP didnt seem too bothered, but has referred me for a scan with the NHS. Surgicare are a disgrace "we sold our company with NO patient liability"????? WHAT??? I trusted them to supply me with a product that had been researched. If this was a car, it would have been recalled.....but no girls, we have to put up and shut up, until the courts decide that we are not all just a bunch of jumped up pretty girls who are so vain, we needed bigger boobs! NOT the case, most of us lived 40 yrs plus, debating this and saving for it, and reached our final decision based on the advise of so called experts, and by OUR government rubber stamping these implants. I am utterly disgusted. What I am scare dof and would apppreciate your comments on, is that i have lost loads of my energy, but put it down to my age, is this something others can relate to? (BTW not a ploy for compensation, but a genuine concern). I hope we all get sorted girlies, I just feel so sick about it, nice to share as I havent even told my best friend :( x

Di 6 Feb 2012 5:39 pm

FOR ANN.... Hi this Di, thankyou for the information, i really appriciate it. All i know was that the surgeon i had had only worked for bodylooks for a few months and at the meeting about the company going BUST, which was in Manchester, he told me hadn't been paid a penny for the work he'd done for them. Hopefully he might be reading these comments and have my records afterall. Thanks Again x

Charl 5 Feb 2012 2:23 pm

I had my initial op at Highgate hospital through HMG in May 2004. I had piercing shooting pains from the outset but was told this was normal (as i had my implants behind my breast muscle as my skin was very tight) Now they are both severely rippled and lumpy and have lost 3 cup sizes. like everyone else i am still awaiting any confirmation from HMG on who, what and why!!!!! Apart from the problems with the breasts i am encountering a lot of joint and muscle pain... (carrying heavy pans, opening packets, even just bending arms hurts elbows both inside and out. Can anyone advise if they have had any of these symptons?? I have already been under my Dr for the last 6 months and have had all blood tests done, arthritis and thyroid and all came back normal......can anyone shed any light on this or am i just going mad?????!!!!!!

Anonymous 4 Feb 2012 8:34 pm

This message is for Ann who posted 1st Feb, I also had this surgeon at Highgate through Bodylooks in 2001, has your daughter managed to find out any info on her implants? I'm finding it a nightmare trying to get hold of any anyone. Thanks

Anonymous 4 Feb 2012 8:19 pm

I have P.I.P implants and have the paperwork with serial and lot numbers.I had my surgery in October 2000. My surgeon was Dr A Aurakzai and I had it done at the Highate Hospital. I have contacted him via email and he says it is only P.I.P implants from 2001 that are of concern and that this is sourced from Medical devices alert MHRA. He also said he was an employee of Bodylooks (liquidated in 2003) and is not liable. I am convinced mine are substandard and there is lots of info on the web saying P.I.P implants pre 2001 are of concern.Today Tracey Stevens (Mail online today) had ruptured P.I.P implants done via a private clinic in 2000. Please help with any advice.

Anonymous 3 Feb 2012 11:41 pm

I had mine done in october 2005 by a Mr Aurakzai Khan at " first trust in preston .. I dnt think this is still open thou.... i know i have pips in because i had to have 1 removed after complications so he gave me a spare to wear inside my bra till it healed.. 3 months later had the op to replace the left 1 .but this has always been a bit tender or i get numbness areas on it ....managed to get some paper work from my doctor with his name on ..but only the release papers.after my left breast was taken out ...nothing else ..going to see him on 23rd feb..spoke to other ppl and not got very good feedback ..he doesnt want to know about the problems and im getting a bit worried about it all now .. could do with some advice plz..

Stephanie in Kent 3 Feb 2012 8:47 pm

I am a PIP victim, however prior to me recieving my letter of confirmation from the Harley Medical Group I have been having severe chest pains in both my breasts, I have sat for hours in A&E just to be given an ECG been told its not my heart and to go home... I can't sleep, I am in constant pain, yet still no one will help me. The clinic say "go to your GP and get refered for a scan" my GP couldn't give a rats arse about the pain I am in, once I showed her the letter I recieved only yesterday she all but rolled her eyes at me and said yes you guessed it "Speak to the clinic that put them in" I've had these things eight years and I totally understand the argument that the NHS shouldn't foot the bill, but where does this leave me? I am in agony and the clinic won't see me unless I have a confirmed rupture, the NHS won't give me a scan so I am back to square one. I am not asking the NHS to foot the bill to get them out or replace them I just want the scan... I am a british tax payer, always paid my stamp duty, I am not obese, I don't smoke, I don't drink and I don't do drugs - I give no strain to the public pocket in terms of my health or any benefits, yet I sit in a&e for five hours in crippling pain, surrounding by druggies and drunks and the dregs of society all high fiving each other on a friday night like a&e is there meeting place... and I get told no one can help me. My partner died of bowel cancer just four months ago, very suddenly as he was only diagnosed twelve weeks earlier to his death at just thirty years old! my mental state is fragile and I am still dealing with the funeral costs, the NHS are not even prepared to throw me a bone and save me the £500 cost for a private scan.

Mark my words it will not be long before a woman kills herself over this scandal and the stress and hurt it is causing to thousands of women out there who are facing the prospect of having free removals and being left disfigured and scarred,almost mutilated because they can't afford replacements, as one of them I now face a future with no partner or children and the prospect of being left with two sagging pieces of skin and a load of scar tissue, I will never be able to undress in front of anyone again farless have an intimate relationship in my future... I think GP's need to wake up and look deeper into the reasons of the surgery in the first place and assess each case rather than tarring us all as NHS spongers!!

Anonymous 3 Feb 2012 5:11 pm

I had my surgery done in Nov 2007 through the Harley Medical group.I had VIP Service; now I realise it was for them ;to earn my hard savings for my Implants.My Operation was moved from Highgate as it was overbooked to Holly House in Essex . My room was small and dingy and it didnt matter at the time as I was going to get my operation.
I am getting prodding on the inner of my left breast and my left arm aches most of the time. From a week ago my right breast is doing the same .
I am still waiting for Harley Medical to call/E-mail me to confirm that I have PIP Implants or not.
Thank God I had my orignal paper work and the Horror of finding that I have the PIP implants !!!!!.
I am now waiting to have scans done and my GP has been very understanding and supportive; shame I cannot say that about the Harley Medical.
I put my Trust and Hard earned money in the Harley Medical Group, and all I get is the standard E-Mails sent on a weekely basis and yet 4 weeks of my telephone calls and E-mails no Confirmation from them regarding that I have the PIP; i am fortunate I kept my records.
Harley Medical and all thoes involved have a duty of care ESP as I have found out from a Dctor/Surgeon that the PIP implants cost £70 !!!!!!! and I paid £5000 !!!!!!!
NONE of US should have to pay to get them removed and Replaced.
This is a very distressing time for me and my family not forgetting everyone else involved.

Charl 1 Feb 2012 2:40 pm

The Dr's are saying that ruptured implants cannot be associated with cancer!!! How can they be sure of this when no long term studies have been done on the pips??? What I would like to see is an impartial medical body monitor us women for the next 10yrs, give them access to out medical records etc and see if they can say the same then. I think I remember someone in power once saying that no human being could contract the Mad Cow Disease!!!!!
I had my implants done at HMG in 2004. I have had pains since the outset. Was told that because they were placed behind the muscle that it was settling in pains!!
I have been unwell for over six months - muscle stiffness to arms and legs, muscle spasms, pins and needles and severe cold. My doc took full bloods and all came back good. I worry that mine have ruptured as rippled, lumpy and can actually put half a finger length straight through one implant. As mine were put behind my breast muscle and they are leaking where is it going??? On numerous occasions i have woken up feeling i have had a rhino sleeping on my chest and then the back of my breasts are burning and feel inflamed. I have booked a private mri through BMI who have been brilliant. I'll know more next week and will update. Good luck to all of you, all we want is to see an end to this nightmare !!!

Ann 1 Feb 2012 12:38 pm

Hi, this is for Di who posted on the 26th January. My daughter also used BODYLOOKS in 2001.She had her surgery done at Highgate Hospital. I believe(but I am not sure, they may have had another clinic in Manchester). Anyway, her surgeon's name was Mr. Aurakzai and his office was at 10 Harley Street. Don't know if that helps at all.

Anonymous 1 Feb 2012 12:23 pm

Had surgery 1998 with Transform - they have advised me that they were Pips but not to worry as they were before the 2001 cut off date - but from reading all this I am still very worried. Seen my GP who suggested going for a scan (Privately) and now trying to book one.

Anonymous 1 Feb 2012 11:20 am

further to my recent comment about my pip implants, i went last night to see my consultant about the results of my mri scan and to arange and replacement to book myself in ! but to my horror he said that although the implants were intact i had an abnormal lump probably a silicone bleed due to to the implant outshell not being high grade quality and this has been quite common apparently ! i now have to go through the nhs to the 2week wait breast clinic for an ulta sound scan as he needs to be certain that it isnt cancer , i am now sick with worry having to wait surely a private hospital should undertake the ulta sound scan to! wondered if anyone else is going through these similar problems ?

sarah 1 Feb 2012 12:05 am

i had implants fitted in 2005 with transform. i had my original paperwork so knew straight away that they were pip. i have been for a scan today and have been told that they have both ruptuered badly. i have been unwell for a few years now feeling exhausted, hot flushes, aching, headaches and more but my gp has never found a cause saying i have a virus or i am stressed/depressed. i am now worried that the pip implants have been the cause. transform want £2500 to replace the ruptured implants but i dont have the money. this is not right

Anonymous 31 Jan 2012 10:49 pm

BODYLOOKS was the harley Street clinic that closed down in 2003. The founder and main surgeon was Mr Khan A Aurakzai now working in the north of England.

Kerry jane 30 Jan 2012 5:46 pm

Hello, im updating from my last time on here.
Went to my GP this morning explained i have the pip implants and that i need a scan to have them checked after a long debate my gp finally referred me to the breast clinic to see if they can help. I understand the gps frustration as he explained we pay all that money privately and its down to them to sort out, its disgusting i think ware people are at rist with the pip implants it down to the place to arrange such scans, surely there insured. Well ill update when ive a date fir breast clinic, fingers crossed soon.

Y Michael 28 Jan 2012 4:08 am

In reply to Lora re: Highgate Hospital & Mr Winston Shaer my surgeon also unfortunately! Google him and read the horror story about him, Highgate hospital and the unfortunate death of his patient :(

As for Highgate Hospital I wouldn't hold my breathe for them, lip-service that's it with them. They appointed 2 people to deal with PIP and I got through once begin January and then the answerphone took over and not a word since despite leaving messages. I have already posted on 17th January so read below BUT Winston Shaer & Highate Hospital is a no hoper in terms of PIP so beware people, Highgate Hospital changed ownership apparently after death of patient <<< doesn't take rocket science to work out why!! Soo as far as I am concerned HIGHGATE HOSPITAL is as toxic as PIP who have washed their hands of all responsibility!!

I have now booked with Elanic BAAPS Surgeon Mr Vivek Sivarajan in Glasgow who offer PIP remove & replace with integrity.

With the exception of the few.. cold truth is we are just £££ signs to the world of plastic surgeons making double doe on our misfortunes because with all the bad press of PIP my brain has rejected my PIP implants regardless of rupture or leakage :( I just want them out and our Government has failed all of us just as much as the surgeons, hospital, manufacturers for not being pro-active like other countries all because of money money money >>>> standing off my saop box now!!

Erm, one other point to mention - I enquired about one of the surgeons who was on the silicone scandel itv1 for a consultation regarding remove/replace and was told that (i'm still in disbelief) "if i had a leak/rupture the cost of the surgery would increase as it would be messy and the theatre would need cleaning."

Russell Jones & Walker 27 Jan 2012 7:53 pm

We have updated the information in the update story above. Please make sure that you are fill out the online form asap to be part of the RJW PIP Group at www.rjw.co.uk/pip

Anonymous 27 Jan 2012 10:04 am

I had pip inplants at Highgate Hospital in 2005.Had consultation with surgeon on Wed as mine have ruptured quite bad and have huge lumps of silicone in armpit and side of breast.He refused to replace them and said go to the nhs.The nhs will only remove them then i would have to go private to have them replaced.Not only will it cost alot i would have to have surgery twice.The rupture of my inplants have caused me alot of medical problems.If the nhs wont replace the inplants we should be allowed to pay them for the inplants to be replaced at the same time of removal

Anonymous 27 Jan 2012 3:49 am

Had implants in 1999, from cloverleaf. My right hand breast is different to left hand breast slightly ripply. Now very worried as sure PIP implants. Do get pins & needles in arms/legs, cant believe that it could all be due to these aliens inside my body. Due for an ultrasound scan next week, Im lucky I can afford this, but feel desperately sorry for everyone with these inside them and cant afford to get it investigated.

Camilla 26 Jan 2012 10:22 pm

Hi,

Can the person who had their surgery with Nu Life please get in touch with me. I had my surgery there as well but don´t have any records of it and need to get in touch with the surgon.
camilla.algarheim@gmail.com

Thanks

Di 26 Jan 2012 5:00 pm

I had mine done in Sept 02 through BODYLOOKS with a life time guarentee, only to have a letter sent to me by the surgeon to let me know the company was going into liquidation 5 weeks after my op. so they must have known they were going 'BUST' and shouldnt have been offering their money making service anyway. I have done countless research and phone calls to hit a dead end every time. I had no medical paperwork, just the normal bumph from someone trying to sell their goods, and have searched my house time after time but cant find anything with my surgeons name as i have been told i need to know who he was and maybe he might have my records in his personal copies. as it was in 2002, my medical records from the hospital was destroyed at 8 years.. I also have the rippling and denting and hardening around the edges of the implant, pain and pins and needles. i have been told i need to see my gp to be referred to a plastic surgeon and go from there and that the NHS will only remove, not replace, not good enough, if the government had been doing the health and safety checks properly 1000s of us wouldnt be in this situation. HELP please

Lora 26 Jan 2012 4:44 pm

Hi , first contacted highgate hospital on wed's 15 jan , to see if I've got the pip implants and have called back several times . It's now the 26 jan . Still no call back . Did any one else use highgate hospital and how long did it take for them to contact them? I'm also concerned about if I have got these implants ,if thay will be replaced free of charge , I know highgate have said thay will replace if you paid them directly . I had the soya bean implants and the insurance company paid the hospital . Where do I stand ? As I didn't pay them directly . Any one know?

Anonymous 26 Jan 2012 3:52 pm

I had my implants 'silicone cohesive gel' at the Cambridge Private Hospital in Nov 2000. I had rippling to one side and went back in 2002 where Anthony Erin the surgeon said he would contact the manufacturer and come back to me - he never did. I have tried to find out if they were PIP implants in light of the recent news but the hospital went into liquidation in 2009 and I have had an out of office email reply stating they will try to look through the thousands of records sent to them by the liquidators. Did anyone else use this clinic/surgeon at that time and do they know what their implants are?

Kerry jane 26 Jan 2012 1:22 pm

Had pip implants april 2008 at harley medical they were fine but last summer i went back to see the surgeon as ive got severe rippling in both breast and indent on left breast and they seem smaller i was fobbed of with your skin is very slim and theres no problem. I get tingling in my breast and headaches quite alot, i contacted harley today and was told to see gp for a scan, in reality i think its harleys job to do this, i could never raise the £7000 they said for replacement, i think they caused this so every one should have there mind at rest and have them replaced free of charge, there happy when taking your money but ignorant when theres a problem.

Lisa Chapman 26 Jan 2012 4:45 am

I had implants done privately in 1987, they felt hard, but as there was nobody i new to compare with as it wasnt as common i left them looking like tennis balls for 10yrs due to having my 4 children.
In 2002 after the edge of one of them showing through my skin, i went to see my GP who referred me to the NHS at St Georges hospital tooting, where a scan revealed a rupture & capusualtion of implants. I had them removed, along with the scar tissue & replaced. They were still firm but as i had little breast tissue was told its the way my body reacts to them. In 2008 i had edges sticking out again & a peas sized lump below one of my nipples! My GP referred me back to the hospital for a biopsy. I was seen by a cancer consultant who suggested they remove the implants as they may not be able to get lump out without damage as my implants have also been able to be felt due to being placed above the muscle & having little breast tissue! I had the op, rippling was seen on post op a wk later but they looked & felt the best i have had in 3 yrs although still firm ,but i had already thought i would never have softer ones by the 3rd op...I was very sore due to the amount of scar tissue she scrapped away, that i said i was fine with the slight rippling as it was below the breast & didnt show.

Las dec i went to see my GP again as the left one has lowered over the last few years & now i can feel more ripples & a bulged where my implant is heading under my armpit slightly! I didnt want it to get worse over the years as i am 46 in feb & wouldnt was more surgery in my 50's on breast surgery. He said the nhs policy has all changed now & i couldnt get referred to St Georgies to see consultant who has looked after me unless i go private! He reluctantly referred me to the Health Board which is the system now used for them to decide if they will see you & as it was cosmetic reasons in the first place, he wrote in my opion she would not be considered! He said basically its a waste of time & go to private consultant! He did however send it off, only for Kingston hosp to phone me to say not enough info please get your GP to tell us more! I told my surgery, but by this time decided to get a private consultations opion! He said to go away & think about if i wanted further surgery & he would use a non silicon type of implant, slightly more expensive, as he thought i could be reacting to the Silicon! He also said he would place them under the muscle as i was so slim with little breast tissue! I was skinnier at previous ops but never told they would be better placed under the muscle!
So here i am due for last consultation on friday before op on 4th of feb, if they recieive my hospital notes in time....Today i get an emailed saying they received them & to inform me the nhs used PIP's!!!
My dilema is do i go ahead at the cost of 4,700 which i would get a loan for to stop implant slipping further down & have it done next week ...Or ask for a scan at nhs & go on waiting list & pursue the matter further! I was willing to get a loan even though i cant afford it, but part of me is angry that they are PIP's & all the problems i have had may be because of them & having a cancer scare & removing lump to place these in is even more upsetting!!
I have been diagnosed with clinical depression for the last year for other reasons which the doctor has just taken me off prozac in dec after 9mths as doesnt want me addicted to them & have now started the premenapausal stage, have now found i have abnormal cells from smeatr & due 2nd coloscopy in June, i dont need this on top & just want it sorted quickly! I have been told if i have it privately the nhs dont compensate the expense at a later date.

Thankyou for listening any comments would be much appreciated

Anonymous 25 Jan 2012 9:56 pm

had my implants 8yrs at birkdale clinic they are pips booked for a scan but cant afford to replace them so if scan shows they ok i will have to leave them till i can afford to replace them .over the last 2 yrs i have suffered alot of pain around my chestbone and heartburn genraly feeling unwell alot of blood tests have bn done found nothing just hoping now not due to the implants .hope all women with pips gets a solution sooner rather than later good luck to you all.

Anonymous 25 Jan 2012 11:25 am

I had my implants put in in 2002. At the end of 2009 i noticed a lump hanging from my left breast. After the usual tests it was discoverd that i had a rupture. I was offerd removal only , on the NHS. I opted to borrow the the money and have the removal done privatly ,as i didnt want to wait for my operation as i was so worried. I had been feeling "not well" for over two years and had pain in my breast also pins and needles in my arm. Within 4 weeks of my removal i started to feel better. I still have pins and needles in my arm and some joint pain ,but generally i feel well. I would advise any lady who reqiure removal ,not to return to orginal clinic, but choose somewhere local . Why pay these clinics again? particualy as women are being treated unfairly by them. They are the ones that chose these cheap inplants ,and still charged a high price!.

Anonymous 25 Jan 2012 1:12 am

When I had my implants in 2004 I was put on an implant register! Recently I got out my register ID card and tried to get in touch with them, only to find that the register was disbanded in 2005. (Great of them to NOT) inform me of this! Has anyone else experienced this???

Anonymous 24 Jan 2012 8:25 pm

Hi there, I have just found out that I have PIP implants. The procedure was at Transform Medical Group in 1998. They are telling me I have nothing to worry about as this was prior to 2001. I have looked on websites however, seem to be getting conflicting information, can you shed any light on this please

Lesley oliver 24 Jan 2012 1:58 pm

I had surgery in April 2006 at Harley Medical group but 18 months ago discovered a lump under my left arm.
My GP referred me to the local hospital who determined it was due to an implant rupture and referred me back to Harley Medical.
I was advised the implants would need to be removed and there. Would be a cost incurred plus cost to replace, as my daughter was getting married and it was an expensive time, I asked if there was any danger with silicone being in my lymph nodes and was told no I could put off the op if necessary
I had my PIP implants removed in September 2011 but still have the lump under my arm which is obviously filled with substandard silicone, my worry is that over the past 2-2 and a half years, I have suffered with a variety of issues, always tired, stuffing with constant headaches, aches and pains in various areas of my body, I feel these could all relate to the silicone still in my system but cannot find anyone to give me advice on what to do, who to see and whether I sneed the lymph nodes removing - can anyone shed any light on where I can get the information? I know as I have had them removed I should lucky to a certain degree but, as I know the silicone escaped into my system, I am scared of the consequences to my health.

Anonymous 24 Jan 2012 12:59 pm

I only had my implants because i was burned in an accident when I was a young baby. The NHS had carried out several reconstructive operations and left me looking a mess. When I asked the NHS for further reconstruction and implants so that I would look normal I was referred to one of their psychiatrists who wouldn't authorise any more procedures because I couldn't prove that my mental health was being affected! I was so ashamed of my scarring when I was younger that I didn’t have it in me to take it any further with the NHS. Being older and a little wiser now I realise I should have sued them at the time for butchering me! In any event I eventually decided to have some reconstructive work and implants done privately in 2006 through Surgicare Ltd. My PIP implants seem okay but since my surgery I've had 2 car crashes which I believe can cause any implants to rupture. I’ve been on the American FDA website and they seem to be saying that when silicone implants rupture they are more often than not silent ruptures so it’s unlikely you would get symptoms in a lot of cases. I've also contracted a form of cancer of the blood/bone marrow that I definitely didn’t have before my implants were done – could ruptured implants have caused this? I don’t know where to turn to have this investigated. Surgicare tell me that they went into administration in 2010 coincidentally just after PIP implants were withdrawn, so they have no liability (surely this blatant avoidance of liability can't be right!). They say that they will remove them free of charge but I will have to pay for replacements. I don’t know what, if any, my rights are with Surgicare Ltd going into administration (aren’t they supposed to have insurance for this sort of thing?). I’m generally very worried that I’m going to have to have yet more surgery and the thought of more scarring fills me with so much dread. I was never told that implants only have a limited lifespan and so I never envisaged having further operations. Can’t we sue the MHRA? Do they have any accountability in all this for passing a product that is potentially dangerous? Sorry for the rant!

Anonymous 23 Jan 2012 3:07 pm

I have PIP implants, Aug 2008, in Belgium with Dr Tytgat. I have experienced pain, numbness in left breast and tinglnig down my left arm on and off since, I have a private ultrasound tomorrow to check it. What can I do if the surgeon is in another country?

Anonymous 22 Jan 2012 9:34 pm

I have pip implants & am waiting on an ultasound,i only spoke to the Harley Medical Group today to ask how much it would cost to replace they quoted me £5,040,i was gobsmacked they are still just worried about making money & i don't have this sort of money,should i sue????

Anonymous 22 Jan 2012 9:19 pm

I found out last week that I have PIP implants which I had in Feb 2009 at the Hospital group. I waited nearly 4 weeks for my results and felt sick to the stomach on receiving them. THG stopped using these implants early 2009, looks like I was one of the unlucky ones. I have been to see them and am booked to have a removal and replacement in Feb. I have seen too many stories that make me feel like I need to get them changed, although I haven't had any problems- that I am aware of!!!! The government have let us down by recommending removal and not saying that they should replaced free of charge like on certain European countries. Oh and offering for the NHS to remove free of charge and not replace. I don't want nothing now, especially after having it done because I was so flat chested. My dilemma now Is do I have the CUI or Natrelle at a £500 price difference. THG has offered replacement at a better rate than some but unfortunately I don't have the money and going to have to get a credit card. I do not feel like I have a choice :-(

michelle trethewey 21 Jan 2012 9:32 pm

I had P.I.P inplants november 2006 ,in Highgate clinic london with TRANSFORM. Was told they were the safest on the market ,and no risk of leakage, would sit like a jelly baby in two halves if split. Should only split with an air bag going off in car accident. My right breast is alot harder and rippling been back once couple of years ago, said it was because i was slim,not enough body fat. Also the left one has gone so soft feels like there is no inplant there anymore,can really squeeze it.
had to ring and pester ,took 3 weeks for transform to tell me ive got P.I.P inplants, they said if i had my surgery after 2005 i would not have as they stopped using them then , i had surgery late 2006. I read on there site only 108 women had them put in after this date out of 10,000 why? were they using them at all, they must have known by then, thats why they stopped. Want to charge me 2,650 for removal and replacement. Awaitng to see surgeon in FEB.I do not have the money, and think this is so unfair.

caroline 21 Jan 2012 11:56 am

My GP was only concerned about who would pay for an ultrsound, and It seems that it would not show up all problems anyway. Alex Karidis, my ps wants me to pay over 200.00 for an u/sound, but if it does not give the guarantee of a true picture whats the point - also what about problems in the future.
My implants are from 98, and I do not think I can trust anyone to be thruthful about when the substandard implants were 1st put into women.
Mr Ksridisis a Dr but also a businessman, so money matters to him, it is up to the Govement to make sure we are protected as business cannot be relied on.
It wiil still put money 1st, and we get softsoap anwsers to real worries

Lisa Jones 20 Jan 2012 10:45 am

I had my implants in January 2001 at Bodyline in Birmingham, I believe they are now The Hospital Group (can anyone confirm this). I don't know if they are PiP implants and can't find any paperwork now to check which make they are. I had the cohesive silicone implant as I was advised they came with a lifetime guarantee...I have suffered with numbness in my legs and fingers for many years since having them done, but have never really connected this with the implants...until now!! Would be grateful of any advise of how to obtain my records from the surgery as I am now gettng concerned due to haveing them for 11yrs.

Anonymous 19 Jan 2012 11:04 pm

Many of these posts convey the same feeelings of dread and horror that I felt when I found out last week that I have PIPs. The news at the time was that we are on our own if private cosmetic surgery was undertaken so I got started on solving the problem. I have an enlarged lymph node and having recently had cancer I was just beginning to wonder if the cancer had returned when the PIP news suggested there could be an alternative cause. I immediately organised an ultrasound scan, after which the doctor noticed irregularities and suggested an MRI scan (total £557). These scans confirmed a leak and that the lymph node contains silicone. My original Harley Street surgeon is still in business 12 years after the original op in November 1999 and I saw him Monday. Not sure how much of what he said is reliable but he has agreed to remove and replace the implants as well as removing the lymph node - at half normal price of £2800. As the original job was good, has caused no problems until recently and I've been happy with the implants, I have agreed to him doing the surgery soon. I am in the fortunate position of having savings on which to draw; nonetheless, I agree with other observations that I purchased a product in good faith which I was told would last around 15 years and I expected not to have suffered such worry or to be facing surgery becasue of a leak. I hope I will be able to reclaim costs and compensation. Thanks RJW for assisting.

Vicci 19 Jan 2012 7:40 pm

I had my implants in june2009 via courthouse clinic in brentwood. I suffered quite a bit from pain/ discomfort when trying to sleep on my side without a support bra on, and have for the last 2years stayed in my sports bra at night. i put most of it down to me being silly as i always think the worst and for not easing myself back into normal activity and tensing up when i had to use my muscles around that area. I didnt realise until my partner found one of my breast implant cards just before xmas and realised it was the brand on the news. I have now been in speaking with courthouse clinics after waiting 3weeks for a call back, and have now been referred to spires hospital in brentwood to have a scan next friday. i was going to be sent to highgate hospital in london where i had the surgery but due to the high volume of clients my surgen has, the spires hospital has agreed to take on some patients. I just hope everyone who has had them either via NHS or private gets all the help they need and support and that we can all be put at ease or informed asap.
Good Luck everyone and will keep everyone updated X

Anonymous 19 Jan 2012 7:09 pm

hey, i had my implants fitted in 2005 at spire hospital edinburgh. i have an appointment with another surgeon next thurs as the one that did mine is retired now!! im so scared as my left breast have had shooting pains through it for a while now and now im worried if its ruptured.has anyone been to see a surgeon or had a scan since all this came out with the pip implants??x

Anonymous 18 Jan 2012 6:19 pm

i recieved an email today from a surgeon that used to work for the company bodylooks i used back in 2005. he said its very likely i have the PIP implants as the company were using them when i had my surgery. I dont have my scan till 8th march but to be honest i no my body and these implants arent rite. i dont have a clinic company or surgeon anymore as they have all vanished!!! all i have is paperwork any advice on if there is anything i can do x

Anonymous 17 Jan 2012 9:17 pm

I had my implants fitted in 2008 and I know that they are PIP.Naturally I am concerned,but I don't think that there is any reason for panic or paranoia!!
I'd appreciate it,if you kept me informed.Thanks!

Lora 17 Jan 2012 7:43 pm

I had the soya bean which had to be removed back in 2000 I had mine replaced at highgatehospital . By a mr shear I believe he was south African . Did any else have the op done by this man ?. And if so what implants do you have? I'm waiting to ask highgatehospital what implants I have . And have to wait till tomorrow

Anonymous 17 Jan 2012 5:09 pm

Had pip implants back in 205 am haveing ultrasound this monday if they have ruptured and i am left with a long term healthproblem because of these implants would i have a case ..how can this be proved? (as I have various health problems since Implants and also more serious ones ie have very bad heart/chest pains numbness and slight paralyses of left arm ,spasms in hands etc have had ecg etc but they couldn't find anything)...there are lot of weomen allso describeing same symptoms)My doctor says that the nhs /hospitals might take bloods in future to test etc

Yvonne 17 Jan 2012 1:41 pm

I had my implants in September 2005 in Spain, which cost 4,000 euros & the Dr said they would have a life span of 10 years. I have just emailed him to find out if they are PIP & he has responded saying "yes" but he understood they only have problems with implants done over the last year??. He has said that I should make an appointment for a scan every 6 months. I will do this but if there is a problem would I have recourse against him for costs as I now reside in Uk & further more I had the implants because I have terrible stretch mark all over my breasts & filling them out improved them, so, more ops would mean even more scars! This would cause be great distress.

Lynn jones 17 Jan 2012 1:21 pm

Like a couple of others, I had trilucent in 1998, had to have the taken out after bad reports about them. In 1999 I was given what was supposed to be one of the best implants on the market......( what a flippin joke).
For years I have suffered pain, I have creasing and points sticking out.... Looks like I have a box inside one breast.

The clinic (NICSO) went bust, and the surgeon was removed from the register. I feel so down about this whole mess.

Anonymous 17 Jan 2012 9:36 am

like you i also had mine done at bupa but in washington, mine are pip implants my surgeon is no longer there, i have had my free mri scan last week and have been told if they have ruptured they will contact me within the week in the mean time i have a consultant apointment next week to discuss my concerns and the removal and replacement of them, i cant wait i also have constant pins and needles in my arm and the fatigue like you as well as back pain and stifness ! i now feel sick with worry just waiting and i am so stressed its unreal !

Anonymous 15 Jan 2012 8:57 pm

I have had my surgery with bupa Leeds and don't know what type of implants I had , I rang them and was also told they have never used pip implants in their hospital , however they did not tell me what type I did have and my paperwork seems to be lacking this information. I told them I often get pain in my right breast , have had unexplained fatigue for more than 3 years now and have been back and forth to the docs for muscle stiffness. Pins and needles ect ....no explanations ..the woman said my surgeon no longer worked there but she has booked me in free of charge to see a surgeon on Monday because of my concerns. I am going to ask to see my paperwork and if not I will out it into writing as knowing what type I've had seems so important right now .bupa now spire have issued a statement on their website which proves their hospitals did use them .

Y Michael 15 Jan 2012 5:29 pm

I had my pip implants at highgate private hospital who claim on their website to offer patients with pip implants scans, removal & replacement if necessary soooo light at the end of my tunnel you'd think - NOT!!! I called to discuss my concerns & was told that aparently all plastic surgeons are independant & not employed by Highgate Hospital therefore I should contact my GP with my concerns despite the pip proposal & the fact they promote their surgeons on their website.. im confused then on who that notice is intended for ??? NO ONE .. it's damage limitation for potential customers I think, they dont give a dam about ex-patients. Somethinbg has to be done to make clinics accountable because i paid my money at highgate and some-one there accepted it - I didn't pay the surgeon!!

People beware, i suppose this was a disaster waiting to happen in the world of private and plastic surgury :(

april wilkinson 15 Jan 2012 4:12 pm

i have wrote on here a few times ,i have decided that after speaking to three gps and getting no where with them ,no scan no nothing......to book in for a private scan ,its costing me nearly £400 .having it done tommorow,getting very worried now.im wondering why some gps are concerned about their patients and refer them .where mine have no concerns at all.

Anonymous 14 Jan 2012 9:17 pm

Has anybody had implants put in through the NHS and found out they are PiP's? I had mine put in in 2003 by the NHS in the UK but now live in Holland and i'm no longer registered at my doctors in the UK so i have no idea if i have these defect implants or if the NHS even used these :(

Maria 14 Jan 2012 7:02 am

I had my implants done in February 2000 at bodyline Birmingham, part of the national centre for cosmetic surgery group (now the hospital group). I got in contact with them a year or so ago after reading about pips, apparently mine are made by eurosilicone but i am not convinced. Before I had the surgery they showed me the type of implants they were going to use, they were exactly like pips made from a jelly baby type material.

Anonymous 13 Jan 2012 8:31 pm

after speaking to 3 different gps yday they refused to send me for a scan ,even though i have 2 lumps under my armpit.so now am booked in for a private scan costing £400 or more.im disgusted with my gps as they know my sister had her breast off due to a rapid cancer

Claire 13 Jan 2012 10:35 am

I had implants done in nov 2001, my harley street clinic was taken over in approx 2002/2003 and i have no record of which clinic i was with or which clinic took them over....so can not locate my paperwork... Therefore not sure if i have pip implants....if anyone knows of a harley street clinic like this please could you advise of clinic name.....as extremely worried.

As my implants are now over 10 years this gives me greater concern as they are now more likely to rupture. I have spoken to my gp but have been told they can not help me and that i need to contact my surgeon!

Im not sure if theyhave ruptured, my boobs Still feel the same although i do sometimes feel a warm sensation.....espeiall nder my armpits.....not sure if im being paranoid but with no help from my gp i am desperatly trying to track down my surgeon....any leads would be greatly appreciated.

Jodie 13 Jan 2012 10:25 am

My Post is in Reply to ALEXA POOLE 1 Jan 2012 5:20 pm

I’m Jodie I too had My Breast Augmentation in May 2010 through Rubicon Medical Limited. I paid £3195 and the operation was carried out by a Dr Frati at Highgate Private Clinic in London.
I was also offered 3 years after care through Rubicon Medical who as I said have now gone into Voluntary liquidation.

I am so angry and upset to here that Rubicon Medical has now gone into voluntary Liquidation, this happened in the middle of December 2011.

It is obvious too as to why they did this, they were fully aware of the consequences of them cutting corners using the cheap, toxic unsafe PIP implants and realised they would have all their customers returning for re-ops and this would cost them money. So rather than carry out the after care that they offered when we paid them they decided it better for them to just close down. So a company offering after care means nothing at all.

I’ve tried to contact them and retrieve my notes but have had no luck.

I am unsure if I have had PIP Implants.
I visited my GP in Essex on Monday 9th of January 2012 to discuss my worries concerns and the anxiety of not knowing what I have inside me, he was very understanding and forwarded my concerns to my local NHS hospital.
To My surprise I’ve had a hospital letter through already to have a scan at the Breast Unit of my local NHS Hospital.

My scan is due on the 24th of January 2012. This is the fastest hospital appointment that I've ever been given. My local NHS hospital must be more aware of the danger of the PIP implants than we know.

I was gob smacked that they contacted me that quickly, it was a matter of 3 days.

A scan is all well and good but it can also un cover all matter of un-known things like rupture or leaking etc.

If this is the case where do I stand on getting them replaced if the company is in liquidation?

Please Help

Jodie

Marie 13 Jan 2012 9:42 am

I had pip implants put in June 2005 by transform. I had researched to find a reputable clinic/surgeon as I had heard so many horror stories of cheap foreign boob jobs. I wasn't offered a choice of implants Just that they wouldn't rupture unless I had a car crash and even then they were like "jelly babies" no leaking! At the being of 2010 I noticed they were looking misshaped and I was getting aches and pains. I looked online to see if anyone had similar probs and found out that there were concerns about pips. I rang transform and got an appointment to see my surgeon. “Nothing wrong with the implants, it's your age (41) your skin, you must have got fat then thin (I hadn't changed weight in the 4 years).he also said if I had them replaced they would look just as bad as it's my body not the implants. I could have a scan but I would have to pay and finally regarding the possible faulty implants “if you bought a car from a dealer and there was a fault it wouldn't be the dealer’s problem, it’s the manufactures fault. “I am the dealer!!! I was so disgusted. I had a cancer scare soon after and had to go through a major op so couldn't deal with it for the next few months. I got the all clear from cancer and 2 months after my laparotomy I remortgaged to pay my debts from being off work sick and to have my implants removed and replaced (they look completely normal). I had one of the worse years ever in 2010. Transform treated me like a pest rather than a patient. I didn't have the energy to fight anymore my stress levels were sky high .I was just happy to be cancer and pip free. Why should I be saddled with the debt for an op I shouldn't have needed. Can I claim back the cost of my second op (with another surgeon/company?

Kay Tracy Washford 12 Jan 2012 5:41 pm

I had my breast implant operation at the Birkdale Clinic Crosby in May 2005 all was well untill late 2009 when my left breast was giving me so much pain I was constantly popping the pain killers I also had pins and needles and weakness in my arm I had a MRI and it shown I had fluid in my lymph nodes but the impant was still in the pocket and as the pain has subsided the surgeon decided to leave it but every few month the pain kicks off again and can last weeks. in June 2011 the left side of my body went weak and I was rushed in hospital with what they thought was a stroke and then tests for MS but Doctors still have not got to the bottom of my symptoms I still have weakness in my left arm and leg and sometimes need to use a walking stick and I am tierd and loss of energy, I am still waiting to here from the Clinic to see if my implants are PIPs as if they are then its possible that they have leaked and this is why I have ill health.

tracey podmore 12 Jan 2012 1:09 pm

hi kirsty.ive just been reading your notes on stomach acid that you,ve been getting. its funny cos i cant eat or drink anything without feeling sick and stomach pains.also i gave birth to my daughter 3yrs ago now.and from 2wks old she started throwing all her milk stright back up after ever feed.the problem got worse and was told by my health visitor and gp that it was just colic.for 10mths she just got worse and worse she would scream and sream from the min she got up to going to bed.at 10ths old i demanded for my daughter to be seen by sheffield childrens hospital she was put to sleep and camera into her stomach and found to have severe stomach ulcers. the doctors had never heard of anyone getting them so young and could understand where they had come from.once she had been given medication she was like a different child. but now it makes me think because ive got the pip impants and breast fed her has it got something to do with that. has anyone else reading this been through anything simular. i was the first to write on here and its shocking to see what other ladies in my situation are putting.hope this all gets sorted for us all

Anonymous 12 Jan 2012 12:21 pm

I know I have PIP implants fitted by Transform on 26th June 2006. I know my surgeons name,hospital where op performed and my batch numbers. I have contacted them and I am awaiting a reply.

Gaynor 12 Jan 2012 7:26 am

I rang Transform on Monday 09.01.12 and they called me back last night 11.01.12... I found out that I to have PIP implant's fitted I was told by the lady that called me that I will now have to wait for Transform to contact me to make an appointment for a consultation an a scan... You want a bet? I wil be badgering them every day until I get my consultation... They will get fed up of me before I get fed up of ringing them...

I am disgusted that I had to call the clinic to ask the question instead of them informing me... When I paid for my operation (uplift & Implant's) I didn't dream that this would happen to me let alone any other woman here in the UK...

I have rippling in my left implant, yes I am constantly tired an I do get pins an needles on the odd occasion... I never worried about this before but now I am at my witt's end as to what will be the outcome of all of this...

I do believe that my implant's should be removed and replaced free of charge I also believe that I should be compensated due to the stress an trauma I am now suffering... I to feel like I am a walking time bomb that does not know when I will explode...

I hope that each and every one of us ladies comes out of this horrible mess positively although we all know we will have to deal with the negatives along the way...

vickycoco 11 Jan 2012 10:31 pm

I had my implants april 2005, with The Hospital Group at Highgate Hospital.
2 months ago I had concerns with the implants, causing pain and loss of nipple sensation for the 1st time in 7 years!! I joked with my boyfriend then, that the bloodly things are probably leaking.
Little did I know!!!! Ive returned my form on their web page, and am now having a very anxious wait to see if I have the PIP.

Victoria Williams 11 Jan 2012 7:10 pm

I found out this morning I have PIP implants which i had inserted 4yrs ago.I am 5mths pregnant at the moment and im out of my mind with worry as can not afford to pay to have replacements.Surgicare which is where i got my breasts done has gone into liquidation.Where do i stand with me being comcerned for myself and my unborn baby?

Russell Jones & Walker 11 Jan 2012 5:29 pm

Thank you all for your comments. We have sent an e-mail to all those who have registered with advice and next steps as well as helpful tips to gain a solution. If you have not registered please visit www.rjw.co.uk/pip

Joanne N 11 Jan 2012 4:42 pm

I had implants in 1998 at Bupa Leeds with Dr Batchelor. The hospital is now Spire and I rang them last week to be told by Dr Batchers secretary at the time (he is now retired) that he nor bupa Leeds ever used PIP....I just hope they are telling the truth. No one seems to know for sure how long these PIP's have been available.

Anonymous 11 Jan 2012 4:39 pm

went to the doctors yesterday (10/1) after finding 2 lumps in my armpit. I was told by the GP that they are probably cysts, and she didnt think they were ruptured. however she wouldnt send me for an MRI scan to confirm this. was told to go back in 2 weeks if the lumps hadnt gone for a blood test. Today it was finally confirmed by surgicare that i had PIP 365 implants. What now! how do i get a scan done?

Morgan 11 Jan 2012 2:29 pm

As per Jo and Anon 6 Jan 10:54 I also has Trilucents (in 1997) that were recalled in 2000 and replaced with PIPs. I had the same surgeon Mr.Singh and hospital - Highgate Hopsital for both procedures. I think the Harley Street Surgery has either moved from 103/105 Harley Street as this is now a dentist, or has been renamed.
I'm unsure if I am covered as these implants were pre 2001, part of another settlement and past their guarantee of 10 years??? As they are now coming up to 12 years old, I'm extremely worried that they have deteriorated and replacement surgery will be complicated.

Anonymous 11 Jan 2012 12:54 pm

I am getting a mri scan next week arranged through bupa, i felt the phone calls wernt doing anything so i emailed them asking to see a certain consultant my problems and concerns etc and also stated that the bupa now spire website does state free replacements whether ruptured or not and same day got a phone call and aranged the scan in only a few days ! so be persistant !

Anonymous 11 Jan 2012 11:32 am

I had implants in Nov 2003 by Transform at Northgate hospital. I am certain they are PIP but have to wait 10 days for them to confirm. Had no problems but now worried sick. Please keep me updated. Thanks.

Anonymous 10 Jan 2012 1:21 pm

hi i had inplants back in 2006 at the belverdere the inplants were called perthese, and i am not sure if theses are pip if anyone has got any info on these brand wether they are pip please let me no. thanks

jodie 9 Jan 2012 10:47 pm

I had my implants done at transform in 2003, my mother had them done on the same day and a friend of mine a month earlier, we all have P.I.P implants and i'm very worried i have a young son and i'm so angry to think i put my life in their hands and could not only have damaged my own health but i could have possibly damaged the health of my child whilst breast feeding, i feel that the response by these clinics is unacceptable and inhumane, they may blame the government but i feel as i did not put my trust in them nor did i pay them that's it's transorms responsibility to look after it's patients, i'm sure even if they had offered free implants but advised this was industrial gel not one of us would be writing on here about having had this done,i put my trust and faith in this company as they assured me they were the best and that i was in safe hands, now to find i have this foreign object in my body makes me very angry and concerned this is not the service i expected or paid for, how can they not take responsibility for what they have done, i want mine out and replaced and i do not intend to pay as i don't feel anyone who is going through this experience should pay for a mistake that is not our doing, i accept this is not a direct fault of any of these doctors or surgeries personally however they have an obligation to correct this error after all we are the paying customers and we did not get what we paid for, i feel sad for everyone having to deal with this situation at present and hope these companies see sense as reading in the paper that some people just can not afford to have these removed and replaced no matter how high their anxiety saddens me this is morally wrong on all levels

kirsty 9 Jan 2012 8:33 pm

Hi just been reading all the comments, i've just found out i have PIP implants so i contacted the hospital group and had to fill a form out on their website, so just gotta wait for them to get bk to me!!
i'm worried now as i had them done in 08 and since that i've always had a burning feeling in both and i always feel sick and tired, i went for a scan on my stomach and that came bk with too much acid in my stomach so that is the reson when i'm always feeling sick does anyone think the 'acid' could have anything to do with a rupture? any info is welcome thanks

Russell Jones & Walker 9 Jan 2012 5:53 pm

Thanks for all your comments. We are putting some information together for you which should help and we will be in touch shortly

Anonymous 9 Jan 2012 5:37 pm

I had my inplants done in 09 by surgicare I have had no pain or anything butIi am flightened because of what I read and hear on the news they are PIP and today I went to the doctors with my concerns they told me the NHS would remove them but wouldnt renew them, this has frightened me more as I took extra out on my mortgage for the job done and have had lots more confidence since then, I dont want this to be taken away but I also dont want to be frightened and feel sick all the time with worry of what may happen if I keep them, do you think I should just wait, get in touch with surgicare or have them removed full stop. Im so anxious as well as all the rest of you

Anonymous 9 Jan 2012 4:58 pm

Hi Message for Julie, I had mine done at Belvedere fitted by Mr Khan, he has admitted using PIP implants from 2003 to end of 2004, I have an appointment next week, receptionist said he will see me but will not be responsible for removal replacement. I am seeking legal advice,

suzanne L 9 Jan 2012 7:59 am

So pissed all ladies in australia with pip implants .I'm one and we have to do something .So many of us have had problems and no one is doing any thing cause then they would be saying there is a problem .we all need to start contacting a currant affair on channel 9 if we all start going to the same place .Then they may be forced in to a corner .The hot line was a waste of time telling us to see our doctor .Our Doctors have all ran for the hills as they still want us to pay they dont want to be out off pocket .So this rate of rupture they are going by is wrong soooo wrong .....Come on girls lets stand together and try and do something as by our selfs nothing will happen .They told us they were safe and they still are saying the samething . There Not

Von 9 Jan 2012 12:59 am

I had my implants in 2008 from a private clinic in Nottingham & even my surgeon was French! He worked in Paris every two weeks & here in the UK in between. I have just looked at the paperwork from my operation only to discover yes they are indeed pip ones! I don't think I've been taking this situation seriously & don't even know the situation/risk factor? I have no current problems with my breasts but have had a slight burning sensation in my left breast a few times. Any advise ? (apart from ringing the company tomorrow)

Anonymous 8 Jan 2012 9:38 pm

Hi, I had my implants done in 2000 rang Transform last week and still waiting for them to come back to me confirming whether they are PIP. Going to ring them tomorrow because I'm very anxious and the more I read the more worried I become. My right breast is very hard and uncomfortable, odd shaped and I guess possibly ruptured. Not sure where I will stand with the length of time I've had them, but I want them out ASAP.

Anonymous 8 Jan 2012 7:16 pm

i had mine done in 2007 and they are pip implants thank god they seem to be ok but i want to know where i stand in terms of sueing and would i be entitled to legal aid? Thankyou...

Lezanne 8 Jan 2012 6:38 pm

Hi
I had mine done over 8 years ago with the hospital group. I have had no problems but now reading about pip implants am concerned. I have checked on their website and it states that they will replace free of charge only if the are ruptured. What happens if you wants them replaced.I , as others won't want to wait until they do rupture. It seems very unfair if we have to pay for a replacement of implants if the company have used implants that are not safe. The web site of the hospital group states that they have not used them since 2009. Does anyone know where I would stand legally if I wanted them replaced and feel the company should be responsible for the cost

Anonymous 8 Jan 2012 3:49 pm

I had my pip implants done in June 2004 by The Harley Medical Group. I rang the HMG on Wed and was told that one of their consultants would see me but they would only send me away again to have a scan done first. I have been to see my GP and have been referred to the 'breast clinic' who will be aqble to do this scan for me.
I suffer with breast tenderness on a regular basis but have always put this down to hormones, etc. I am a little worried too as I had chronic chest pains a few years ago and went to A&E and was x-rayed and was told it was probably pleurisy, this happened again a year later and I can't help wondering if it was now connected to my implants. I am also a type 1 diabetic so already dealing with a long term health problem.
I have completed the online form and would like to be kept updated.

Tracy 8 Jan 2012 11:47 am

I had my implants done in Nov 2004 by Transform and i'm very concerned that they are not made of medical grade silicone especially as my baby is only 8 weeks old and was initially breast fed.I haven't experienced any problems to date but that doesn't take away any of the concerns i have about having a non-medical substance in my body.

Even if the implants were offered to be replaced for free there is still the issue of more surgery and the recovery time. I've just recovered from an emergency c-section and have a baby to look after therefore more surgery isn't ideal.

I also think everyone with these implants should have been contacted by whoever fitted them not left to find out through watching the news.

julie cook 8 Jan 2012 9:59 am

had my boobs done in 2000, at belverdere clinic in kent. they are pip implants.please keep me up dated thanks very much.

Anonymous 8 Jan 2012 3:48 am

I had PIP inplants in 2002. A ruptured was found through ultrasound 2009 and I was told nothing needed to be done. I have sufferred breast pain and years of painful lumps and cysts under my armpits since and am hoping these lumps are not related to industrial grade silicon leaking into my body. I live in Pilburra WA Australia and will have to fly with a carer to Perth for surgeory. I'm assuming medicare will cover all costs involved as I cannot afford the approx $12000 plus follow up and our Govmnt has stated all PIP implants with ruptures must be removed. This is an admission of knowledge of a faulty medical product they originally approved and you would think they must now bare the costs involved in rectifying. The TGA in Australia did not want me to file a medical device complaints form as "They are already aware of the problem", yet on media announcments they say they have only had 39 cases of rupture reported to them. They haven't counted me in as yet. I was quoted $575 to have ultrasounds and lymph tests done next week and told my GP to ask the pathology to waive the fee under hardship or I wont have it done. As I'm now being tracked by national implant register who will inform TGA, whether they like it or not, I'm sure no pathologist or GP will risk turning down any Australian woman who already knows she has a ruptured PIP because of refusal to pay for tests. Our Health Minister needs to make it clear medicare will cover all costs involved.

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 11:57 pm

I had pip implants in june 2009, i made sure i researched hard for the best clinic as i had been thinking about having breast enlargement for a long time but never had the courage to go ahead with it, so after a long hard think and research i decided to go with the highly reputable (or so i thought) harley medical group. exetremely happy after having them inserted, no problems with them, altho i did have chest pain a few wks ago, of which i thought was just chest pain, went promptly as quickly as it came, but now since the pip scandal, im wondering whether that was the cause? I recently married and was hoping to start a family soon, but now i feel i cant because of the implants, i want them removed and replaced asap as this is now holding me back, im frightened the implants will cause problems to an unborn child. if harley medical refuse to help, and i certainly dont have the money to b paying for all this again, could another private health care help.me? or the nhs? Im yet to speak to my gp and book an uss. please advise. many thanks.

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 11:51 pm

i had my breasts enlarged by the nhs as i had no breast tissue ans was basicaly like a boy i had them done in april/may 2010 i dont no if they would have used the pip implants iv tryed calling but can never get through im worrierd as iv had nothing but pain and trouble since last summer how will i no if i need them replacing.thanks

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 10:35 pm

i have recently found out to my utter horror i have pip implants.i had them done by the hospital group in 2008 i havent had any problems as yet by im worried sick about them rupturing in the furture i have two young children and am now a single parent i can not aford to get them removed and replaced.these were meant to be safe for
life.i have a appointment with surgeon to check for ruputre if they have ruptured i can get them replaced free of charge but if not im stuck with these inferiour implants.why has the goverment not done more to help people its so unfair.what happens if my sugeon refuses to remove them can i make a claim ?i just want to feel safe i would rather not have another major operation but i think all women fitted with these pip implants deserves peice of mind and should have them removed the goverment has really let us down

Sarah 7 Jan 2012 7:46 pm

I had mine at Cambridge private hospital in 2003 with dr erian. I don't know what I have in me :s the hospital has closed down and on dr erians website it seems a little cagey about pips. How do i find out if that hospital used them back then? Thanks

Lynne davidson 7 Jan 2012 6:12 pm

i had pip implants inserted in 2003,i had problems from the on set with my right hand breast,it just didnt look quite right,and felt quite ripply when i ran my finger over the implant,on the inside.i went to my surgeon who assured me they were fine..and to visibly see what i saw,i would practically have to do a hand stand!!well i noticed it.anyway months passed and i got used to them,but often would get pains in my right hand breast,so 2 years ago i went back to transform and got them checked,and was told they were fine and hadnt leaked etc,i even mentioned about my pains and twinges in my right arm.now of course i am very worried,and am waiting to see what i do next,transform phoning me on monday.cant believe that i had complained from day one and nothing was done!!and then again 2 years ago..what if this silicone has been running through me all this time???

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 5:23 pm

mine were also done at bupa, the surgeon is no longer there! rippling is terrible as is the pins n needles in my arm all the time they are pip inplants was told last week, waiting to see consulatant they havent rang me back so going to chase it up on monday. also suffer constant back problem all over my back stiffness in the night is unbareable ! wasnt happy when i got them done as the scars were huge and the pain and swelling in bertween was terrible i actually thought i was butched !

Joanne 7 Jan 2012 12:09 pm

I had my breasts enlarged in Nov 2004 by Transform and I have been informed that they are PIP. Although, as of yet, I have not had any problems with them I am very concerned and anxious about the fact that I have industrial grade silicone in my body which is contaminated with fuel additives and window sealant! Especially as I am currently pregnant!

I was not given a choice when it came to what make of implant Transform would use in me and I believe that we should all be able to get these replaced and that we shouldn't have to wait until something goes wrong and we become ill! Please advise - thanks

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 12:42 am

Dear sirs, I have found it both comforting and concerning to see other women with the same fears as myself and to read your advice. I would say however I have tried since the 23rd December to secure an ultra sound and have had two apointments with my GP and I keep being told to go privately. This is financially impossible and the stress of this has become all consuming. If remove and replace is not covered by the government or the private sector there is nothing I can do. I am also concerned at the time it will take to book a surgery slot should we be fortunate enough to have the surgery covered by another party as thousands of us will be desperate to book the surgery.

Bev 7 Jan 2012 12:27 am

OMG
I had my inplants fitted nearly 15yrs ago at bupa in leeds. I am so horrified to hear all your illnesses.
A fews weeks after my op I returned to bupa for a check up and I told my surgeon i was concerned about how rippley the where. He told me it was what makes them safer!!!!
Over the last 10yrs I have been to doctors all the time for feeling tired, numbness in my legs, pins and needles in my hand, really bad back and neck pains, lumps under my arms etc etc The list is endless.

I am seriously worried as like I said, I have been suffering these ailments now for 14yrs.

I have got to wait till Monday to find out if I have PIP inplants inside me. But I am 100% sure I have :(

Has anyone else had PPI inplants in for 10-15yrs??

I wont be able to sleep untill the out:(

Anonymous 7 Jan 2012 12:16 am

Like many other women here just find out I hav PIP implant aswell very upset got it done in 2008 with Rubicon medical that now gone bust got appointment with my GP next week I am very worried sick at the moment i can't even afford to replaced them. Can u please keep me upto date with this PLEASE!!!!!......

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 11:13 pm

Does any1 know when the PIP implants first started being used, i had implants in 1999 but can only find a receipt with the national centre for cosmetic surgery writen on it, have phoned them 4 advice but just got told 2 fill in the form on the hospital group page....

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 7:58 pm

i wrote on here last night.i have been trying to get in touch with the clinic who did my implants with no luck.have found out that they went into liquidation after i had them done.so if anyone has managed to get in touch with surgicare manchester could you please let me know how its gone with them

Kirsty 6 Jan 2012 7:27 pm

Harley medical group used pip implants in 2008 and was told they did up until 2010 when the pip implants were recalled.
I'm extreamly unhappy and dissapionted. I wanted the best implants and care possible so went to what I thought was the 'best' company in uk. I was also told during consultation that I wouldn't find better safer implants than those that they use. I just can't believe how much further from the true my surgon was.
I only hope being such a large company they'll take responsibility and remove and replace for all those women with these implants.
Good to see Germany following the french government perhaps this will add pressure to uk to enforce private clinics to replace

angela stansfield 6 Jan 2012 7:00 pm

hi, i had pip implants done in 2004. they are pip's. i saw a consultant and am having them removed and replaced next month. this is costing nearly £5.000 . would i be able toclaim any money back from the hospital where i had them done in the first place? thank you .

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 6:20 pm

I had inplants put in by transform in 2001 I paid £3.700 for a cohesive gel being told they had a life time guarantee I am worried sick as I have had many health problems and of course I'm now frightened these inplants r the cause
I'm worried sick like everyone else as I don't have the money to be able to get them checked or taken out
I can't think straight and I don't know which way to turn, have they been leaking, what's the signs
Please help
Many thanks

Verity 6 Jan 2012 5:49 pm

I had mine done at the hospital group formally known as body line??? As every1 else am extremely worried, I have tilled in the form online but am awaiting my notes to see if I had them. But my mind is working overtime as although iv had no pain, mine have definitely shrank, iput this down to having 3 children. But when. Was pregnant with my third child I was referred to hospital because I had blood leaking from my nipple?? Is this a sign. ALS I'm now concerned my first son who I breastfed, was in hospital for 5 days with an unknown condition and I'm panicking it could be something he took from me. Maybe far fetched, but who knows..?? What's the average waiting time for your notes from the hospital group?? And I'm very nervous now, as before I had children I could afford this procedure, now I'm in my own with 3children and don't see yi shud fund sum thing. Was told had a lifetime guarente

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 5:45 pm

I had beast Enlargement in Jan 2001 and have been told that I have PIP implants inside me, I am extremely worried about these, as the thought of industrial silicon inside me, makes me feel sick. I had the implants done by Dr Viel at the Harley Medical Group and want to know where I stand, I cannot afford to get them replaced as I am now retired. How do I get help?

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 4:07 pm

I had implants in August 2003 at The National Centre for Cosmetic Surgery in Birmingham, now owned by The Hospital Group. I have registered with them today by phone and e-mail and now have to wait 2-4 weeks to find out if the implants were PIP. Really anxious, my boobs haven't looked or felt right for years, like others I am not in a financial position to replace them if they are considered dangerous. I will say this though, my Mum lives in France and they do not mess about on health issues, if they say they are a problem, then I believe them, they would not remove them and foot the bill without adequate concern. What a nightmare and worry for us. How can this have happened? Money grabbing merchants! Keeping everything crossed for a positive outcome for everyone, just the waiting game now....

Zoe 6 Jan 2012 3:16 pm

I had implants in February 2007 and waiting to hear back as to what type. In feb 2011 I went to the GP as my left breast had gone saggy with funny thing sticking out-I am yet to receive an appointment from my surgeon. Please could you keep me updated on latest info.
Thankyou

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 2:48 pm

PLEASE KEEP ME UPDATED. I HAD IMPLANTS IN 2007 VIA RUBICON MEDICAL WHO HAVE CONVIENTELY GONE BUST ON 27/11/2011
MY DR HAS REFUSED TO SEND ME FOR A SCAN DESPITE ARGUING ABOUT MY HEALTH. WITH OTHER SYMPTOMS I HAVE EVEN THE DR THINKS ONE MAY HAVE RUPTURED. WHAT SHOULD I DO

Gemma 6 Jan 2012 11:37 am

I have pip implants which were done on the 7th feb 2005, I've had no problems but feel really anxious and upset that this inadequate substance has been allowed to be put in my body,
I'm also 4 months pregnant worried sick n angry that anything could potentially be leaking through to my unborn baby and that my choice to breast feed has now been taken away !
Where do I and all the other innocent women stand who have had this product put in our bodies after putting our faith in the professionals we had chose to do their jobs and the government which governs the certification of these things, surely there is no way we should have to foot the bill.

Stacey Hogg 6 Jan 2012 10:57 am

Had my implants fitted in 2007 with Birkdale clinic in Rotherham. When i rang they confirmed by looking through my medical records that i had been fitted with PIP's. When i asked where i stood with replacement i was told that the company had gone into liquidation in 2009, and had been take over by their company who decided to keep the Birkdale name. So this meant they had no legal obligation to do a replacement free off charge. Although they would be more than happy to quote me for new ones (lucky me). I'm not sure where to go from here as i would have thought any company using the same name, and still having my medical records would be liable for past clients. Could this be the case or would you suggest i start saving?

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 10:54 am

Like Jo I also had Trilucent implants because it was said they wouldn`t be harmful should they leak but they had to be removed FOC and compensation when we were all advised to have them removed. I was given silicone instead which I didn`t really want but to not replace would have been disfiguring. I am waiting to hear from clinic if PIP implants were used but Jo`s comment adds to my suspicion that the cheap PIP implants were used for Trilucent replacements. Has anyone else had Trilucent replaced and discovered they`ve got PIP implants? Also I`ve been back and forth to doctors past couple of years or so with suspected allergies / food intolerances but doc couldn`t find the problem so just advised an antihistamine tablet every day to cope with skin irritation. Just wondered if anyone else had similar problem?

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 10:42 am

kellie 6 Jan 2012 9:57 am

Hello i see there is alot of concerns of women with pip implants all over the country, especially today waiting on the right decision to have the implants removed AND replaced. I had my implants placed in may 2008, to be fair they have not caused any problems as im aware of.. but im even worried picking up the phone to ring harley medical team to ask them! :( but i have my details safe and it tells me on the card and paperwork that they are pip implants but not sure as yet were they wete produced.. if i find out that they are the faulty pip's, i will be fighting all the way. I had them in because i became ill and lost alot of weight, went from a size 14 to a size 4 in 3 months which therefore caused my breasts to have terrible excess skin and stretchmarks, also i was devestated on how i looked and it totally knocked my self confidence to the floor! now this is happening and i feel that women/men should have them replaced free of charge if you had them done in the uk, the medical teams in the uk reassures the safety of thier products and also claim to have insurance if anything went wrong with the implants, so as the medical practices provides them and places them in they the ones thats liable.. if a surgeon puts a foriegn organ or an operation goes wrong they pay out.. but most women/men had to pay alot of money to have this kind of operation and should expect the right treatment and respect from the medical team to have them taken out and replaced free of charge. I believe that they the ones that decided what product to use and put into the body, therefore they are liable?! fair enough if you had it done out of the uk and ur from the uk then the insurances would be different, if any.. thats the risk you take when you have it done outside of the uk?, even though i feel they should be taken out free of charge due to dangers of the faulty implants but to have them replaced by the uk i feel they should pay for. the goverment warned people for years the dangers on having this proceedure done abroad and people still opt for a cheaper alternative than paying full amount in the uk. But the extra payment you pay then should therefore cover the insuarance and the person is well imformed where and how the products are made and the experiance of the medical team and surgeon. Every woman have rigjts when the implants goes wrong but when it comes to this i feel that the most priority is for women who paid in this country to have them done fully and then women whom opted to do it out of the uk should pay to have them put back in. some people may disagree to what i say but i feel if you took the risk of having a foriegn operation other than the uk then these are the high risks you take on. I hope all women get the right decision today and the goverment take thier feelings into account not thinking on how much money it will cost. thanks kellie.

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 9:41 am

I had my implants done dec 2004 by transform I know from my doccuments that I have pip implants i have lumps and rippling on both breasts and a burning/stinging in my right breast I called transform last weds to arrange a review as per the advice on their website and was told I would be called within 5 working days I have just chased them up again as no phone cal only to give them the same info and be told i would be called back hopefully by the end of the day or early next week needless to say I am very anxious about my health and the financial implications if I have to have them replaced

kellie 6 Jan 2012 7:09 am

I had implants in 2007 @ harly st clinic, am unsure if they are pip, I contacted them and they said to write to them but they will have a back log.
I have no signs of rupture but am now worried sick. How can I retrive my medical notes for my implants asap? Will also book an ultrasound today.

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 7:07 am

emma leonard 6 Jan 2012 2:00 am

i have been having problems with my inplants for over two yrs i have just found two lumpsuner my right armpit pins and needles down my am and chest and neck pain.ive got rippling in both breasts and am allways feeling unwell and allways tired.i contacted the clinic where i had them fitted on wed to find out i have pips ive beenin total shock i cant eat or sleep and finding it very hard to bellive .i have five children to look after and we are all in total shock .the clinic have asked me2000 to have them removed and 3700 to have them replaced.i dont know which way to turn as i can not afford to pay.i feel like my life is on a timebomb .and to make things better i could be waiting weeks for a scan .

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 1:01 am

hi, had pip implants in 2000 (ruptured had scan) been advised i have no case due to the above date? in addition clinic wrote to all patients from 2001 onwards advising of problems, prior to that year, clinic didnt think it was important to let others make an inforemed choice! Who is responsible,clinic and pip or the later? PLease advise. .........

Regards

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 12:34 am

I had breast implants done in Germany in 2006! i dont know if they are pip implants yet as the clinic hasnt responded yet to my emails Dr Klaus walgenbach Bonn Germany! ive had pain in my right breast vertually since day 1!! ive had 2 scans because of the pain but docs said they looked ok! but i kno something is wrong cause the pain is in my armpit aswell now! really worried now weither ive had these implants or not!

Dee Riley 6 Jan 2012 12:22 am

Im freaking out rang dr today thinking I was overreacting(thinking he wouldn't have used them). My surgery was 2008 so I have to wait overnight for them to ring me tomorrow to get my file from a storage shed. But dr said he did use them at the time. Oh my god and worse is Australia seem to be downplaying it and I'm freaking out never even heard the 2010 stuff until today

Anonymous 6 Jan 2012 12:08 am

My sister and i had implants in 2003, the company We used explained how their implants were 'the best', as they charged £4000 each and could have had it done much cheaper by other companies we trusted they were telling the truth. They said the implants were the newest ones,bshould last a lifetime, safer, stronger & the filling is like Turkish delight do even if they split, it's totally safe to leave in, however it would take a high impact like a car crash to burst them!! Yeah right. What rubbish, I think it's nonsense that they were unaware that the manufacturer changed the implants without anyone noticing. Ours were meant to have several outer layers, surely someone noticed! These implants were not meant to ripple! I have rippling in both sides, my sister has an oversized painful breast, with pain and tingling down her arm. We have all suffered terrible trauma from this, and have to go under the knife AGAIN all because these companies wanted to make more profit!! That's what I think anyway. I'm really angry and upset... My kids are worried for me too. I work part time with 3 kids, how the hell am I going to get myself sorted without any help???

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 11:55 pm

I have PIP implants, I know this because I still have my paperwork from may 04 when I had them implanted, within a couple of weeks I had a 'severe virus' , had to have my left implant removed, 3months with a homemade bag of flour to make my breasts look equal!!!!! Very traumatic but only close family knew about it, then was told I had MRSA..... Couldn't work , antibiotics for 6 months.... Eventually had left implant replaced, all was ok for a couple of years then found a lump in my left armpit, my GP sent me for an ultrasound, CT scan CAT scan and an MRI scan which proved I have silicone in my lymph node, that to me proved that my PIP implant leaked, I now have 3 folds in my left breast giving it a misshapen look, I was told that my £5600 implant operation in 2004 was safe and cannot leak....I am living proof that it can and it has, don't give up girls, demand answers, I definitely am.

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 11:53 pm

I have pip plants and at the moment is in alot of pain as one has burst and one has moved I have appointment next week at Harley medical where. I had it done hope they will do somethink for me

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 11:52 pm

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 11:45 pm

Please, do keep us updated!
Thanks,
Elaine Webb

Kiera19 5 Jan 2012 10:37 pm

It has been confirmed that i had pip implants in 2004 with the 'famous surgeon' Alex Karidis'..

I have burning sensations in my left breast and in a certain area when you feel it, there seemd to be empty pocket(as my husband describes)

My surgeon woould not speak to me which is fine.. I was told to pay for a private ultra sound scan at his hospital for £280. which i feel is unfair. so i contacted my GP and they wont refer me because i went private. My circumstances have now changed after 8 years. I am no longer single, i have children and a husband that depend on me . I would be grateful of any advise
many thanks

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 10:33 pm

I had implants done by the NHS around 2003/4 I am unsure if the NHS used PIP implants but have been plagued with all sorts of problems including hardness in both breast, odd size and shape and encapsulation,

Emma 5 Jan 2012 10:21 pm

Pips were fitted by cosmetic surgery clinic : 100 Harley street in 2005, 5,000£. Luckily with Bupa who agree to pay for initial scan but if there is sign of rupture they will not continue to pay. So not sure what to do at that point. What the replaced whether ruptured or not!

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 10:13 pm

Had my implants in feb 2009, I believed I was paying good money for good quality implants at a highly respected company!
I have PIP implants to say I'm worried is an understatement.
I was unaware at the time of different standards of silicone otherwise I would of opted for better quality ones, (non were offered).
When I contacted the cosmetic company concerned & feeling sick to the stomach, I was advised to go see my GP for a referal for an ultra sound scan which I have done & now it's just a matter of waiting, unless they come back & tell me they're not prepared to do it as I had it done privately.
I want them out for peace of mind but could not go without implants, I have been mis-sold these implants as well as the company that carried out the procedure. Surely their insurance should cover this?

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 9:52 pm

Worried and wanting to know what to do....my concerns mirror al those outlined above by everyone else!!

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 9:21 pm

i had implants done in 2008. i went back twice because i didnt think my right one was done right. nothing was done .now i have phoned the clinic to ask them if they are the pip implants and im just being told to wait and see what the government says , they wont tell me if i have the pips or not.... i had chest pains pins and needles in my arms and went for a cardiac workout which was clear . i am wondering if that could be linked to the implants.. if so could i have a right to a claim for compensation.....

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 8:29 pm

I have just been informed I have pip implants they were done in feb 2007, I am otherwise feeling ok but would like to be kept updated thank you

Jo 5 Jan 2012 7:39 pm

I first had implants in 1998 - opting for Trilucent as they were "more natural" - made from soya bean oil. The first i heard they were unsafe was the headlines on the one 0'clock news in 2000. I had them replaced with silicone FOC and also compensation. Today I have searched for the paperwork relating to this procedure and to my utter dismay they were replaced with PIP. Am awaiting the announcement tomorrow.

SANDRA 5 Jan 2012 7:05 pm

Not sure if i have these implants. Had operation in 2007 at BMI Coventry. Waiting for a reply from them to see if they are PIP!

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 6:59 pm

I did have the same issue but I went to my doctor to sort it out. It turns out that they were ruptured and I am having to get them replaced. The clinic I went to said I had to pay and I have booked in but can't really afford it so I am looking to see if I can get some compensation. Hopefully I can as could do without paying out again.

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 6:55 pm

after leaving my earlier message today,about the rippling and pins and needles in my arm, i started looking more into problems with silicone inplants. i also found out that other problems can be caused like severe backache and stiffness which i have had chronic for 2 years and can hardly sleep due to pain wondering if this has been caused by inplants ? wondered if anyone else was having these problems ?

Russell Jones & Walker 5 Jan 2012 6:52 pm

For those people wishing to be updated please fill out the form at the bottom of the story above (follow the link at the end of the story)

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 6:51 pm

Please advise re updates

Amanda 5 Jan 2012 6:17 pm

I've contacted the Hospital group, have been told I gave wait
4 weeks to find out if I've had PIP??
Mine are Lumpy in one side , Rippling
Done in 2007

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 6:03 pm

I have dug through my paperwork & found that i have PIP implants. I phoned Surgicare and was told "not to worry" and that they could not offer me any advice at all! I asked if i should be having a check up /scan and they told me that they would not pay for it! I contacted my GP today who asked me to come straight in - he has examined me and now refered me to have a scan in hospital - My worry is that even if the implants have not ruptured - who is to say they wont in the future? It's like living with a time bomb inside you! And if they are ruptured, do they just remove them and leave you with nothing. I think its disguisting that surgery's themselves are not contacting their clients to inform them - they are dangerous and the issues need to be addressed!

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 4:08 pm

I've contacted the Hospital group, have been told I gave wait
4 weeks to find out if I've had PIP??
Mine are Lumpy in one side , Rippling
Done in 2007

Russell Jones & Walker 5 Jan 2012 3:09 pm

In response to some of your questions:

We are awaiting the recommendations from the government which are due out tomorrow. This should give us a much clearer idea of where we stand.

I would advise you to fill out the form at the bottom of the story. This is so that we have your contact details and we can keep you updated as to the position.

For those people requesting ultrasound scans we would suggest that you persist with your GP.

Once we know more about the risks we may be able to assist in making a claim but this is speculative at present until the true risks are known.

For the lady asking about implants from Australia we would recommend that you speak to an Australian Law Firm. As mentioned above we would recommend a firm called Slater Gordon who can be contacted on 00 61 3 9602 6888.

The lady that was asking about being pregnant and having an ultra sound scan we would expect that this is not an issue but with all medical questions we would suggest that you contact your GP to make sure.

We appreciate that this is a worrying time and be assured we will keep you updated as to your legal position.

Emma Henderson 5 Jan 2012 3:02 pm

I had breast implants in oct 2007, I have been experiencing pain and discomfort in my left breast since Oct 2011, at the time the pain started I had just had a baby and was breast feeding and unfortunately developed what was thought to be mastitus, my gp prescribed antibiotics as treatment, however after 4 types of antiobiotics the pain and discomfort has continued to date, I have visited my gp 3/4 times regarding this and he has today referred me to have an ultra sound to investigate. I am deeply worried and would like to be kept informed of new developments. Many thanks Emma

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 2:57 pm

i too have just found out that i have these pip inplants put in 2006 from a well know private health company, i have a lot of rippling and some pins and needles sensation in my left arm . i am awaiting an apt with the consultant and if they have ruptured will replace free of charge, but i am worried because if they have not ruptured i cant afford to pay for them to be taken out !

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 2:51 pm

I had PIP implants in Feb 2008 at a very well known cosmetic surgery group - i have always been very happy with the results aesthetically and knew the risks before i had them. I did all the research i could on the company and trusted them to use approved suppliers. I am now 3 months pregnant and petrified that my implants are or will become faulty, harming my unborn child. I can not be operated on and now have the stress of this situation to deal with. The Hospital group are currently claiming that if it turns out they are ruptured they will remove and replace them for free but this can not be done whilst i am pregnant. They have offered me an appointment with my surgeon but i had to be very insistant. I did my research and was told there was a 30 year guarentee on the product, i trusted that and clearly this has not been the case. This is negliable regardless of the reasoning behind the operations - reconstruction or not - i paid for a product that is faulty and can not be guarenteed for 30 years as its made from silicone intnended for sofa's! I am angry, upset amd most of all concerned for my child.
I am furious that they have allowed this to happen and agree that they should compensate those who are now living this nightmare of unknown. It was their responsibbility to ensure that they were using the approved products of which PIP clearly aren't and they should now recitify the problems and worry in full. What's worse is that its taking so long to clarify who had which implants - they should have written to all of us with PIP implants by now - how many thousands of women are blissfully unaware i wonder?

cb 5 Jan 2012 2:38 pm

does anyone know if i am able to have an ultra sound being pregnant i am mortified i have these implants and now wont be breast feeding :(

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 2:30 pm

I have just discovered that clinic I used in 2000 did use PIP implants but I have to wait 4-5 weeks to find out if I had them, do I still need to consult my GP and have an ultra sound scan?

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 2:16 pm

I would like to recieve further info please

Jo Smith 5 Jan 2012 1:58 pm

I am currently waiting to find out if my implants are pip, the well known clinic that did them are getting back to me within 5 working days, i am anxiously waiting. I have encountered severe pain in my boobs and also have lumps, the NHS cannot do anything due to the fact that i had them done privately. Even if my implants were removed, i am a single mother in no financial position to pay anything and i would be left with a G sized bra full of saggy skin. The clinics spokesperson claims that they are not a high enough risk to remove them for free and that if they did they would be out of business. Most women paid between 3 and 4 thousand pounds and the actual implants were purchased for £100. SCANDAL

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 1:48 pm

I found out yesterday that i have PIP implants. I was advised by the clinic that i should contact my GP and request an ultrasound scan. I have been in contact with my GP who have advised me that there has been no guidance given to them to refer patients for routine ultrasound scans and i should therefore contact obtain advice from the surgeon/clinic who did the surgery. Where do i stand with trying to get an ultrasound done? If no one is willing to refer me for an ultrasound then i have no hope in hell in getting the implants removed!!!!!!

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 1:40 pm

I've just been told I have got pip inplants and really really worried ,
This was confirmed from the hospital I had my surgery 7 years ago,
The company called nu life whent bust not long after I had them done were does this leave me ?????i managed to getting touch with the surgeon that done my operation and he wanted to charge me £50 for my medical record and £70 to see me ?? I'm in shock the high gate hospital where I had the operation said they have got a copy of my notes and are there for free of charge ??? I'm completely in shock and have problems with lymph glands I don't know where to turn or what to do

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 1:13 pm

Hi I had PIP implants in 2007 , went to what I considered the best clinic, The Harley Mecical Group, don't think I have a problem today but now feel sick with worry that at any time they could rupture ! With a silicon that should never have been put in implants...........just want them out .

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 1:01 pm

I had breast implanst in 2000, still unsure if there PIP as the clinic has closed. About 2 and half yrs ago my right breast was hard as a golf ball so was sent for needle test and MRI. MRI showed it had ruptured but still within a pocket and was asked wether i wanted it removed but that it was safe to leave. Rather than undergo surgery I have left it. My left breast is now like its mushed up and has lots of dimples. Is it still safe to leave them like this if they are PIP implants? should I be referred again by my GP?

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 12:48 pm

Hi - I have PIP implants that were fitted in 2008. I have an appointment next week with my GP to have them checked and get refered for an ultrasound. I don't know if they are ok or not but am extremely worrreid about it.

My issue is that I had them done in Western Australia and have now moved back to the UK. I have all the paper work - is this something you could assist with or is that not possible due to them being fitted in Australia?

Russell Jones & Walker 5 Jan 2012 11:19 am

The first thing that we would suggest that you do if you are concerned is to visit your GP. You can then ask to have an ultrasound which should show if the implant has ruptured. If you are unsure as to whether the implants that you have are PIP implants we would suggest that you contact your clinic and ask for conformation and access to the records. If you have not already I would fill out the form at the bottom of the story above so we have your details and are able to keep you informed.
We will await the decision from the Health Secretary following his review which should give recommendations on the next course of action.

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 10:06 am

I just found out that i to have pip inplants, i had mine done with a well known private health company, i am waiting for a phone call about what happens next, i have been told i will see a consultant and if it seems viable will have an ultra sound done and if found ruptured they will replace them free of charge. But what happens if there not, i feel like a ticking time bomb just waiting, i cant afford to have them replaced and to be honest they are very rippling and was told these ones dont ripple at the time of the consultation... The consultant no longer works there now. Where do i stand regarding replacing them if not ruptured ?

marie Bowker 5 Jan 2012 9:14 am

im not sure if my implants are pip but the company that did my procedure have come forward as being one of the companies, the Nuffield group. i have noticed a difference in shape and been in touch with my GP, as yet had not responce but had let it lie for some time as i have been dealing with my farther who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It has only been with this now hitting the news that my concerns have been brought forward. what do I now need to do??

thanks Marie

Anonymous 5 Jan 2012 9:10 am

How do i know if my implants have leaked?...Mine have been lumpy from day one...

Anonymous 4 Jan 2012 11:48 pm

My daughter recevied, as we now know, PIP implants in Jan, 2008, the Harley St. clinic where she went, is really not interested - at all! We are keen for her to have them removed & replaced ASAP, obviously! (So unbelievabley scarey!) Although, she hasn't had an ultrasound scan as yet, sorting that tomorrow hopefully - but, who on earth wants 'mattress grade silicone' in their body . . . .. ?!?! The surgeon who operated on her will remove & replace at a reduced cost - and, interestingly - the clinic would not agree to that, at the moment! So, that is really promising, thankfully.
But, do you think, if we go through with this at our cost now, we would be able to be re-imbursed, if the law changes, at a later date? We do understand, that it is not going to be an easy challenge. Thanks,

kerry 3 Jan 2012 8:46 pm

hi my sister had pip implants in 2008 and i am waiting to find out if the implants i had in 2007 were pip unsure what to do next ,but would like to be updated on any new developments thanks

Russell Jones & Walker 3 Jan 2012 5:42 pm

We would advise you to wait until the UK government decides what to recommend. If they support removal it is still unclear as to how this will be done and there is no guarantee they will pay for any replacements. If the Government supports removal then you may be able to pursue the clinic for compensation but much will depend on whether your clinic is still in business and/or we can identify an insurer to claim against. In the meantime if you have not already given us your details, please click on the link to the online form at the bottom of the story above and add the information in the form. We will then be able to keep you updated as to any new developments with your PIP implant issue.

Anonymous 3 Jan 2012 2:14 pm

I had implants in 2002 and am waiting for the clinic to get back to me to tell me whether they are PIP or not. They did tell me they were used at that clinic so its more than likely i have them. I have had discomfort in one breast and have had an ultrasound scan and an MRI but the doctor said these looked ok and he didnt know what these lumpy rifges were. This was is 2006 and i still get discomforn now and can still feel the lumps. I am worried now and would like to have them taken out or replaced but have 2 children now so cant afford it. Please could you advise me what to do if they are the PIP implants as i am so worried with having 2 very young children.
Many thanks
Jane

Anonymous 3 Jan 2012 2:13 pm

ALEXA POOLE 1 Jan 2012 5:20 pm

My sister and I both had Breast Augmentation on the 7th May 2008 with Rubicorn Medical Limited and the operation was carried out by a Dr Frati at Highgate Private Clinic.

Rubicorn has now gone into Liquidation.

I am unsure if I have had PIP Implants. I am going to request a scan from my doctor to see if the implants are leaking.

Where do I stand on getting them replaced if the company is in liquidation?

Thanks Alexa

Anonymous 31 Dec 2011 12:55 pm

I had cloverleaf branded pip implants start of 2001, I have always had slight discomfort on and off to my left breast, however no lumps or major changes.

Now ten years on I have considered an ultrasound but just not got round to it as thinking all is consistently the same.

The news is worrying and now I fear that the issue with the left breast is rupture. My surgeon had told me to watch for capsular contracture and aside from this he had said the memory of the material means rupture is safe. So as I had no sign of capsular matters I followed his advice which was also saying that they should remain in a good shape ten years and possibly lot longer, he said he did not know as they were a new product but a surely safer product than liquid silicone.

I have emailed the practice where I had treatment to see if they can arrange for a scan and consult. My surgeon I'm certain is now retired.

Where do I stand with so much time having pased?

I'm prepared to pay for replacement as I had always considered ten years the life span, but if there is some support for removal that would really be of help considering my fears on my health.

Russell Jones & Walker 30 Dec 2011 1:10 pm

We have produced a PIP Implant FAQ's page which can be found at www.rjw.co.uk/pipimplant. I would suggest that you fill out the form at the bottom of the story above and we will contact you regarding the options that you have. This is a service which is free to you.

mrs hooley 29 Dec 2011 5:20 pm

i had the pip implants 5years ago and so far no problem what so ever now im worried they may become a problem i contacted the hospital and were told to go to my gp and ask for a scan i did that only to be told this problem doesnt lie with the nhs and they refuse to send me for a scan even i contacted the hospital again to be told they dont do scans either so what the hell do i do now just being passed from pillar to post were do we all stand legally regarding removal and further surgery for a mess the goverment made we dont all have thousands to pay owt again .

Anonymous 29 Dec 2011 4:37 pm

how do you know if your implants have ruptured ?

Anonymous 28 Dec 2011 11:17 pm

i had my implants done october 2008. really worried about them being ruptured. i went back to see my surgeon when we first heard of the pip scare. he looked and felt and said they were fine. i was not given an ultrasound and i myself think they could have ruptured. whether they have ruptured or not i want them replaced, unfortunately i do not have the money for replacement implants as i will only be graduating from uni soon. where do i stand

Anonymous 28 Dec 2011 12:35 pm

i had my implants inserted in 2007 and have been in touch with the private clinic who implanted them to be told they are P.I.P inplants, I have had no trouble with mine but my sister who had hers fitted a few months later than me, one of hers ruptered just before christmas and she had to pay nearly £3000 to have them reconstructed, i was advised that if anything does go wrong the clinic will replace the implants free of charge but i would have to cover the cost of the medical staff, which i think is unfair. I would appreciate if you could keep me updated with any news. thank you

Russell Jones & Walker 26 Dec 2011 3:38 pm

Yes, we are advising a lot of women at present about their rights on this issue. It appears probable that you may have a good claim and you should certainly investigate recovering compensation including the cost of private treatment. You can get free help from us by filling out the form at the end of the story above

Susan 26 Dec 2011 12:32 pm

I had implants rupture a year after having them inserted, 10 years ago in London. I had to have my lymphnodes removed as a result and reimplanted with the same P.I.P. I was told it was my hard luck, had to pay for the hospital bill (£1900), and told by my surgeon that all the health problems I had, where in my head and I should get help for my hypercondria! Now ten years later, I do not have the money to just get them removed, and my surgeon is happy for me to pay full price again, to have them removed. I was not even told what the reprecussions of having lymphnodes removed. I think the reason why this country has a lower rupture rate, is because surgeons are not registering their patients ruptures, for fears of litigation!!. There should be a demand on surgeons to remove these implants, at no cost to the patient, or their insurance companies should pay for this. That is what they pay insurance for. I am left emotionally and physically scared with this dilemma now, and cant even remove this poison in my body, and nobody who will help me to do it! No other surgeon will even tolerate a consultation with me to have them removed, if I have P.IP. implants, because they are scared of the implications thereafter. The government should follow suit to the French, have some respect for the 40,000 women in mental turmoil right now. Vanity is something we have all been victim to, at some point in our lives, medicine should not have the opportunity to sacrifice our lives, so indecisively!

Anonymous 26 Dec 2011 12:27 am

I have pip implants and the NHS has confirmed by ultrasound there is leakage, this has gone beyond the pocket of the implant into my natural breast tissue and lymph glands in my underarms. Even though they can be removed with no charge from NHS, the NHS won't replace them, In my situation with natural breast tissue being affected and this having to be removed if I don't have a replacement I will end up with a considerable asthetic differnce with one breast deformed - All the NHS have offered me is counselling to deal with it, shocking! At the moment I'm tryinfg to save 4,000 pounds to have the procedure re-done, worrying about my health in the meantime. As lawyers are you dealing with negligence claims? Thanks,

Russell Jones & Walker 22 Dec 2011 12:06 pm

In terms of a law firm in Western Australia one that we have worked with on projects in the past is Slater & Gordon who have an excellent reputation. They can be contacted on 1800 555 777. Hope this helps

Russell Jones & Walker 22 Dec 2011 6:18 am

This sounds like a dreadful experience and we hope that your ultrasound scan shows that all is well.

Anonymous 22 Dec 2011 6:16 am

Can you please advise me on a clinical negligence solicitor in Western Australia as my implants raptured and I had to go through surgery and buy new implants,I also had my lymph glands and two lumps removed before i found out that it was from my PIP rupturing.I had to have several weeks off work and am still not happy with the new ones as they look like two different sizes.
Thank you for your time and much appreciated if you can help

Anonymous 21 Dec 2011 8:45 pm

after having my implants done 7yrs ago the surgeon at the time decided to up the size off implants id asked for in my consultation.the surgeon then replaced with smaller ones but still bigger than asked for.i was left with excess skin stretch marks and unsightly looking breasts.after experianceing pain in my breasts for last few months have now found out mine are the pip implants its been a nightmare from the minute i first had them done.now booked for an ultrascan hope all is well

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