PIP Breast Implants FAQs
We are receiving a very high volume of enquiries from women who have had Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) breast implants, and are worried about their health.
If you have PIP implants and are concerned about your health and where you stand legally please call us on 033 3344 9600.
We hope these “FAQ’s” might also be of assistance.
1. I have PIP implants. What should I do?
If you haven’t already seen your GP you should make an appointment as soon as possible and register the fact that you have PIP implants.
You may be eligible for an ultrasound scan which will enable your doctor to determine whether your implants are damaged / ruptured.
If you require further surgery to remove and replace your implants and you were initially treated on the NHS this may be available free of charge.
In most cases however treatment was performed privately, and if this is the case with you, then you should contact the clinic and ask to see your surgeon for a follow up appointment.
2. I have been told that my PIP implants have ruptured. Where do I stand legally?
Unfortunately, many of the victims we have spoken with have been previously misadvised. These are not personal injury or medical negligence claims, but product liability claims.
In law, the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982, is the helpful legislation. It provides that goods purchased must be of merchantable quality and if they are defective you are entitled to be compensated.
If the implants have not yet ruptured, we think that the increased risk of rupture still makes them “defective”.
3. The private clinic has disappeared. Can I still make a claim?
All clinics should have been insured and we would hope to be able to identify these insurers.
4. I have some symptoms (these may include pain, inflammation and/or tiredness). Is there any evidence linking these symptoms to the implants?
The UK Government’s medical advisors do not presently believe there is a link. This is a link to their report dated 6th January 2012:
https://www.morrishsolicitors.com/wp-content/uploads/pip-report.pdf
The position is fluid and we understand why victims find this confusing. Your doctor will know the latest advice when it is given by the Government.
5. I want my implants removing. If they are not ruptured can I still claim back the cost?
Possibly. We understand that your primary concern is for your health and so it is understandable that you want to have your implants removed and replaced. If you pay for this, you may be able to reclaim such costs, but will require legal advice and assistance to do so – please call us to discuss your individual circumstances.
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 online claim form.
