PIP Implants Update: Breast Implants Deemed Defective

At a glance: A French appeal court has determined that patients who have suffered physical and/or mental harm from defective PIP breast implants are entitled to compensation. Irish women that received the French manufactured implants which are defective should contact their doctor and can contact us for legal advice to claim compensation.

2,700 women brought legal cases in France claiming they suffered long-term physical and mental health problems after receiving PIP (Poly Implant Prosthese) breast implants manufactured with cheap, industrial-grade silicone not approved for use in humans.

An appeal court in Paris ruled that women who received these defective implants manufactured in France should receive compensation. It was adjudicated that the German firm TUV Rheinland was negligent in awarding safety certificates.

The PIP Implant World Victims Association has said that damages amounting to thousands of euro for each victim were being sought in France.

The Irish Examiner reported that it is understood that up to 10,000 Irish women are amongst the victims.

If you have received a PIP breast implant you can contact our team at HOMS Assist to advise you if you are entitled to make a claim for compensation.

If you have received a PIP breast implant it is important to get legal advice from specialist solicitors who understand the unique nature of defective implants claims.

We have over 50 years expert legal experience advising such patients.

Understanding PIP Breast Implants

PIP breast implants were a type of silicone breast implant manufactured by Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP), a French company. These implants were designed for breast augmentation and reconstruction procedures, offering women the promise of enhanced appearance and confidence. However, it was later discovered that PIP had been using industrial-grade silicone, which is not approved for human use, in their implants. This fraudulent practice led to a significantly higher risk of rupture and other serious complications. PIP breast implants were widely used across Europe, Australia, and North and South America, with over 20 years of production before the scandal came to light. The revelation of these practices has had a profound impact on the medical community and the patients who trusted these products.

Risks and Complications of PIP Implants

The use of industrial-grade silicone in PIP implants resulted in a higher incidence of ruptures and other complications compared to standard silicone implants. Studies have shown that PIP implants are 2-6 times more likely to rupture, leading to severe health issues. When a PIP implant ruptures, it can cause debilitating pain, extreme exhaustion, and even trigger auto-immune diseases. Additionally, there have been numerous cancer scares associated with these implants. In some cases, the silicone gel can leak into surrounding tissues, causing a condition known as siliconoma, which can be extremely painful and difficult to treat. The PIP scandal has left many women dealing with both physical and mental distress, as the constant fear of rupture or leakage looms over them.

The Impact of the PIP Scandal on the Medical Industry

The PIP scandal has had a far-reaching impact on the medical industry, shaking the trust between patients and healthcare providers. This incident underscored the urgent need for stricter regulations and enhanced patient safety measures. In response, the European Commission introduced the European Medical Devices Regulation, aimed at improving safety and training standards for breast implants. This regulation ensures that companies are held accountable for their products and cannot bypass proper regulatory procedures. The scandal also led to the recall of PIP implants and spurred the development of safer, more reliable implants. Today, patients can have greater confidence in the safety of breast implants, thanks to these regulatory improvements. Choosing an experienced surgeon and adhering to pre-and post-operative instructions are crucial steps in minimising the risks associated with breast implants, ensuring better outcomes for patients.