How many women have resorted to help via the NHS following PIP implants?

Recent figures suggest that over 2,800 patients who have had privately fitted PIP breast implants have now been transferred to NHS care.

This is as a direct result of their respective private clinics either refusing to remove the implant or no longer being in existence. If the patient is unable to obtain removal of their implant via their private clinic, the NHS has agreed to remove but not replace the implant provided that there is a medical need. Reports suggest that of those patients who have been referred to a specialist so far, 67 have decided to have their implants removed and 455 have decided not to have the implants removed. So far 1,100 patients have been scanned. Figures indicate that 741 patients were fitted with PIP implants via the NHS. A significant proportion of these patients had undergone breast reconstruction surgery following breast cancer. Of the 653 patients who have been contacted only 17 have decided to have their implants removed and replaced.

Benjamin Ward, a Medical Injury Solicitor at Ashtons Legal, comments that “these figures are indicative of the fact that these patients required reassurance more than anything else. The level of concern and distress caused to these women is not surprising given the recent level of media exposure in relation to PIP implants and the awful side effects that can occur from the implant bursting. However, it is quite concerning that so many women who had PIP implants on a private basis have had to resort to seeking help from the NHS. I understand only a minority of private clinics have refused to take responsibility for the PIP implants they have implanted. Surely now is the time to ‘name and shame’ those clinics who are not providing the support, care and on-going service that these women require and deserve?“