Preliminary test shows breast implants safe—U.K. researchers

This new cheaper form of breast implants, commonly known as PIPs implants, by French manufacture Poly Implant Prostheses came under scanner earlier this year when a French inquiry revealed that the gel has the potential to cause health problems.

Commenting on the study results, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) director of devices clinical, Dr. Susanne Ludgate said in a statement, "It's reassuring that our test results have shown no evidence of any associated risks with the filler material.

We are however waiting for the results of the French tests which are more extensive and include mechanical testing of the implant shell because there may be a suggestion of an increased rupture rate compared with other breast implants. We will update clinicians and women once these test results are available and provide further advice on patient management as necessary."

Controversy surrounding PIPs
The whole matter started few months back when French association of plastic surgeons started reporting that PIPs are filled with a composition quite different from the one approved by the health authorities and the protect barriers from implants were also missing.

At first, they contacted the French manufacturer of the product in order to get some clarification from them on how the gel will react in the human body if leaks happened.

They were startled to find out that the company has done no research on the subject.

After finding out about all this and amidst the reports of leaks and raptures in PIPs implants, MHRA in March decided to put ban on PIPs implants and also announced that the remaining product should be returned to its manufacturer.

Since then PIPs manufacturing company has recalled all the remaining products from the market and has gone into liquidation.

French authorities have also accused the company of dishonesty as it was manufacturing the unauthorized product for almost ten years.

Relief for patients with PIPs implants
The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), president, Nigel Mercer said in a press statement that he’s happy that tests results were provided so fast in order to put patients off anxiety.

"We would like to praise the MHRA for their proactive response in conducting safety tests and are delighted that there is little risk to patients from the gel. Hopefully this will reduce the anxiety of patients whilst further studies are expected from France,” said Mercer.

Meanwhile, “Our advice remains that women with suspected rupture contact their surgeon and undergo an ultrasound and removal, as they should with any ruptured implant."

However, Mercer believes that in-depth research is needed on the issue.