PIP breast implant update

The Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery update regarding French breast implant recall which may affect some Australian women

There continue to be a number of media reports, particularly in France and in the United Kingdom regarding the French manufactured breast implants, produced by Poly Implant Prothese, or PIP, which have been the subject of regulatory concern.

Authorities in France have found that these silicone-gel implants are manufactured with a type of silicone gel that was not approved for use and may tend to rupture. These implants have been used in Australia.

The College has been asked by the TGA to contribute to an expert panel to provide further information and assist in the assessment of the risk that the PIP implants may pose to Australian women who have had them implanted.

Dr Daniel Fleming, a former College president and one of Australia’s most experienced breast augmentation surgeons, will participate on the expert panel on behalf of the College.

To date, UK authorities have uncovered no increased risk of toxicity. All breast implants have a risk of rupture (approximately 10 to13 per cent in ten years). However, the TGA in Australia has tested and found the strength of PIP implants meets relevant international standards for manufacture.

Dr Fleming advises anyone who believes that they may have these implants that they should not be unduly alarmed. They should contact their doctor or surgeon for further advice.

The College will continue to monitor inquires and provide addition information as developments require.

The Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery is a multi-disciplinary body of general surgeons, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, ear nose and throat surgeons, ophthalmologists and other doctors who specialise in cosmetic surgery. The goal of the ACCS is to ensure the safe provision of cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medical procedures to the Australian general community through supply of appropriately trained and certified medical practitioners. The College has made a full application to the Australian Medical Council to have Cosmetic Medical Practice recognised as a new Medical Specialty. That application may be viewed at: