Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
13:35
Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Published on: May 17, 2024
Poly implant prothèse (PIP) breast implants: our experience.
Shaheel Chummun1, Neil R McLean
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Frenchay Hospital, Frenchay Park Road, Bristol BS16 1LE, UK.
Summary
Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP) breast implants showed a high rupture rate of 21.8%, often silently. Patient anxiety and silent ruptures were primary reasons for removal, necessitating thorough pre-operative counseling.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Management of patients with Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP) breast implants between 2000 and 2008.
- PIP implants are associated with significant complications and rupture rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical experience with PIP breast implant management.
- To analyze presentation, investigations, management, and outcomes in patients with PIP implants.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 44 patients with bilateral PIP breast implants.
- Data collection on clinical presentation, imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), and surgical outcomes.
Main Results:
- A high rupture rate of 21.8% (17 of 78 implants) was observed, with 15 implants totally disintegrated.
- 31 patients were asymptomatic despite ruptures; common symptoms included lymphadenopathy and breast lumps.
- Explantation reasons included patient anxiety, silent rupture, and aesthetic concerns; postoperative complications were noted.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms a high incidence of PIP implant rupture, frequently asymptomatic.
- Patient anxiety and silent ruptures are key drivers for explantation.
- Appropriate pre-operative counseling is crucial due to elevated PIP implant rupture rates.
