Poly implant breast implants (PIP) and the rupture risk in asymptomatic patients: a warning for greater clinician suspicion in assessment and counselling

Poly implant prostheses (PIP) implants have raised concern due to the increased reporting of ruptures prompting a UK review in 2012 recommending that symptomatic patients only undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and explantation as necessary. Literature suggests two of three implant ruptures are asymptomatic. In this case, a 45-year-old woman with bilateral breast implants for cosmesis presented due to publicity of PIP implants. She was asymptomatic with no clinical signs suggestive of rupture. Due to patient intention for explanation of rupture, an MRI scan was undertaken which showed extensive silicone between the chest wall and lung bilaterally. The lung multidisciplinary team did not recommend removal of the lung silicone infiltrate. The implants were removed confirming rupture. Symptoms and signs cannot be relied upon to diagnose implant ruptures. Where patient concern exists with expressed intent for explantation if proven rupture, MRI assessment is a reliable tool where clinical uncertainty over rupture is present.