The PIP scandal refers to the 47,000 British women whose breast implants unknowingly contained industrial-grade silicon, which is not designed for medical use.

When the PIP scandal broke in in 2010, it marked one of the most noteworthy cases of medical negligence in recent history. It is estimated that over 400,000 women from across the world were impacted and that the implants, made by French firm Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP), were twice as likely to rupture than other brands.

In addition to negligence on behalf of the manufacturer, questions were raised about the extent to which the German cosmetic-surgery certification agency, TÜV Rheinland, was liable after awarding safety certificates for the faulty implants.

With the impact of the scandal still being felt and many women still awaiting compensation, we take a look at the scandal in more detail and how recent developments impact victims in the UK and abroad.

What is the PIP Scandal?

Poly Implant Prothèse was once the third biggest supplier of breast implants in the world, having produced over 2,000 breast implants to be used by cosmetic surgeons.

Following reports of abnormally high rupture rates, it was found that the manufacturer had been filling implants with sub-standard silicone gel that was not cleared for human use. The company went into liquidation in 2010 and its founder, Jean-Claude Mas was convicted of aggravated fraud and sentenced to four years in prison.

Victims have reported a range of mental and physical health issues, including extreme pain, inflammation, headaches, infections, anxiety and low energy. Many women suffered for years before realising that their health issues were a direct result of their faulty implants.

While some cosmetic surgery clinics notified their clients about the danger following the scandal breaking, many others never received any additional communication from their provider.

With implants likely to rupture or leak, resulting in their body exposed to industrial-grade silicone, women have been forced to take decisions about their medical care into their own hands. Many have decided to pay out of pocket to have their implants removed, and many more are not in a position to pay thousands for a second breast augmentation procedure - leaving them in an incredibly difficult situation.

Why has it taken so long to resolve?

Due to the sheer size of the scandal and the number of women impacted, it has proven a difficult and slow process to secure compensation for the suffering caused.

With PIP filing for bankruptcy in 2010, the company has not had to pay damages to any of the thousands of victims and women have found there is limited recourse available.

A number of lawsuits have been brought against TUV Rheinland for certifying the implants as safe for use, with some success.

The most recent case has secured compensation for thousands of women, including 540 Britons. Although the final compensation amount is yet to be determined, campaigners have seen this as a huge victory and hope it will lead to more cases being brought against the German agency.

Despite the recent victory, it remains that many victims have been unable to secure any compensation at all.

Who is entitled to compensation?

The French court's recent ruling suggests that all victims who have suffered as a result of unknowingly receiving the faulty implants should now be entitled to compensation.

While many women now know they are living with PIP implants, there are thousands of others who are still uncertain about the implants that are given and if they are entitled to make a claim.

Anyone who had breast implants before 2010 should contact the clinic or hospital they used to ask for details on what type of implants were used. This can be more challenging for individuals who went abroad for surgery or whose care provider has since gone out of business.

What help is available?

A point of contention throughout the scandal has been the lack of help and support available to the women who have been directly impacted by the scandal.

As a result, over the last decade a number of support groups have been created to help victims come to terms with what has happened and raise awareness surrounding the scandal. Some of the most prominent include, Official PIP Implant Campaign (OPIC) and PIP Action Group.

For women who are worried about the impact their implants are having on their health, some private clinics have agreed to remove and replace PIP breast implants free of charge, if medically necessary. The NHS has also said they will remove implants but are unable to peace with the implants if they were fitted privately. You can find more on the support available here. Additionally, you can also learn more about making a breast implant compensation claim here.

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.