Professional body denounces PIP implant clinics for pressurising victims

News from BAAPS…

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has issued a press release which highlights the increasing number of women affected by the PIP implants scandal who are being asked to sign waivers relating to their right to take legal action regarding their PIP revision surgery. At Attwood Solicitors, we have been contacted by many women regarding whether or not these waivers should be signed. We intend to argue that the waivers are unenforceable, as they were signed under undue pressure. Many PIP victims have been asked to sign these waivers only hours before revision surgery, having already paid for the surgery itself. In today’s article, BAAPS President Fazel Fatah, urges “women not to let themselves be bullied or pressured into anything they’re not comfortable with.” However, any woman who has signed a waiver should be aware that this may mean that she is unable to receive any compensation for the faulty PIP breast implants, not only for the cost of the revision surgery but also with regard to the claim for personal injury compensation and the consequential damages. Total costs could run into thousands of pounds over and above the costs of the revision surgery. Anyone who has signed a waiver may forfeit her right to pursue a claim. Ultimately it will be for the courts to decide whether or not these waivers are enforceable. It may be the case that, if you choose to have your revision surgery at a clinic other than where you originally had your PIP implants inserted, you are not asked to sign a waiver. However, the decision whether or not to sign a waiver is a matter for each woman to decide based on her own personal circumstances. We ask you to be vigilant if asked to sign a waiver and be aware that although we are prepared to pursue a claim for you whether or not you have signed a waiver, there may be consequences of signing a waiver which may effect your ability to claim. To find out more about PIP revision surgery waivers, please contact Attwood Solicitors on 0800 145 5105 (or e-mail enquiries@attwoodsolicitors.co.uk).