Introducing Scotland's First One-Stop Breast Implant Health Check Clinic
Waterfront Hospital launches pioneering breast implant monitoring service
We’re excited to announce the launch of Scotland’s first dedicated one-stop Breast Implant Health Check service at Waterfront Hospital. This pioneering new service combines specialist ultrasound scanning and plastic surgeon consultation in a single visit, providing comprehensive implant assessment without the usual delays between appointments.
Addressing a Critical Healthcare Gap
Until now, women with breast implants in Scotland have faced a fragmented approach to implant monitoring. Typically, patients need separate appointments for imaging and consultant review—often weeks apart and at different facilities.
“We identified a clear need for a more streamlined, patient-centred approach to breast implant monitoring,” says [Consultant Name], Lead Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Waterfront Hospital. “Our new service brings together specialist radiologists and plastic surgeons in one clinic, eliminating waiting times between scans and expert assessment.”
This innovative approach comes at a crucial time. Following the global recall of Allergan BIOCELL textured implants in 2019 and growing awareness of conditions like Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), regular implant monitoring has never been more important.
The Challenges of UK Implant Monitoring
Unlike the United States, where the FDA recommends specific MRI screening schedules, the UK lacks standardised guidelines for routine breast implant monitoring. This means many women with implants receive no regular imaging unless they develop symptoms—potentially missing early signs of complications.
Our Breast Implant Health Check service addresses this gap with a proactive approach to implant health. Using the latest Canon Aplio Me ultrasound technology, our specialists can detect potential issues before they cause noticeable symptoms.
“Early detection is key for implant complications,” explains Awf Quaba, Consultant Plastic Surgeon. “Silent ruptures, capsular contracture, and conditions like BIA-ALCL can all be identified through regular ultrasound screening. The earlier we detect these issues, the more options patients have.”
State-of-the-Art Technology
Central to our new service is the advanced Canon Aplio Me ultrasound scanner, which offers exceptional imaging quality for breast implant assessment.
“The Canon Aplio Me provides superior-resolution imaging and advanced harmonics that allow us to visualise implants and surrounding tissue with remarkable clarity,” says Theodora Zachari, Consultant Radiologist. “This technology significantly enhances our ability to detect even subtle abnormalities at an early stage.”
While MRI scanning is often considered the gold standard for detecting implant ruptures, high-quality ultrasound offers several advantages:
- More affordable and accessible than MRI
- No contraindications for patients with metal implants or claustrophobia
- Real-time assessment with immediate specialist feedback
- Excellent accuracy (87% sensitivity and 90% specificity for detecting ruptures)
Who Should Consider Booking a Check?
Regular breast implant monitoring becomes increasingly important as implants age. We recommend booking an ultrasound check if you:
- Have implants over 5 years old
- Have textured implants (particularly Allergan BIOCELL models)
- Notice any changes in your breasts
- Experience pain, swelling, or discomfort
- Have implants that have never been imaged (for implants over 3 years old)
- Are planning future breast surgery
Even without symptoms, establishing a baseline assessment is valuable for future monitoring, especially for textured implants or those approaching the 5-year mark.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Our one-stop clinic provides a seamless experience:
- Specialist ultrasound scan performed by a consultant breast radiologist
- Immediate consultation with a consultant plastic surgeon
- Comprehensive assessment of your implant condition
- Personalised recommendations based on your specific situation
The entire appointment typically takes just 45-60 minutes, with no need for follow-up visits unless specific interventions are recommended.
Service Launch and Booking Information
Our Breast Implant Health Check service will be fully operational within 6 weeks. We are currently accepting advance bookings for appointments.
Comprehensive and highly competitive pricing information will be available shortly. Our aim is to make this essential service accessible to all women with breast implants.
To schedule your appointment or register your interest – contact us below.
Leading the Way in Implant Health
By introducing Scotland’s first dedicated one-stop breast implant monitoring service, Waterfront Hospital continues its commitment to excellence and innovation in patient care.
“We’re proud to be pioneering this approach to breast implant health in Scotland,” says Hospital Director and Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Omar Quaba. “Women with implants deserve access to efficient, expert monitoring services, and we’re delighted to be leading the way in this important area of healthcare.”
For more information about our new Breast Implant Health Check service, visit our dedicated service page or contact our booking team.
