Posted: March 28, 2016
Mammograms are an important diagnostic tool that may help detect breast cancer in its early stages. The American Cancer Society recommends that women over the age of 40 undergo a mammogram at least once every two years. By catching breast cancer early, you will significantly improve your chances of cure.
Due to the importance of these exams, a common question Dr. Orringer hears during a breast augmentation consultation involves how the implant will impact mammography. Breast implants do interfere with mammography to some extent, although to a lesser degree when placed partially behind the muscle (subpectoral).
There are certain steps that can be taken to increase mammographic visualization of your breasts after placement of breast implants:
- Work with a center that has extensive experience performing mammograms on women with breast implants.
- Inform the clinic that you have breast implants when you make your appointment and remind them when you arrive for your exam.
- Make sure the clinic obtains special mammogram views, called implant-displacement views, in order to obtain better visualization of your breasts.
By working with an experienced center that understands the unique nuances of performing a mammogram on a woman with breast implants, you can still visualize the breasts and increase the likelihood of detecting breast cancer in its early stages.
While there is a small possibility that the mammogram may cause an implant rupture, this is rare and less likely to happen in centers accustomed to dealing with augmented patients. The fear of a rupture should not deter you from undergoing this important diagnostic exam.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Orringer will discuss these and other considerations with you to help you decide whether breast augmentation is right for you.
Please contact Dr. Jay Orringer at The Renaissance Medical Center for Aesthetic Surgery, Inc. using the form on this page or call 310-273-1663 today to schedule your breast augmentation consultation. We serve patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Hollywood, California, as well as nationally and internationally.
