Breast implants don’t prevent mammograms, but they do require special imaging techniques to ensure a thorough examination. Since implants can obscure some breast tissue, trained technicians use specialized positioning to make sure all areas are visible. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.
Why Breast Cancer Screening Is Still Important with Implants
Breast cancer screening is essential for early detection, whether or not you have implants. While implants don’t increase your cancer risk, they can make some areas of the breast harder to see, especially if placed above the muscle. Regular mammograms help detect abnormalities before they cause symptoms.
How Implants Affect Mammogram Imaging
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Obstruction of Tissue: Implants can hide some breast tissue, potentially limiting standard views.
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Need for Implant Displacement (Eklund) Views: The technician gently pushes the implant back toward the chest wall and pulls the breast tissue forward for clearer images.
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Longer Appointment Time: Additional views and careful positioning make the process slightly longer than a standard mammogram.
Implant Placement and Imaging Clarity
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Submuscular Placement (Under the Muscle): Allows more breast tissue to be seen, often making mammograms easier to interpret.
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Subglandular Placement (Above the Muscle): May obscure more tissue, requiring extra positioning for accurate results.
Tips for a Successful Mammogram with Implants
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Inform Your Provider: Let the imaging center know you have implants when scheduling.
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Choose an Experienced Facility: Seek out centers that routinely perform mammograms on patients with implants.
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Continue Regular Screening: Follow the screening frequency recommended for your age and risk factors.
Other Breast Imaging Options
In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional imaging:
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Ultrasound: Helpful for evaluating lumps or dense breast tissue
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MRI: Used for higher-risk patients or to check implant integrity
Self-Exams and Ongoing Awareness
Even with regular mammograms, self-awareness is key to breast health. Monitor for:
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Lumps or areas of thickened tissue
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Unexplained swelling or pain
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Changes in skin texture or color
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Changes in nipple shape or discharge
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Report any changes to your doctor promptly.
Key Takeaway
Breast implants may require specialized mammogram techniques, but they do not prevent accurate screening when performed by experienced professionals. With the right care and regular monitoring, you can maintain both your aesthetic results and your breast health.
Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim
For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim. Click here to contact us today.
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Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.