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Breast Cancer Screening for Women With Breast Implants: What Changes
By Dr. Gajendra Kumar Himanshu
Women with breast implants can still have regular breast cancer screening, and mammography remains an important screening test when it is recommended for their age and risk level. The main difference is that implants can hide some breast tissue on a standard mammogram, so the radiographer may take additional implant-displacement views to see more of the breast. Women should always tell the mammography centre about their implants before the test.
In this blog, we will explain how breast cancer screening changes when you have breast implants, how mammography is performed, whether implants can affect the results, what you should tell the radiographer, and when other tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be needed. We will also discuss some simple steps women can take to make breast screening safer and more useful.
Can Women With Breast Implants Have a Mammogram?
Yes, having breast implants does not mean you have to stop routine breast cancer screening. Women with implants can have mammograms just like women without implants, based on their age, personal risk and doctor’s advice.
The main difference is that the implant may cover some of the breast tissue on an X-ray image. This can make it harder for the radiologist to see the entire breast clearly. Special views can help show more breast tissue.
Why Do Breast Implants Change Mammography?
Breast implants are placed either behind the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle. Because the implant is dense, it can block part of the breast tissue from view on a mammogram.
This does not mean that mammography cannot detect breast cancer in women with implants. Instead, the imaging team uses special techniques to move the implant away from the breast tissue as much as possible.
What Are Implant-Displacement Views?
One of the main changes is the use of implant-displacement (ID) views, also called Eklund views.
During these images, the radiographer gently pushes the implant back towards the chest wall while bringing the breast tissue forward. The breast tissue can then be compressed and photographed separately from much of the implant.
This helps the radiologist see more of the breast tissue.
Women with implants generally have four additional implant-displacement images, two for each breast, along with the standard mammography images. The exact imaging approach can vary depending on the implant and the imaging centre.
What Changes During Breast Screening With Implants?
The basic purpose of the mammogram remains the same, but the imaging process may take a little longer because additional pictures are needed.
Without breast implants | With breast implants |
|---|---|
Standard mammogram views | Standard views plus additional views when appropriate |
Most breast tissue is directly compressed | The implant may cover some breast tissue |
Routine positioning | Special implant-displacement positioning may be used |
Usual screening process | The radiographer needs to know about the implants |
Images are reviewed for breast changes | Images are reviewed while considering the presence of implants |
The goal is to show as much breast tissue as possible while keeping the examination safe and comfortable.
What Should You Tell the Radiographer?
Always tell the mammography centre that you have breast implants when booking your appointment and again when you arrive. This allows the team to plan the examination properly.
It is also useful to tell them:
- Whether your implants are silicone or saline
- When the implants were placed
- Whether you have had breast surgery before
- Whether you have experienced any recent breast changes or implant problems
If possible, choose a centre where the staff have experience in performing mammograms for women with breast implants. The FDA specifically advises patients to ask whether the facility has trained and experienced staff for implant imaging.
You can also learn about common breast cancer symptoms so you know which changes should be discussed with a doctor.
Is Mammography Safe With Breast Implants?
Mammography can be performed in women with breast implants. However, there is a very small risk of implant damage or rupture during mammographic compression. This is one reason it is important to tell the imaging team about the implants and have the examination performed by trained staff.
Women should also understand that the purpose of a screening mammogram is to look for breast cancer. It is not the main test used to check whether a silicone implant has ruptured.
If you have symptoms that suggest an implant problem, your doctor may recommend a different type of imaging.
Can Implants Hide Breast Cancer?
Implants can make some breast tissue harder to see on mammograms. This is why special positioning and implant-displacement views are important.
Even with these techniques, not every part of the breast may be equally visible. The GOV UK breast screening guidance also notes that some compromise in breast tissue visibility can remain in women with implants.
This does not mean women with implants should avoid mammography. Instead, it makes it even more important to tell the imaging team about the implants and follow the recommended screening plan.
If you notice a new lump, nipple change, unusual discharge or another breast change, do not wait for your next routine screening appointment. Speak with a doctor.
When Are Ultrasound or MRI Needed?
Mammography is mainly used for breast cancer screening, while ultrasound and MRI may be used in certain situations.
For example, if a woman has a lump or another unusual finding, the doctor may recommend ultrasound or diagnostic mammography to look more closely at that area.
MRI can also be useful for certain breast problems and for evaluating suspected silicone implant rupture. MRI without contrast is usually appropriate when a silicone implant complication is suspected.
For women without symptoms, implant evaluation is a separate issue from routine breast cancer screening. Women with silicone implants should discuss any recommended implant checks with their doctor.
You can read more about breast cancer diagnosis to understand how doctors investigate an abnormal breast finding.
Does Having Implants Increase Breast Cancer Risk?
Having breast implants does not mean that a woman automatically has a higher risk of ordinary breast cancer. The FDA states that breast cancer screening recommendations still apply to women with implants.
However, breast implants are associated with some rare conditions that are different from typical breast cancer, including breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Women with implants should discuss any persistent swelling, pain, a lump around the implant or other unusual changes with their doctor.
What Can Women Do Before a Mammogram?
A few simple steps can make the appointment easier:
- Tell the centre about your implants before the appointment.
- Tell the radiographer again before the mammogram starts.
- Mention any previous breast surgery.
- Take previous mammogram reports or images if available.
- Tell the doctor about any new breast symptoms.
Most importantly, do not skip recommended breast screening simply because you have implants. Regular screening can help detect breast changes early.
Consult Today
If you have breast implants and are unsure about your breast cancer screening schedule, mammography results or whether you need additional tests, speak with an experienced breast cancer specialist.
Oncare Cancer Hospital can help women understand their screening reports, breast symptoms and next steps based on their individual health and risk factors.
You can consult Oncare Cancer Hospital to discuss breast cancer screening and the right evaluation for your needs.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always discuss decisions about breast screening, implant imaging or any new breast symptom with a certified cancer healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, women with breast implants can have mammograms when routine screening is recommended for them. Special views may be used to see more breast tissue.
The level of discomfort varies. Implant-displacement views can sometimes feel uncomfortable, especially when scar tissue around the implant is present.
Implant rupture during mammography is possible but rare. Always tell the radiographer about your implants before the examination.
Not everyone needs an MRI. It may be recommended for certain breast findings or when a silicone implant problem, such as rupture, is suspected.
Written and Verified by:
Dr. Gajendra Kumar Himanshu Exp: 10 Yr
Medical Officer
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