Many women with breast implants feel unsure when doctors advise them to get a mammogram. This concern often arises because a mammogram involves compressing the breasts to obtain clear images. This leads to an important question: is this test safe for women with implants, and will the results still be accurate? The explanation is below.

Can I Have a Mammogram If I Have Breast Implants?

Various medical sources explain that women with breast implants still need regular mammograms based on their age and risk profile. This test remains important because it can detect early signs of cancer, even before breast cancer symptoms appear, which is one of the main benefits of mammograms and helps doctors investigate possible causes of breast cancer and plan treatment, regardless of mammogram costs.

Implants are usually placed behind the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. This means the natural breast tissue is still present, and this is where breast cancer can still develop.

One exception applies to people with history of bilateral mastectomy, meaning both breasts have been removed before the implants were placed. In this situation, all breast tissue has been removed, so the risk of breast cancer is almost zero. As a result, mammograms are generally no longer needed.

However, for women with breast implants, doctors will often recommend additional tests such as breast MRI or ultrasound. Because some breast tissue is covered by the implant, mammograms can be less sensitive. These additional tests help produce clearer and more accurate images to detect any changes or abnormalities in the remaining breast tissue.

Mammogram Safety and Risks in People With Breast Implants

For some people, a mammogram can feel slightly uncomfortable because the breast needs to be pressed for a few seconds to obtain a clear picture. This discomfort may be more noticeable if there is scar tissue or thickening around the implant.

The good news is that mammograms are still considered safe for women with breast implants. The test is performed carefully by trained staff, and the risk of an implant rupturing during the procedure is very low.

To keep your mammogram safe and ensure the test will provide accurate images, there are several things you should pay attention to before the test:

• Inform the hospital or clinic beforehand that you have breast implants.

• Choose a facility that has experience performing mammograms on patients with breast implants.

• Describe the type and position of your implants so the technician can adjust the technique used during the test.

• Schedule your mammogram about one week after your period, when your breasts are usually softer and less tender.

• Bring previous mammogram images so the doctor can compare and assess changes in your breast tissue over time.

• Tell the technician right away if you feel excessive pain during the test.

In addition to routine mammograms, you should also stay alert for any changes in your breasts, such as new lumps, changes in shape, unusual pain, or changes in the skin surface. If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

You can also use the health consultation feature in the Ai Care app, which is available on the App Store and Play Store.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!