If you have breast implants, you might have a lot of questions about getting a mammogram. Will it hurt? Can your implants get damaged? Will the results be accurate?
These concerns are normal and important to address. After all, mammogram screenings are the best tool for catching breast cancer early. But you want to be sure the process is safe and effective with your implants.
With the help of Danielle Summers, MD, a breast imaging specialist and diagnostic radiologist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, we answer these questions and more so you can confidently approach your mammogram.
Why are mammograms important, even when I have implants?
You might wonder if breast implants change your need for mammograms. The truth is, implants or not, regular screening mammograms remain the best way to detect breast cancer early when it’s most treatable.
“Even with implants, mammograms can spot changes in your breast tissue that might not be felt during a self-exam,” Dr. Summers said.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends that women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB), including those with implants, start getting yearly mammograms at age 40. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors, your provider may recommend screenings sooner.
Will a mammogram hurt if I have breast implants?
A common worry is that a mammogram will hurt more if you have implants. While mammograms can be uncomfortable for anyone, having implants doesn’t mean more pain.
“Most people report any discomfort as quite minimal,” Dr. Summers said. “Mammogram technologists are great about working with you to ensure it is as comfortable as possible.”
Technicians are trained to be gentle, especially when working with implants. Because implants can add some firmness, you might feel a bit more pressure. If you feel pain, let the technician know so they can help you adjust your breast placement.
Can my implants burst during a mammogram?
Many people worry that you shouldn’t get a mammogram if you have implants because they are worried about implant rupture.
“Breast implant rupture during a mammogram is extremely rare,” says Dr. Summers. “The benefits of getting a mammogram, including detecting breast cancer early when outcomes are better and treatments are more effective and less harmful, far outweigh the risk.”
Radiologists and technicians are trained to handle breast implants with care. They use special techniques, like implant displacement views, where they gently move the implant back to help protect the implant while getting a clearer view of the breast tissue.
Can breast implants affect the accuracy of my mammogram?
Breast implants can make it a bit more challenging to get clear mammogram images. Implants can block some of the breast tissue, especially if they are placed in front of the chest muscle. This can make it harder for the X-ray to capture a full view of the breast.
“This is why we get a few additional mammogram images in patients with implants,” Dr. Summers said. “For these images, the technologist gently pushes the implant back while pulling the breast tissue forward and compresses the tissue in front of the implant.”
These extra images, or implant-displaced views, help radiologists see as much of the breast tissue as possible.
It’s important to choose a facility experienced with implants. Technicians and radiologists who regularly work with implants know how to get the best possible images.
Will I need additional imaging tests if I have breast implants?
There’s no need for extra breast cancer screening just because you have implants.
“Additional imaging for breast cancer screening, such as breast MRI or breast ultrasound, may be recommended if you have factors that increase your risk of developing breast cancer, but not because you have implants,” Dr. Summers said.
However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does recommend routine imaging to check for implant rupture in people with silicone implants. This includes an MRI or ultrasound five to six years after your initial surgery and every two to three years after that.
“This is not needed for saline implants because if they rupture they deflate and there is a visible change in the breast size,” Dr. Summers said. “This is not the case when silicone implants rupture.”
Should I tell my technician about my implants?
Yes, always let your technician know you have breast implants before your mammogram begins. This is important because the technician needs to know how to adjust the procedure to accommodate your implants.
Do breast implants increase my risk of breast cancer?
Standard silicone or saline breast implants do not increase your risk of breast cancer. However, there is a rare cancer of the immune system called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ACLC) linked to certain types of textured implants.
It’s important to note that BIA-ACLC is not breast cancer but a type of lymphoma that develops in the scar tissue around the implant.
“While the risk of BIA-ACLC is low, it’s something to be aware of,” Dr. Summers said. “If you develop symptoms like breast swelling, talk to your health care provider right away.”
Can I have a 3D mammogram if I have breast implants?
While 2D mammograms evaluate the breast using a single image, a 3D mammogram (digital breast tomosynthesis) is an advanced type of mammography.
3D mammography creates a 3D image by taking many pictures to show thin layers of the breast. These views make it easier to spot problems in the breast, especially if you have dense breast tissue or implants. However, some health care providers don’t recommend 3D mammograms because X-ray machines use a slightly higher radiation dose.
If you are interested in 3D mammograms, talk to your provider and check your insurance coverage. While 3D imaging is popular, your insurance company may not cover it.
How do I prepare for a mammogram?
Preparing for a mammogram when you have implants is similar to preparing for a standard mammogram. Here are some tips from Dr. Summers to help you get ready:
- Look for a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence certified by the American College of Radiology, such as the Women’s Imaging Center at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. This accreditation means the center meets the highest standards and requirements and goes above and beyond for patients.
- Consider a center that has experience imaging breasts with implants.
- Bring any information on your breast implants, such as the type of implant and when they were placed.
- Let the facility and technician know that you have breast implants before your appointment. This will help ensure the facility allocates the right amount of time and plans for the correct exam.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions or tell the technician if something feels uncomfortable or painful.
Should I still do self-exams if I have implants?
Yes, you should continue to perform monthly breast self-exams, even if you have implants. Self-exams help you become familiar with how your breasts usually feel so that you can detect any changes early.
When you have implants, be gentle and focus on the breast tissue around the implant. Look for any lumps, thickening or changes in the skin. If you notice anything unusual, contact your health care provider right away.
Bottom line
Having breast implants is no reason to skip your mammogram. Regular screenings are your best tool for catching breast cancer early.
If you have questions or concerns about the process, talk to your health care provider, radiologist or a Banner Health specialist. They’re there to help you feel comfortable and informed.
