Early detection is key for positive prognosis of breast cancer. For that reason, it is recommended for all women, including women with breast implants, to undergo breast screening tests.
Learn more about screening tests for women with breast implants:
INFORM THE IMAGING SPECIALIST ABOUT YOUR IMPLANTS
Inform the mammogram technologist you have breast implants before your mammography. Mammographies with implants are possible with a special technique, and the specialist should be alerted in advance.
LEARN THE RIGHT TECHNIQUES FOR SELF-EXAMINATION
If you have breast implants, make sure to ask your surgeon to guide you on how to differentiate between the breast tissue and the implant.
FOLLOW A CALENDAR
Follow your usual calendar of screening tests, including mammography, as suggested by your surgeon. Remember how important regular self-breast exams are.
IF IN DOUBT, VISIT A PROFESSIONAL
If you notice anything unusual, such as bleeding, discharge, swelling or a lump, contact your physician immediately for a professional review.
External sources:
Breast cancer: Early diagnosis, World Health Organization (Current webpage edition September 2020). URL: https://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/en/
Mammograms for Women with Breast Implants, American Cancer Society (2019). URL: https://bit.ly/2Yg2lfe
6 Questions to Ask about Breast Implants and Mammograms, Center for Diagnostic Imaging (2020). URL: https://bit.ly/3l3JgH4.
Eklund Technique, Bell and Pacifici et al. (Current webpage edition September 2020). URL: https://radiopaedia.org/articles/eklund-technique