Will Breast Augmentation Affect Mammogram Accuracy?

Regular mammograms are important for women’s long-term health. The National Cancer Institute, located just across the Potomac from McLean, has found that regular mammograms for women ages 40 to 74 help reduce the number of deaths related to breast cancer, and lead to earlier detection of cancerous tissue. Women interested in breast augmentation ought  to inform themselves about what potential effects breast implants may have on their mammogram, and what they can do to ensure the most accurate results.

Scientific research has found that breast augmentation makes it slightly more difficult to detect breast cancer during mammography. Mammograms detect pockets of dense tissue within the breast, and saline or silicone implants can hide this tissue. However, this does not mean that women with breast implants should avoid getting mammograms: they are still the most effective means of detecting breast cancer in its early stages.

Instead, women should take the following steps:

• Get your mammograms from a clinic that has experience screening women with implants.
• Inform the clinic that you have had breast augmentation when you make the appointment, and again when you arrive at the office.
• Make sure the radiologist and technician have experience doing mammograms on women with breast augmentation.
• For a few days after the mammogram, check your breasts for any change in shape or solidity. There is a small chance that the procedure may cause an implant to rupture.

If you are considering breast augmentation but want to know more about the risks and benefits, then call 703-742-8004 or use the form on the left side of the page to make an appointment with New Image Plastic Surgery Associates today! Dr. Roberta Gartside is an award-winning plastic surgeon serving  McLean and the surrounding communities.