Can Beast Augmentation Impact Future Breast Screenings or Mammograms?

By: Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

11/20/2024

If you're considering breast augmentation, you might wonder how it could affect future mammograms or breast cancer screenings. Don't worry — while breast implants can change how mammograms are performed, they won't stop you from getting accurate results. Radiologists use special techniques to work around implants and ensure your screenings are effective. Regular mammograms are key to keeping your breast health in check, so it's important to let your provider know about your implants ahead of time. If you're in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sean Kelishadi and the team at SSK Plastic Surgery are here to answer your questions and make sure you feel confident about every step of your care.

How does breast augmentation affect mammograms?

One of the most common questions patients have is whether breast implants interfere with mammograms. The good news is that breast implants don't prevent mammograms from being effective, but they can make the screening process a bit more complex. The presence of implants can obscure some breast tissue, which may make it more difficult to detect certain abnormalities. However, radiologists use specialized techniques, including:

  • Implant displacement views to push the implant aside
  • Targeted imaging to capture detailed views of specific areas
  • Adjusted angles to ensure the breast tissue is clearly visible

These techniques allow for thorough breast cancer screenings, even for patients with implants.

Is a mammogram performed differently after breast augmentation surgery?

Patients who have had breast augmentation surgery often require additional or modified mammogram views. After surgery at SSK Plastic Surgery, you may need specialized imaging techniques to ensure that all areas of your breast tissue are adequately examined.

Here's what to expect during your mammogram:

  • Radiologists will use implant displacement views
  • Technicians may ask you to adjust your position for better imaging
  • The process may take slightly longer than a standard mammogram

It's important to let your mammogram technician know about your implants beforehand so they can use proper techniques to get the most accurate results.

How often should I get a mammogram after breast augmentation?

Routine breast cancer screenings are just as important after breast augmentation surgery as they are for women without implants. In fact, you should start mammograms about six months after your breast augmentation procedure to allow time for healing.

Following that, general mammogram recommendations include:

  • Annual screenings starting at age 40
  • Earlier or more frequent screenings for high-risk individuals
  • Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider to assess your needs

At SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Kelishadi can help you determine the right mammogram schedule to support your long-term health.

What can I do to ensure accurate breast cancer screenings after breast augmentation?

To get the most accurate results possible from your mammogram after breast augmentation, it's essential to work with a radiology center experienced in imaging patients with implants. Be sure to inform your mammogram technician about the type and size of your implants so they can adjust the imaging techniques accordingly.

Steps to ensure accurate screenings include:

  • Choose a radiology center experienced with implants
  • Inform the technicians about your breast augmentation details
  • Ask your provider for recommendations on experienced radiologists

If you have concerns or need guidance, Dr. Kelishadi and the team at SSK Plastic Surgery are available to help you navigate this process.

Get trusted care for breast augmentation in Newport Beach, CA

If you're planning to undergo breast augmentation in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sean Kelishadi at SSK Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every aspect of your procedure and your long-term health. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discuss how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals while prioritizing your health.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.