Breast Implants and Breast Screening: How Are Mammography and Ultrasound Done?

A common question among women considering breast augmentation, or who already have implants, is how regular breast screening will be affected. Breast implants do not prevent breast cancer screening, but there are some specific points in how screening is planned and carried out. In this article we cover the topic in general terms.

Do implants prevent screening?

Women with implants should continue breast screening appropriate to their age and risk. An implant can make it harder to image part of the breast tissue on a mammogram, so radiology units use special techniques developed for people with implants. The screening schedule is based on age, family history and personal risk factors and is planned with the physician responsible for your breast health.

What to keep in mind for mammography

• Tell them in advance: always mention that you have implants when booking and before the scan, so the procedure can be planned accordingly.
• Special views: in addition to standard images, special positions may be used in which the implant is pushed back and the breast tissue drawn forward.
• Communicate about compression: let the technician know about any discomfort during the scan.
• Implant details: keeping your implant card or surgical information can help the radiologist.

The role of ultrasound and MRI

Breast ultrasound is often used as a complementary method, especially at younger ages and in dense breast tissue, and can help assess the tissue around the implant. Breast MRI is a detailed method that can assess both the breast tissue and the integrity of the implant. Which method is needed, and how often, is decided by a physician based on your situation.

Screening before surgery

For people planning breast augmentation, breast imaging may be requested before surgery depending on age and risk. This helps document the current situation and plan surgery safely. Continuing breast self-examination and reporting any newly noticed change to a physician without delay is also recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a mammogram rupture my implant?

Implant damage from compression during mammography is rare. Telling the team that you have implants ensures the scan is performed with the appropriate technique.

If I have implants, is ultrasound alone enough instead of a mammogram?

This depends on your age, breast tissue and risk profile. The methods often complement each other; your physician decides which are needed.

Does it matter whether the implant is under or over the muscle?

The placement plane can affect imaging to some extent, so it is helpful to pass your surgical details on to the radiologist.

For more information, visit our Breast augmentation page and our article on implant lifespan, and reach us via our contact page.

This article is for informational purposes only; a medical examination by a physician is required for diagnosis and treatment.