Having breast implants often raises questions about the mammogram process, including their effectiveness and potential impact on implants. This article clarifies how mammograms are performed for individuals with breast implants and addresses common concerns.
Why Mammograms Remain Crucial
Breast implants do not prevent breast cancer, making regular mammogram screenings equally important for individuals with implants. These screenings are the most effective tool for early detection, when treatment outcomes are better. Mammography can identify changes in breast tissue not noticeable through self-examination.
Current guidelines, such as those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40 for individuals at average risk, including those with implants. While implants do not increase cancer risk, they can sometimes obscure natural breast tissue on a mammogram. This necessitates specialized imaging approaches to visualize as much breast tissue as possible.
How the Mammogram Procedure Adapts
The mammogram procedure adapts for breast implants. Technologists use specialized techniques, often called “Eklund views” or implant displacement (ID) views. These additional images supplement the standard four views, typically resulting in eight images.
During an Eklund view, the technologist carefully pushes the breast implant back towards the chest wall. Simultaneously, the natural breast tissue is gently pulled forward and compressed. This maneuver helps separate the breast tissue from the implant, allowing clearer visualization of the mammary gland on X-ray images. The goal is to image as much native breast tissue as possible.
While mammogram compression can cause discomfort, implants do not necessarily mean increased pain. Technicians are trained to be gentle and adjust compression as needed. The risk of implant rupture during a properly performed mammogram is very low, as modern implants are designed to withstand significant pressure.
Understanding Potential Limitations and Supplementary Imaging
Despite specialized Eklund views, breast implants can still present limitations during mammography. The implant material can be dense and may obscure a portion of the breast tissue, making it challenging to visualize abnormalities, especially those directly behind the implant. This obscuring effect can reduce the mammogram’s ability to detect all lesions.
To address these limitations, supplementary imaging techniques may be recommended. Breast ultrasound is a common adjunct to mammography, offering better visualization of tissue adjacent to implants and helping distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images without compression and is useful for evaluating implant integrity, such as detecting silent ruptures. MRI can also be recommended for individuals with dense breasts or a high risk of breast cancer, independent of implant status.
Preparing for Your Mammogram
Careful preparation can help ensure a smooth mammogram experience when you have breast implants. It is advisable to inform the imaging facility about your implants when scheduling your appointment. This allows them to allocate sufficient time for the additional views and assign a technologist experienced in performing mammograms on patients with implants.
On the day of your appointment, wear comfortable clothing that allows you to easily remove your top and bra. It is also important to avoid applying deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, or powders to your underarms or breasts, as these products can contain metallic particles that may appear as artifacts on the mammogram images, potentially leading to misinterpretation. During the procedure, communicate any discomfort or concerns you may have to the technologist. Choosing a facility with a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence certification, which signifies adherence to high standards, can also be beneficial.