At her boutique plastic surgery practice in San Antonio, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jessica Belz guides each patient with care. She often receives questions about breast implants and mammography, and works hard to provide thorough education and ensure peace of mind.
The good news is that breast implants don’t prevent mammograms or breast cancer detection. However, they can make imaging a bit more complex. Learn more about the nuances below.
How Implants Affect Mammogram Imaging
Breast implants, whether placed above or below the chest muscle, can slightly obscure certain areas of breast tissue. This is why special techniques called “implant displacement views” are used during mammograms for women with implants. These views allow radiologists to better visualize the breast tissue surrounding the implant.
It’s important to inform your imaging provider ahead of time so they can tailor the exam accordingly. Most certified centers are experienced in screening patients with implants and will take the necessary precautions to obtain accurate results.
Do Implants Increase Breast Cancer Risk?
Current research does not show a link between breast implants and an increased breast cancer risk. In some cases, implants have actually helped patients detect lumps sooner. This is due to their placement under the breast tissue, which can make abnormalities more noticeable.
That said, there is a very rare form of cancer called BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) that has been linked to certain textured implants, not smooth ones. Dr. Belz uses only FDA-approved implants and discusses options thoroughly to ensure safety and peace of mind.
Proactive Breast Health with Implants
If you have implants — or plan to get them — here are a few tips to stay proactive about your breast health:
- Schedule routine mammograms with a center experienced in imaging augmented breasts.
- Inform your provider about your implants before any screening.
- Perform regular self-checks to stay familiar with how your breasts feel and look.
- Report any unusual changes to your doctor, such as swelling, pain, or lumps.
Schedule a Breast Implant Consult in San Antonio
If you’re exploring breast augmentation but have concerns about long-term breast health, Dr. Jessica Belz is here to help. With elite training, board certification, and a compassionate, personalized approach, she brings exceptional care to women in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Call 210-497-7100 to schedule your breast augmentation consultation.