- 4 Common questions about mammography with prosthesis
- 1. Can the prosthesis impair the test result?
- 2. Can mammography damage the prosthesis?
- 3. Is there a greater risk of cancer for having an implant?
- 4. Where can I get a mammogram?
Women who have breast implants can and should undergo a mammography exam annually from the age of 40, to identify whether there are changes in breast tissue that may be a first sign of cancer.
However, since the X-rays used in the exam are unable to properly penetrate the silicone prostheses, both silicone and saline, it may be more difficult to observe all breast tissue with the conventional technique, and it may be necessary for the technician to do more images than normal, to ensure that all fabric is evaluated.
Thus, it is advisable that when scheduling the exam, inform the clinic that breast implants are used, so that they can adapt the technique and even make minor adjustments to the device to obtain the best images.
4 Common questions about mammography with prosthesis
Most cases of women who have breast implants happen between the ages of 20 and 30, so it is normal for doubts about having a mammogram to appear only a few years later. Some of the most common questions are:
1. Can the prosthesis impair the test result?
Breast implants can actually damage the image captured in the mammography exam, so it is very important to notify the technician about the use of implants, so that he can adapt the technique and capture all the necessary images around the prosthesis.
Generally, prostheses placed in front of the pectoral muscle cause greater alteration in the images, since they are closer to the breast tissue.
2. Can mammography damage the prosthesis?
Mammography puts pressure on the breast, but there is generally no risk of damage to the breast prosthesis, as it can be moved up, down or sideways, avoiding putting pressure directly on the prosthesis.
In cases where the breast implant cannot be moved, the doctor may advise other types of tests that do not need to apply pressure to the breast, such as ultrasound or MRI, for example.
3. Is there a greater risk of cancer for having an implant?
The risk of cancer in a woman with a breast implant is the same as that of a woman without a prosthesis, and the main risk factors include having more than 40 years or cases of breast cancer in the family, especially in close relatives such as parents or siblings.
4. Where can I get a mammogram?
Mammography can be done in any clinic that specializes in this type of exam, however, when scheduling the exam, it is recommended to ask about the experience of the technicians in performing this exam in people with breast prosthesis, since there are technicians with more training to do this type of exam.
