Breast Implant Mammography

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A common concern that breast augmentation and reconstruction patients have is how breast cancer screening works with implants. Implants do impede the mammogram process somewhat. However, having implants is not uncommon. Techniques have been developed and are currently used which allow for effective breast screening, even with implants. Why do breast implants impede breast cancer screening? Mammography is the standard method for breast cancer screening. This involves using low-energy X-rays to image the tissue inside the breast. The problem with breast implants is that the X-rays cannot penetrate them. The implants appear as a solid mass on the X-ray image. The tissue on the other side of the implant is invisible. Another issue involving breast implants is the scar tissue which can make taking the mammogram more difficult. Some women develop hard scar tissue around the shell of the implant. While the scar tissue is not an issue, the fact that there is a hard mass within the breast tissue makes manipulating the breast to get a good image more difficult.…show more content…
In a standard mammogram, the technician is going to take four pictures, two for each breast. This offers a complete picture of the breast tissue from different angles. This allows the specialist to see the entire breast and helps determine if there are any abnormalities present. With breast implants, the technician is going to need to take four additional pictures, again two for each breast. These extra pictures involve implant displacement. Literally, pulling the breast tissue forward while pushing the implant back. This offers a better image of the tissue in the front part of the breast. This procedure can be uncomfortable for the patient. But, like the standard mammogram images, the discomfort is short-lived, and dissipates quickly. Is the risk of breast cancer increased with

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